http://www.keithjohnstone.com

KEITH JOHNSTONE is one of the few internationally recognized authorities in the field of improvisation, great chunks of which he created, including Theatresports™, Maestro Impro© (or Micetro©  Impro), Gorilla Theatre™, and The Life Game©. Keith has written two best selling books about his Theatre and Improvisation theories and practices, in addition to several plays and short stories.
 

Theatresports™ is known worldwide. The Life Game©  was produced by London’s Improbable Theatre Co. (directed by Phelim McDermott). It toured Great Britain and the USA to great reviews.

His books Impro, and Impro For Storytellers, have been translated into many languages. His plays are produced world wide.

He founded the Theatre Machine Improvisation group in England in the 1960’s, touring Europe and North America , was the Co-founder and Artistic Director of The Loose Moose Theatre Company in Calgary, Canada in the 1970’s, 80’s and 90’s. He founded The International Theatresports™ Institute in 1998. If you are looking for Workshops to attend, go to the Workshops Page.

Keith’s ideas about improvisation, behaviour and performance appeal to a wide variety of groups.  From Actors to Psychotherapists, Improvisation companies to Theatre Schools and Companies, Business and Management training specialists and Humanities Research Institutes, Universities and Film Production Companies have invited him to come to teach them about his ideas, and how they might apply them.
 

Key Texts by Keith Johnstone

• Impro: Improvisation and the Theatre
  This influential book delves into the world of improvisation and its applications in theatre, presenting Johnstone’s insightful theories and practices. Translated into numerous languages, it continues to inspire actors, directors, and improvisation companies worldwide.

• Impro For Storytellers
  
  Another essential work by Keith Johnstone, focusing on the art of storytelling and the role of improvisation in the process. This book provides valuable perspectives for actors, theatre schools, and anyone interested in the creative potential of improvisational techniques.

Discussion Questions about Keith Johnstone

1. Influential Contributions: What are some of the most significant contributions made by Keith Johnstone to the field of improvisation and theatre?
2. Theatre Impact: How has Theatresports™ influenced the theatre world on a global scale, and what are some examples of its impact?
3. Literary Works: What key insights and theories does Keith Johnstone present in his books “Impro: Improvisation and the Theatre” and “Impro For Storytellers”? How have these works shaped the practices of actors, directors, and improvisation companies?
4. Teaching and Application: What are some diverse groups and industries that have been drawn to Keith Johnstone’s ideas about improvisation, behavior, and performance, and how have they applied these concepts in their respective fields?
5. International Influence: In what ways has Keith Johnstone’s work transcended linguistic and cultural boundaries, as evidenced by the global reach of his translated books and international workshops?

Influential Contributions

Keith Johnstone has made significant contributions to the field of improvisation and theatre, including the creation of influential improvisation formats such as Theatresports™, Maestro Impro©, Gorilla Theatre™, and The Life Game©. His insightful theories and practices have inspired actors, directors, improvisation companies, and various industries globally.

Theatre Impact

Theatresports™ has had a profound influence on the theatre world globally. It has sparked the creation of improvisation leagues and theaters worldwide, becoming a popular form of competitive improvisational theatre. Notably, The Life Game© received great reviews during its tour of Great Britain and the USA, showcasing the impact and appeal of Johnstone’s work on an international scale.

Literary Works

In his books “Impro: Improvisation and the Theatre” and “Impro For Storytellers,” Keith Johnstone presents invaluable insights into the world of improvisation and storytelling. These works continue to shape the practices of actors, directors, and improvisation companies globally. Translated into numerous languages, they serve as essential resources for those interested in the creative potential of improvisational techniques.

Teaching and Application

Keith Johnstone’s ideas about improvisation, behavior, and performance have resonated with diverse groups and industries, ranging from actors and psychotherapists to theatre schools, business and management training specialists, and film production companies. These groups have applied his concepts in various ways, demonstrating the wide-ranging appeal and applicability of his theories beyond traditional theatre settings.

International Influence

Keith Johnstone’s work has transcended linguistic and cultural boundaries, as evidenced by the global reach of his translated books and international workshops. His ideas have appealed to a wide variety of audiences and have been embraced by individuals and organizations across different countries and cultural contexts, underscoring the broad international influence of his contributions to the field of improvisation and theatre.