Shelving

Definition

Shelving is an improvisational technique where an actor or performer sets aside a particular idea, line, or character choice for potential later use, allowing the scene to continue flowing without disruption. This technique promotes spontaneity and creativity, as it frees actors to explore new directions while maintaining the possibility of revisiting previous thoughts or choices if they fit into the evolving narrative. It encourages flexibility in performance and collaboration among actors.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Shelving allows performers to keep the momentum of a scene while not discarding potentially valuable ideas that may fit better later.
2. Using shelving effectively requires strong listening skills and awareness of the ongoing dynamics between characters in a scene.
3. Actors who shelf ideas can enhance their performances by maintaining a sense of discovery and surprise during improvisation.
4. Shelving can be particularly useful in long-form improvisation, where themes and characters may re-emerge throughout the performance.
5. It promotes a collaborative environment, as performers feel comfortable suggesting and revisiting ideas without fear of disrupting the flow.

Review Questions

• How does shelving contribute to the overall flow and spontaneity of an improvisational performance?
  • Shelving plays a crucial role in maintaining the flow of an improvisational performance by allowing actors to set aside ideas that may not fit immediately but could enhance the scene later. This technique encourages spontaneity since performers can freely explore new directions without feeling pressured to stick to their original thoughts. By integrating shelving into their approach, actors create a dynamic atmosphere where unexpected moments can emerge while still having the option to revisit earlier concepts.
• In what ways does shelving intersect with other improvisational techniques like 'Yes, And' and offers?
  • Shelving intersects with 'Yes, And' and offers by creating a flexible space for actors to build upon each other's contributions while remaining open to future possibilities. When performers employ 'Yes, And', they actively accept ideas from their partners and expand on them, which can lead to the need for shelving when an idea is introduced that might work better later. Offers made during a scene can be shelved if they don't resonate at that moment but could enrich the narrative as it evolves.
• Evaluate how mastering shelving can affect an actor's improvisational skills and their ability to collaborate with others.
  • Mastering shelving significantly enhances an actor's improvisational skills by fostering adaptability and creativity. When actors are comfortable setting aside ideas, they become more confident in exploring the evolving nature of a scene without clinging to their original thoughts. This flexibility leads to stronger collaboration with fellow performers, as actors can contribute meaningfully to the narrative while respecting the dynamic interplay of ideas. Ultimately, this skill helps create richer performances that capture the unpredictability and excitement inherent in improvisation.

Related terms

Yes, And: A fundamental improvisational principle that encourages performers to accept what another actor has said and build upon it, fostering collaboration and creativity.

Blocking: The precise staging of actors in a performance, including their movements and positions on stage, which can be adjusted during improvisation.

Offer: Any idea, action, or piece of dialogue introduced by an actor in an improvisational scene that can be accepted or built upon by others.