improvisammes

Improvisammes is a term that emerged from the improvisational theatre community, particularly in relation to longer-form improvisational structures. It refers to a performance piece or scene that is improvised based on a specific theme, premise, or suggestion, but with a greater emphasis on developing a narrative arc, character relationships, and emotional depth than might be found in shorter, more game-based improv. The term itself suggests a "program" or "message" that is being improvised, implying a more structured or thematic intention behind the performance.

Unlike traditional improv games that often have explicit rules and quick resolutions, improvisammes aim to explore a situation or idea more thoroughly. This can involve exploring the consequences of a character's choices, delving into complex relationships, or building a world with a more detailed internal logic. The performers in an improvisamme are expected to collaborate closely, building upon each other's contributions to create a cohesive and engaging story. The success of an improvisamme often lies in its ability to surprise both the performers and the audience with its organic development and emergent meaning. While the term is not universally standardized, it is recognized within many improv circles as a descriptor for a particular style of long-form improvisation.