Here is a novel concept: “Don’t prepare, just show up.” That is improv professor Patricia Ryan Madson’s advice and the subtitle of her book, Improv Wisdom. In short, simple chapters, Madson sets forth 13 “maxims” for living, based on her experience with improv. Her basic premise is that life IS improv, and that in life, as in improv, we need to give up control, work with what and who is there, pay attention, add something to the story now (there is no time to figure out the ”perfect” next line), support our fellow actors, be willing to make mistakes and enjoy the process. In short, treat life like the improvisation it really is.
Madson’s straightforward style and sense of humor make this a quick read, but you will likely want to return and read it more slowly to digest its wisdom. I recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a path of greater ease and joy. Don’t worry, you don’t have to give up planning – you just have to be willing to enjoy what happens along the way, and be willing to change the plan if something better turns up!
Few things please an author more than to read a review that shows how much a reader understands her work. Thank you for taking the time to write this and share it on your blog. It makes me happy to think that my little book is helping. May all of your life’s improvisations turn out well.
Warm thanks,
Patricia Ryan Madson