Bristol Improv Theatre’s Unscripted Players Scheme (UPS) is an initiative that champions fresh voices and bold ideas in the world of improvisation. Each year, two pitches are selected from community submissions to be developed into full-length improv shows. With a £100 budget, free rehearsal space, and support from the theatre, the scheme provides a platform for emerging directors to bring their visions to life.
This year, the chosen pitches are Jack Greenwood’s The Other Canterbury Tales and Heidi Gautrey’s Lawful Disorder. These two shows promise to captivate audiences with their imaginative storytelling and creative execution.
The Other Canterbury Tales – Jack Greenwood
Jack’s The Other Canterbury Tales transports us to the mediaeval era with a whimsical tale of strangers sharing stories during a pilgrimage. Set in the 1300s, this dark fantasy will include plenty of humour, weaving an anthology of improvised tales inspired by audience suggestions.
Jack conceived the idea during a bus ride after receiving the UP scheme application email. “I started filling out the pitch form right there on the bus,” he explained. Drawing on his experience as a writer, Jack used the Pretty Flower improv structure as a loose framework for the show, inspired by his love of short story collections.
Jack’s directing approach is collaborative and experimental. “You can have a methodology, but each group changes it depending on what they need,” Jack said. Early rehearsals focused on trying different methods, with the group gradually shaping the show by the third week.
One of the standout moments in rehearsal was the “Vibe Experiment,” a creative exercise designed to explore how cast members are naturally perceived by others. The group met at the Galleries (a local Bristol shopping mall), where each performer took turns sitting on a bench, trying to remain as neutral as possible. Meanwhile, other cast members approached passersby and asked them to fill out a form describing the seated performer using adjectives.
Each performer received feedback from nine strangers, revealing perceptions they may not have considered before. The results were shared individually with the cast, allowing them to reflect on how their natural demeanour or “vibe” might inform their characters. Some chose to lean into these traits, while others decided to challenge typecasting and explore new dynamics. The exercise not only added depth to the performances but also highlighted the subtle interplay between personal energy and character development in improv.
Lawful Disorder – Heidi Gautrey
Heidi Gautrey’s Lawful Disorder delivers courtroom drama and crime-solving intrigue. Inspired by the procedural format of Law and Order, this improvised legal thriller involves the audience in creating the mystery. After discovering a crucial piece of evidence, audience suggestions shape the investigation, leading to a climactic courtroom scene.
As a new fan of Law and Order, Heidi noticed its formulaic yet engaging structure. This inspired them to create a show centred around a big investigation room, with leads and suspects tracked on a whiteboard. “The show is anchored by one central scene,” they explained, “but the story branches out and keeps returning to it.”
Although Heidi has directed student theatre and a piece at the Edinburgh Fringe, this is their first time directing improv. Their focus has been on ensuring the process works for the cast. “Whenever I come to a project I’m directing, my creative direction is formed by communication with my cast. I’m really interested in making something that works for the people involved.” they shared.
To ensure the show remains inclusive and welcoming for all, the group has deliberately moved away from the often dark themes of Law & Order, embracing instead quirky and light-hearted mysteries. In one rehearsal, they explored the question, “Why are all the sandwiches the same?” which led to the concept of the “Sandwich Police.” Come and watch the future of investigative drama in the making!
Why These Shows Matter
The Unscripted Players Scheme reflects Bristol Improv Theatre’s commitment to nurturing creativity and collaboration in the wider community, beyond existing groups or shows. Jack and Heidi have taken bold ideas and worked closely with their casts to craft two dynamic and original shows.
Jack’s journey explores the art of storytelling through humour and experimentation, while Heidi’s work combines the structure of a procedural drama with the spontaneity of improv. Both shows demonstrate the endless possibilities of improv and the talent within our community.
Catch the Shows!
Don’t miss The Other Canterbury Tales and Lawful Disorder at Bristol Improv Theatre. These two unique productions showcase the creative brilliance of our local improv scene, and are guaranteed to provide a fun evening with a variety of entertainment.
Let the stories (and mysteries) unfold!
Book your tickets here: https://improvtheatre.co.uk/upcoming-show/unscripted-players-big-autumn-show-2/2024-11-23/
