http://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/ The Backline Canadian Comedy Award winners Rob Norman and Adam Cawley discuss weekly improv-based topics based on a theme. The Backline https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2022/06/Backline_Logo-Sonar-Stamp-1.jpg http://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/ Sonar Network en-CA Tue, 05 May 2026 17:01:40 +0000 Tue, 05 May 2026 17:01:45 +0000 info@thesonarnetwork.com () info@thesonarnetwork.com (Tech Support) 30 education arts 28ca9d6a-464c-5294-ac8a-a52baf960095 yes (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0) Rob Norman Adam Cawley Canadian Comedy Award winners Rob Norman and Adam Cawley discuss weekly improv-based topics based on a theme. The Sonar Network no info@thesonarnetwork.com episodic 1 Support the show! tv-14 Toronto, ON daily 1 The Day of All Days https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/the-day-of-all-days/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/the-day-of-all-days info@thesonarnetwork.com() Wed, 22 Apr 2026 14:41:59 +0000 This week, Rob and Adam turn their attention to the concept “Day of All Days.” It’s a phrase that suggests high stakes and life-changing moments, yet so many of the most memorable scenes revolve around the smallest, most ordinary situations. Why do mundane premises so often lead to the biggest laughs? And what does “importance” really look like in an improvised scene? Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week, Rob and Adam turn their attention to the concept “Day of All Days.” It’s a phrase that suggests high stakes and life-changing moments, yet so many of the most memorable scenes revolve around the smallest, most ordinary situations. Why do mundane premises so often lead to the biggest laughs? And what does “importance” really look like in an improvised scene?

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]]> 414 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 414 The Day of All Days info@thesonarnetwork.com full 3431 This week, Rob and Adam turn their attention to the concept “Day of All Days.” It’s a phrase that suggests high stakes and life-changing moments, yet so many of the most memorable scenes revolve around the smallest, most ordinary situations. Why do mundane premises so often lead to the biggest laughs? And what does “importance” really look like in an improvised scene? Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Underwhelmed https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/underwhelmed/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/underwhelmed info@thesonarnetwork.com() Wed, 15 Apr 2026 14:01:44 +0000 This week, Rob and Adam explore how to navigate scenes with a partner who brings a limited emotional range. Together they break down the difference between performing emotion and truly embodying it, and offer practical ways to create better scenes using radical acceptance. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week, Rob and Adam explore how to navigate scenes with a partner who brings a limited emotional range. Together they break down the difference between performing emotion and truly embodying it, and offer practical ways to create better scenes using radical acceptance.

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]]> 413 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 413 Underwhelmed info@thesonarnetwork.com full 4020 This week, Rob and Adam explore how to navigate scenes with a partner who brings a limited emotional range. Together they break down the difference between performing emotion and truly embodying it, and offer practical ways to create better scenes using radical acceptance. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Lost https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/lost/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/lost info@thesonarnetwork.com() Wed, 08 Apr 2026 14:20:58 +0000 In this episode of The Backline, Rob and Adam explore why performers lose their footing, from overthinking to disconnection, and share practical ways to stay present, reconnect, and move forward without spiraling into shame when you get lost in a scene.  Also, a question about basketball, bullying anyone about anything, and the special relationship between a man and his dragon. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ In this episode of The Backline, Rob and Adam explore why performers lose their footing, from overthinking to disconnection, and share practical ways to stay present, reconnect, and move forward without spiraling into shame when you get lost in a scene.  Also, a question about basketball, bullying anyone about anything, and the special relationship between a man and his dragon.

