Character Creation & Physicality
📋 What it is
You build an improv character fast with the body and voice — a posture, a walk, a way of speaking.
🗣️ Coach says
In improv you have no costume, so your BODY makes the character. A hunched back, a bouncy walk, a slow deep voice — one strong physical choice instantly tells the audience who you are. Commit fully to the choice; a half-hearted character disappears.
🧠 Memory hook
Character = one strong body + voice choice, committed fully. The body IS the costume.
😂 Giggle
Why was the improv show always sold out?
Because the performers never scripted a bad review!
😲 Whoa!
Improvisers can create a totally new, recognisable character in under two seconds — just by changing how they stand and speak.
✅ Quick check: How does an improviser show a character without a costume?
Say your answer out loud first — then reveal.
Through the body and voice — posture, walk and way of speaking — committed to fully.
Physical and vocal choices carry characterisation when there is no costume.
🧪 Try it! (2 minutes)
Walk across the room three ways: tall and proud, tired and heavy, quick and nervous. Feel three characters appear.