IMPRO - Improvisation for the Theatre
Keith Johnstone
Methuen Drama, 18.99 USD
This book, by the (European) father of Improv is not always an easy read, but it is definitely a must have. In his introduction Johnstone describes how he came about teaching Improv and that is an definite eye opener.
The book consists of 4 essays, on Status , Spontaneity , Storytelling and Mask theatre. Each essay starts off rather theoretically, and that is sometimes a bit of a rough read. But it does show Mr. Johnstone has pretty varied interests, as he does refer to tons of (rather old) scientific stuff on e.g. psychoanalysis, transcendence, you name it.
Towards the end, the chapters become more practical, although not all that many games are covered.
Particularly fascinating is the last chapter on Mask work.
See also Impro for Storytellers .
A beginning is the time for taking the most delicate case that balances are correct -- Princess Irulan, Manual of Muad`Dib