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]]> 412 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 412 Lost info@thesonarnetwork.com full 3737 In this episode of The Backline, Rob and Adam explore why performers lose their footing, from overthinking to disconnection, and share practical ways to stay present, reconnect, and move forward without spiraling into shame when you get lost in a scene.  Also, a question about basketball, bullying anyone about anything, and the special relationship between a man and his dragon. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Learning but Bored https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/learning-but-bored/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/learning-but-bored info@thesonarnetwork.com() Wed, 01 Apr 2026 13:17:06 +0000 Advanced improv can be tricky—students freeze, forget the game, or feel overwhelmed by structure. This week Rob and Adam discuss practical strategies to reduce overload, and motivate students who may never perform but just want to have fun. Also, "Missiles", door-Ohs, and your new favourite mantra "It's just a body". Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Advanced improv can be tricky—students freeze, forget the game, or feel overwhelmed by structure. This week Rob and Adam discuss practical strategies to reduce overload, and motivate students who may never perform but just want to have fun. Also, “Missiles”, door-Ohs, and your new favourite mantra “It’s just a body”.

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]]> 411 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 411 Learning but Bored info@thesonarnetwork.com full 3467 Advanced improv can be tricky—students freeze, forget the game, or feel overwhelmed by structure. This week Rob and Adam discuss practical strategies to reduce overload, and motivate students who may never perform but just want to have fun. Also, "Missiles", door-Ohs, and your new favourite mantra "It's just a body". Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Awareness VS. Agency https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/awareness-vs-agency/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/awareness-vs-agency info@thesonarnetwork.com() Tue, 24 Mar 2026 14:32:05 +0000 This week Rob and Adam discuss how to create interiority in a character, how focussing too much on heightening can create undesired outcomes, and how intentionally burning your own Game of the Scene can make for a more interesting, and psychologically complex character. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week Rob and Adam discuss how to create interiority in a character, how focussing too much on heightening can create undesired outcomes, and how intentionally burning your own Game of the Scene can make for a more interesting, and psychologically complex character.

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]]> 410 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 410 Awareness VS. Agency info@thesonarnetwork.com full 3202 This week Rob and Adam discuss how to create interiority in a character, how focussing too much on heightening can create undesired outcomes, and how intentionally burning your own Game of the Scene can make for a more interesting, and psychologically complex character. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Is it a Scam? https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/is-it-a-scam/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/is-it-a-scam info@thesonarnetwork.com() Tue, 10 Mar 2026 10:13:44 +0000 This week, Rob and Adam discuss shady improv classes, incompetent improv teachers, and what to do when you’re dissatisfied with your experience in the classroom. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week, Rob and Adam discuss shady improv classes, incompetent improv teachers, and what to do when you’re dissatisfied with your experience in the classroom.

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]]> 409 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 409 Is it a Scam? info@thesonarnetwork.com full 2520 This week, Rob and Adam discuss shady improv classes, incompetent improv teachers, and what to do when you’re dissatisfied with your experience in the classroom. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ A Surprising Way to Teach Improv https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/a-surprising-way-to-teach-improv/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/a-surprising-way-to-teach-improv info@thesonarnetwork.com() Tue, 03 Mar 2026 05:22:55 +0000 This week Rob and Adam discuss different methods of teaching improv, what's the best way for a teacher to get their ideas across, and how context changes a teacher's lesson plan. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week Rob and Adam discuss different methods of teaching improv, what’s the best way for a teacher to get their ideas across, and how context changes an improv teacher’s lesson plan.

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]]> 408 408 A Surprising Way to Teach Improv info@thesonarnetwork.com full 1577 This week Rob and Adam discuss different methods of teaching improv, what's the best way for a teacher to get their ideas across, and how context changes a teacher's lesson plan. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Is this the End of the Second City e.t.c? https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/is-this-the-end-of-the-second-city-etc/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/is-this-the-end-of-the-second-city-etc info@thesonarnetwork.com() Mon, 23 Feb 2026 19:09:17 +0000 This week, Rob and Adam unpack a major shake-up at The Second City. Starting January 22, 2026, the historic e.t.c. Stage shifts from scripted sketch to Improv Supernova, a fully improvised show—the first change in its 43-year history. They explore why the move makes sense now and what it means for the future of Second City, improv, and sketch comedy. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week, Rob and Adam unpack a major shake-up at The Second City. Starting January 22, 2026, the historic e.t.c. Stage shifts from scripted sketch to Improv Supernova, a fully improvised show—the first change in its 43-year history. They explore why the move makes sense now and what it means for the future of Second City, improv, and sketch comedy.

