Yes, you read that right, we host monthly improv at The Creative Jam!
I used to think improv was just about being funny.
Like, quick-witted, wacky-hat-wearing, “look at me I’m a toaster!” funny.
And don’t get me wrong—sometimes it is about being a toaster. But recently, I’ve realized it’s also about something way bigger.
It’s about “Yes, and.”
Those two words are the golden rule of improv.
You accept the idea your scene partner throws at you (“Yes”), and then you build on it (“and…”). No shutting it down. No “but actually.” No weird ego contests. Just… listening and adding.
It keeps the story going.
It keeps the energy moving.
And—here’s the kicker—it works just as well off stage.
In fact, Diary, I’ve started using “Yes, and” in real life.
And not just in the fun stuff.
I’ve used it in tense conversations.
I’ve used it with customers.
I’ve used it when my brain is trying to spiral into “this will never work” territory.
And I’ve especially used it when someone says something that makes me want to say “ARE YOU KIDDING ME” but I know I shouldn’t.
It’s like a tiny magic trick.
“Yes, I hear you. And here’s how we can move forward.”
“Yes, that’s frustrating. And we’ll figure it out.”
“Yes, I forgot to send the email. And I am deeply sorry and will now offer you cookies.”
It doesn’t mean you agree with everything.
It just means you’re willing to acknowledge what’s been said before adding your piece. And if that’s not a recipe for better relationships, I don’t know what is.
I’ve seen it soften arguments.
I’ve seen it spark creativity.
I’ve seen it build entire scenes in improv class out of thin air and weird ideas about haunted port-a-potties.
It’s generosity in sentence form.
So now I keep “Yes, and” in my back pocket.
Not because I’m trying to turn my life into a comedy sketch (although that does happen), but because I’ve finally learned that listening and contributing are not opposites—they’re dance partners.
And maybe, just maybe, if more of us lived with a little more “Yes, and,” the world would feel less like a debate club and more like a really weird, really supportive, slightly chaotic improv team.
Which honestly? Sounds perfect.
We host improv at The Creative Jam the first Wednesday of every month from 6:30 to 8:30 pm, and it’s honestly one of my favorite things. Because something magical happens when you get a room full of people who are willing to look a little silly together:
They laugh. A lot.
Like, happy tears and sore cheeks kind of laughing.
And let me be clear—this is not a comedy competition. You don’t need “performer energy” or a background in theater. If you can say “yes, and” and maybe wave your arms around in pretend slow motion, you’re qualified.
One improv session and you, too, will inherit the constant use of the phrase “yes, and”.
So if you feel like doing something that may be unproductive, but is secretly good for your soul—come join us at our Creative Jam Improv events! You wont regret it!
Love, paper-thin wisdom and stage-worthy sass,
Darcy
Don’t miss out… CLICK HERE to sign up for the next improv event at The Creative Jam!
