Yes, And...

Improvising for lightness.

I’ve spent much of the last week taking a break from anything research-heavy or political. Instead, I relit my love of comedy, the absurd, and improvisational podcasts.

Comedy Bang Bang (formerly Comedy Deathray) was a podcast I listened to back in 2008. They’re still going strong. It’s been years since I listened to the ensemble’s “Yes and…” absurdist improvising.

The laughter in the background of the episodes is contagious and reflective of a group of comedians genuinely enjoying the process.

The guttural laughter these shows bring out of me is a welcome change to the “Mm, yes” reaction I get from science, politics, and music podcasts.

And all this has me thinking it would be a good idea to practice some “Yes and…” in real life. Lighten the mind, lift the spirits.

A practice like this would have my brain work in a different way. Like how learning about birdsong makes birdsong stand out clearer in the woods. You start noticing the identifying patterns different birds make.

Notes, phrases and patterns. A warbler’s rising trill.

Embodying characters is something I’ve done when writing poems, but never in a lighthearted way like comedy improvising.

So, here’s to the next few days and weeks of playing “Yes and…” whenever possible.

Have fun and keep it light! There’s enough to worry about but more to laugh at.

Looking for another podcast like Comedy Bang Bang? Check out Threedom.