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]]> 407 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 407 Is this the End of the Second City e.t.c? info@thesonarnetwork.com full 3803 This week, Rob and Adam unpack a major shake-up at The Second City. Starting January 22, 2026, the historic e.t.c. Stage shifts from scripted sketch to Improv Supernova, a fully improvised show—the first change in its 43-year history. They explore why the move makes sense now and what it means for the future of Second City, improv, and sketch comedy. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Shame, Scene Hogs, and Everything Else https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/shame-scene-hogs-and-everything-else/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/shame-scene-hogs-and-everything-else info@thesonarnetwork.com() Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:13:32 +0000 Rob and Adam answer three questions from a single listener.  This week they discuss shame, greedy scene partners, and how to strengthen your comedic muscles offstage. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Rob and Adam answer three questions from a single listener.  This week they discuss shame, greedy scene partners, and how to strengthen your comedic muscles offstage.

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]]> 406 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 406 Shame, Scene Hogs, and Everything Else info@thesonarnetwork.com full 3780 Rob and Adam answer three questions from a single listener.  This week they discuss shame, greedy scene partners, and how to strengthen your comedic muscles offstage. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ To Care or Not to Care https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/to-care-or-not-to-care/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/to-care-or-not-to-care info@thesonarnetwork.com() Thu, 12 Feb 2026 13:11:24 +0000 This week Rob and Adam discuss the delicate balance between telling jokes and caring about the reality of the scene, when it makes sense to care in your scene, and how to start investing in the reality more. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

]]> 405 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 405 To Care or Not to Care info@thesonarnetwork.com full 3160 This week Rob and Adam discuss the delicate balance between telling jokes and caring about the reality of the scene, when it makes sense to care in your scene, and how to start investing in the reality more. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Fresh Start https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/fresh-start/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/fresh-start info@thesonarnetwork.com() Thu, 05 Feb 2026 19:09:11 +0000 We all make mistakes—but how do we recover when they happen onstage? Is there a magic phrase an improviser can use to win the audience back? This week, Rob and Adam discuss the best strategies for recovering after bombing a scene. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ We all make mistakes—but how do we recover when they happen onstage? Is there a magic phrase an improviser can use to win the audience back? This week, Rob and Adam discuss the best strategies for recovering after bombing a scene.

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]]> 404 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 404 Fresh Start info@thesonarnetwork.com full 2667 We all make mistakes—but how do we recover when they happen onstage? Is there a magic phrase an improviser can use to win the audience back? This week, Rob and Adam discuss the best strategies for recovering after bombing a scene. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ The Backline Holiday Special 2025 https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/the-backline-holiday-special-2025/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/the-backline-holiday-special-2025 info@thesonarnetwork.com() Tue, 23 Dec 2025 10:09:56 +0000 This week Rob and Adam reflect on the year and give spread thanks to improv communities across the world: Ann Arbor, Chris the Cameraman, mentorship from Greg Yates, and never giving up on the dream of a Magnet House team. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week Rob and Adam reflect on the year and give spread thanks to improv communities across the world: Ann Arbor, Chris the Cameraman, mentorship from Greg Yates, and never giving up on the dream of a Magnet House team.

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]]> 403 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 403 The Backline Holiday Special 2025 info@thesonarnetwork.com full 2162 This week Rob and Adam reflect on the year and give spread thanks to improv communities across the world: Ann Arbor, Chris the Cameraman, mentorship from Greg Yates, and never giving up on the dream of a Magnet House team. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Bulldozer https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/bulldozer/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/bulldozer info@thesonarnetwork.com() Thu, 11 Dec 2025 22:27:49 +0000 In this episode, Rob and Adam dive into the challenges of handling heavy offers, navigating information overload, and figuring out how to deal with unexpected “bulldozers” that can derail an improv scene. They break down practical strategies, share examples, and explore how to keep scenes playful, collaborative, and fun. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ In this episode, Rob and Adam dive into the challenges of handling heavy offers, navigating information overload, and figuring out how to deal with unexpected “bulldozers” that can derail an improv scene. They break down practical strategies, share examples, and explore how to keep scenes playful, collaborative, and fun.

