I’m listening to a new book. Yes, that reads as odd and
uncomfortable as it was to write. I listen to books these days, I guess. I
commute daily for work and always want to learn so I listen to podcasts and
most recently discovered Audible and listening to books. I’m currently
listening to Culture Code by Daniel Coyle. The entire book is about cultures of
successful companies or groups of people. I was fascinated to learn about an
improv group called the Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) which has produced many
well-known and successful actors and comedians. A structure used to train and
teach within the context of comedy improv groups was developed by Del Close and
given the fancy name of The Harold. It's a fascinating group and teaching
ideology and/or structure.
There are 11 rules Close
developed to guide The
Harold:
1. You
are all supporting actors
2. Always
check your impulses
3. Never
enter a scene unless you are needed
4. Save
your fellow actor, don’t worry about the piece
5. Your
prime responsibility is to support
6. Work
at the top of your brains at all times
7. Never
underestimate or condescend the audience
8. No
jokes
9. Trust;
trust your fellow actors to support you, trust them to come through if you lay
something heavy on them, trust yourself
10. Avoid
judging what is going down, except in terms of if it needs help, what can best
follow or how you can support it imaginatively if your support is needed
11. Listen
All the rules are designed and intended to tamp down selfish
instincts and to serve your fellow actor. I find it challenging to think of
applying this set of rules to any group I’m involved in, whether at work or a
group of friends or even a faith-based group AKA church. How is it we can apply
these simple rules to our own environments to improve the culture which drives
success?
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