Abstract
The following MFA exegesis details a new approach to improvised theatre called the Coaching Codes. My aim for this new approach is to provide a more consistent, egalitarian, and rigorously theatrical approach for a perceived new generation of improv groups in Aotearoa. I was inspired by the descriptive, actionable, and codified Viewpoints method of ensemble training. I have used a Practice as Research methodology to research, design and implement my approach with various groups of research-participant performers. In designing the Coaching Codes I asked: how can we create a compositional approach in the style of the Viewpoints for the preparation and performance of improvised theatre? This quest was comprised of three tasks: Assessing and selecting the most valuable guiding principles of improvised theatre from existing texts and traditions, condensing them into a concise set of descriptive and actionable codes, and testing the effects of the code-based approach on a group of improvisors. My observations on the effects of the new approach are analysed across Individual, Group, and Performance categories. My findings stress the importance of group culture in improv, especially the elements of communication, consensus, and intentionality.
The exegesis is supported by video material of the performances that were a culmination of the three workshop series, Improtopia, Rant Night, and Story Go!, plus a recording of a practical workshop which captures a sample of how I explored the Codes with the group through improvisation exercises.