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]]> 402 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 402 Bulldozer info@thesonarnetwork.com full 3143 In this episode, Rob and Adam dive into the challenges of handling heavy offers, navigating information overload, and figuring out how to deal with unexpected “bulldozers” that can derail an improv scene. They break down practical strategies, share examples, and explore how to keep scenes playful, collaborative, and fun. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Touch the Lamassu! https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/touch-the-lamassu/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/touch-the-lamassu info@thesonarnetwork.com() Mon, 08 Dec 2025 13:15:32 +0000 This week, Rob and Adam tackle a tricky question: does your improv teacher have secrets to share, or are they full of it? With countless improv styles—many of them contradicting each other—it can be tough to know what to believe. Rob and Adam explore how improv ideas get passed down, why some “rules” stick, and how performers can figure out what’s actually useful. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week, Rob and Adam tackle a tricky question: does your improv teacher have secrets to share, or are they full of it? With countless improv styles—many of them contradicting each other—it can be tough to know what to believe. Rob and Adam explore how improv ideas get passed down, why some “rules” stick, and how performers can figure out what’s actually useful.

Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

]]> 401 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 401 Touch the Lamassu! info@thesonarnetwork.com full 3785 This week, Rob and Adam tackle a tricky question: does your improv teacher have secrets to share, or are they full of it? With countless improv styles—many of them contradicting each other—it can be tough to know what to believe. Rob and Adam explore how improv ideas get passed down, why some “rules” stick, and how performers can figure out what’s actually useful. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ From the Classroom to the Stage https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/from-the-classroom-to-the-stage/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/from-the-classroom-to-the-stage info@thesonarnetwork.com() Mon, 01 Dec 2025 15:48:43 +0000 This week Rob and Adam discuss the transitioning your skills from the classroom to the stage. Why is it so hard to do what works in an exercise, onstage in front of an audience? Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week Rob and Adam discuss the transitioning your skills from the classroom to the stage. Why is it so hard to do what works in an exercise, onstage in front of an audience?

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]]> 400 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 400 From the Classroom to the Stage info@thesonarnetwork.com full 3434 This week Rob and Adam discuss the transitioning your skills from the classroom to the stage. Why is it so hard to do what works in an exercise, onstage in front of an audience? Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Spark-less https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/spark-less/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/spark-less info@thesonarnetwork.com() Fri, 21 Nov 2025 23:00:01 +0000 Rob and Adam talk about navigating your improv career, dealing with self-doubt, and having honest conversations with yourself about what's possible and what is probable. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Rob and Adam talk about navigating your improv career, dealing with self-doubt, and having honest conversations with yourself about what’s possible and what is probable.

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]]> 399 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 399 Spark-less info@thesonarnetwork.com full 3052 Rob and Adam talk about navigating your improv career, dealing with self-doubt, and having honest conversations with yourself about what's possible and what is probable. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Intelligence VS. Integrity https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/intelligence-vs-integrity/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/intelligence-vs-integrity info@thesonarnetwork.com() Fri, 14 Nov 2025 10:48:31 +0000 This week, Rob and Adam dsicuss the time-honoured tradition of playing to the "Top of their Intelligence" by having a very dumb discussion about characters, point of view, and what amount of "smart" are you required to bring with you onstage. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week, Rob and Adam dsicuss the time-honoured tradition of playing to the “Top of their Intelligence” by having a very dumb discussion about characters, point of view, and what amount of “smart” are you required to bring with you onstage.

