“Yes, Please!” An Improvisational Framework for Contemporary Art Education

Abstract

Y es is a powerful word. It opens doors, affirms others, generates excitement, overcomes challenges, and banishes fear. When followed by words such as please or and, it creates a sense of desire or possibility. Since its inception, the phrase Yes, And has guided the pedagogy of The Second City, the Chicago-based improvisational theatre and training organization. Yes, And is a framework that asks participants to accept and expand on the offerings of their partners to maintain momentum and advance the scene. Rejecting an offering stops the action from progressing, creating a rift in the partners’ dynamic.1 This framework is just one of the parameters required to navigate the art form of improvisation successfully.