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]]> 398 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 398 Intelligence VS. Integrity info@thesonarnetwork.com full 2731 This week, Rob and Adam dsicuss the time-honoured tradition of playing to the "Top of their Intelligence" by having a very dumb discussion about characters, point of view, and what amount of "smart" are you required to bring with you onstage. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Offensive https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/offensive/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/offensive info@thesonarnetwork.com() Tue, 04 Nov 2025 16:05:41 +0000 Improv is not historically known for being offensive, but sometimes improvisers cross the line.  Why is comedy so frequently associated with offense?  Does comedy need to be provocative to be funny? What do you do if you offend your audience? All this and more. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Improv is not historically known for being offensive, but sometimes improvisers cross the line.  Why is comedy so frequently associated with offense?  Does comedy need to be provocative to be funny? What do you do if you offend your audience? All this and more.

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]]> 397 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 397 Offensive info@thesonarnetwork.com full 3493 Improv is not historically known for being offensive, but sometimes improvisers cross the line.  Why is comedy so frequently associated with offense?  Does comedy need to be provocative to be funny? What do you do if you offend your audience? All this and more. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Who, What, Where – but When? https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/who-what-where-but-when/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/who-what-where-but-when info@thesonarnetwork.com() Tue, 21 Oct 2025 16:32:00 +0000 This week Rob and Adam chat about framing scenes prior, during, or after the action. Do scenes always need to start in the middle? What's the best way to execute a tag-in? If you mention an event, does it always have to happen onstage? Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week Rob and Adam chat about framing scenes prior, during, or after the action. Do scenes always need to start in the middle? What’s the best way to execute a tag-in? If you mention an event, does it always have to happen onstage?

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]]> 396 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 396 Who, What, Where – but When? info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 3251 This week Rob and Adam chat about framing scenes prior, during, or after the action. Do scenes always need to start in the middle? What's the best way to execute a tag-in? If you mention an event, does it always have to happen onstage? Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Platforms, Tilts, and Improvising Action https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/platforms-tilts-and-improvising-action/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/platforms-tilts-and-improvising-action info@thesonarnetwork.com() Tue, 21 Oct 2025 16:31:00 +0000 This week Rob and Adam, discuss platforms and tilts for improv scenes, how sketch influences scenes, and how to create action without blindsiding their scene partner. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week Rob and Adam, discuss platforms and tilts for improv scenes, how sketch influences scenes, and how to create action without blindsiding their scene partner.

Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

]]> 395 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 395 Platforms, Tilts, and Improvising Action info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 3806 This week Rob and Adam, discuss platforms and tilts for improv scenes, how sketch influences scenes, and how to create action without blindsiding their scene partner. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Technique https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/technique/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/technique info@thesonarnetwork.com() Tue, 07 Oct 2025 15:30:00 +0000 The improv world is full of technique.  What techniques help individual improvisers? What techniques benefit the theatre you play at? Are there techniques you should embrace? Or some that you should avoid? Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ The improv world is full of technique.  What techniques help individual improvisers? What techniques benefit the theatre you play at? Are there techniques you should embrace? Or some that you should avoid?

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]]> 394 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 394 Technique info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 325 The improv world is full of technique.  What techniques help individual improvisers? What techniques benefit the theatre you play at? Are there techniques you should embrace? Or some that you should avoid? Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Tethering https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/tethering/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/tethering info@thesonarnetwork.com() Tue, 30 Sep 2025 16:21:00 +0000 This week Rob and Adam discuss tethering: the act of linking your emotional state to what your partner is doing.  Also, some great questions about tethering from our friend Martin in Estonia. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ his week Rob and Adam discuss tethering: the act of linking your emotional state to what your partner is doing.  Also, some great questions about tethering from our friend Martin in Estonia.

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]]> 393 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 393 Tethering info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 3206 This week Rob and Adam discuss tethering: the act of linking your emotional state to what your partner is doing.  Also, some great questions about tethering from our friend Martin in Estonia. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Questions Only – September 2025 https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/questions-only-september-2025/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/questions-only-september-2025 info@thesonarnetwork.com() Wed, 24 Sep 2025 15:48:00 +0000 The truth is out! After a tumultuous three weeks apart, Rob and Adam return to the podcast to air thier grievances, resolve differences, and answer your questions about improv. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ The truth is out! After a tumultuous three weeks apart, Rob and Adam return to the podcast to air thier grievances, resolve differences, and answer your questions about improv.

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]]> 392 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 392 Questions Only – September 2025 info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 2830 The truth is out! After a tumultuous three weeks apart, Rob and Adam return to the podcast to air thier grievances, resolve differences, and answer your questions about improv. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Competition is the Thief of Joy https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/competition-is-the-thief-of-joy/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/competition-is-the-thief-of-joy info@thesonarnetwork.com() Fri, 19 Sep 2025 02:35:00 +0000 This week Rob sits down with one of the organizers of the Robin Hood Improv Festival in Nottingham, Lloydie, to discuss competition, inclusion, and finding community in the face of rejection. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week Rob sits down with one of the organizers of the Robin Hood Improv Festival in Nottingham, Lloydie, to discuss competition, inclusion, and finding community in the face of rejection.

Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

]]> 391 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 391 Competition is the Thief of Joy info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 2439 This week Rob sits down with one of the organizers of the Robin Hood Improv Festival in Nottingham, Lloydie, to discuss competition, inclusion, and finding community in the face of rejection. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Game Revisited https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/game-revisited/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/game-revisited info@thesonarnetwork.com() Wed, 10 Sep 2025 03:57:00 +0000 This week Rob and Adam debate the merits of Game of the Scene, pulling premise, and how to create meaningful patterns that bolster your longform show. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week Rob and Adam debate the merits of Game of the Scene, pulling premise, and how to create meaningful patterns that bolster your longform show.

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]]> 390 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 390 Game Revisited info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 3634 This week Rob and Adam debate the merits of Game of the Scene, pulling premise, and how to create meaningful patterns that bolster your longform show. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Get Connected https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/get-connected/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/get-connected info@thesonarnetwork.com() Wed, 03 Sep 2025 09:45:00 +0000 This week Rob and Adam discuss connection, rapport, relationships onstage and offstage. Also, is it possible to have a meaningful connection with a stranger onstage? Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week Rob and Adam discuss connection, rapport, relationships onstage and offstage. Also, is it possible to have a meaningful connection with a stranger onstage?

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]]> 389 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 389 Get Connected info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 2864 This week Rob and Adam discuss connection, rapport, relationships onstage and offstage. Also, is it possible to have a meaningful connection with a stranger onstage? Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Form Follows Function https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/?post_type=podcasts&p=419 https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/form-follows-function info@thesonarnetwork.com() Wed, 27 Aug 2025 14:55:00 +0000 This week Rob and Adam discuss improv forms!  What makes a good improv form? When does your improv format get in the way of your scenes? Also, the beloved format "Darwin's Christmas Tree" returns to the podcast! Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week Rob and Adam discuss improv forms!  What makes a good improv form? When does your improv format get in the way of your scenes? Also, the beloved format “Darwin’s Christmas Tree” returns to the podcast!

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]]> 388 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 388 Form Follows Function info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 3256 This week Rob and Adam discuss improv forms!  What makes a good improv form? When does your improv format get in the way of your scenes? Also, the beloved format "Darwin's Christmas Tree" returns to the podcast! Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ There’s Nothing More Boring Than Creativity https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/theres-nothing-more-boring-than-creativity/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/theres-nothing-more-boring-than-creativity info@thesonarnetwork.com() Tue, 19 Aug 2025 16:46:00 +0000 This week, Rob and Adam dive into where improv ideas come from, how to wrestle with creative blocks, and why the supposedly “whimsical” act of creating can be surprisingly… boring. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week, Rob and Adam dive into where improv ideas come from, how to wrestle with creative blocks, and why the supposedly “whimsical” act of creating can be surprisingly… boring.

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]]> 387 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 387 There’s Nothing More Boring Than Creativity info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 3392 This week, Rob and Adam dive into where improv ideas come from, how to wrestle with creative blocks, and why the supposedly “whimsical” act of creating can be surprisingly… boring. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Do You Like Me? https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/do-you-like-me/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/do-you-like-me info@thesonarnetwork.com() Mon, 18 Aug 2025 14:26:00 +0000 There's nothing more unfair when an audience picks their collective favourite onstage.  How important is it to be likable onstage? What can you do to stay on the good side of a discerning crowd?  Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ There’s nothing more unfair when an audience picks their collective favourite onstage.  How important is it to be likable onstage? What can you do to stay on the good side of a discerning crowd?  And most importantly, is there any path back towards the audience’s good graces?

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]]> 386 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 386 Do You Like Me? info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 3739 There's nothing more unfair when an audience picks their collective favourite onstage.  How important is it to be likable onstage? What can you do to stay on the good side of a discerning crowd?  Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Classroom the to the Stage https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/classroom-the-to-the-stage/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/classroom-the-to-the-stage info@thesonarnetwork.com() Thu, 07 Aug 2025 19:51:00 +0000 This week Rob and Adam discuss the careful art of taking lessons from the classroom and applying them to the stage.  Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

]]> 385 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 385 Classroom the to the Stage info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 3597 This week Rob and Adam discuss the careful art of taking lessons from the classroom and applying them to the stage.  Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ How Do I Know If I’m Getting Better? https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/how-do-i-know-if-im-getting-better/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/how-do-i-know-if-im-getting-better info@thesonarnetwork.com() Thu, 31 Jul 2025 18:43:00 +0000 This week Rob and Adam discuss personal growth, improvement, and developing yourself throughout your improv career. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week Rob and Adam discuss personal growth, improvement, and developing yourself throughout your improv career.

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]]> 384 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 384 How Do I Know If I’m Getting Better? info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 3542 This week Rob and Adam discuss personal growth, improvement, and developing yourself throughout your improv career. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Active Choice VS. Action Choice https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/active-choice-vs-action-choice/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/active-choice-vs-action-choice info@thesonarnetwork.com() Thu, 24 Jul 2025 14:26:00 +0000 This week Rob and Adam discuss one of the foundational rules of improv, "Always make the active choice."  Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week Rob and Adam discuss one of the foundational rules of improv, “Always make the active choice.”  In the age of modern improv, what does an active choice look like? How does an “active choice” interact wtih Game of the Scene? What’s the difference between “action” and an “active choice?”

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]]> 383 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 383 Active Choice VS. Action Choice info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 3391 This week Rob and Adam discuss one of the foundational rules of improv, "Always make the active choice."  Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ The Anaesthetic of Yes And https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/?post_type=podcasts&p=412 https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/the-anaesthetic-of-yes-and info@thesonarnetwork.com() Tue, 15 Jul 2025 15:39:00 +0000 We're told that Yes And is the building block of every improv scene, but are there are drawbacks when using this tool? This week Rob and Adam discuss the origins of Yes And, how to agree effectively, and how to use emotion to hold the story in place. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ We’re told that Yes And is the building block of every improv scene, but are there are drawbacks when using this tool? This week Rob and Adam discuss the origins of Yes And, how to agree effectively, and how to use emotion to hold the story in place.

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]]> 382 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 382 The Anaesthetic of Yes And info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 3146 We're told that Yes And is the building block of every improv scene, but are there are drawbacks when using this tool? This week Rob and Adam discuss the origins of Yes And, how to agree effectively, and how to use emotion to hold the story in place. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Find the End https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/find-the-end/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/find-the-end info@thesonarnetwork.com() Thu, 10 Jul 2025 15:34:00 +0000 This week Rob and Adam discuss how to find your ending onstage, what a resolution looks like onstage, and how your ending might differ based on what format you're playing. Thanks to ITS Company Director Kate Coates. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week Rob and Adam discuss how to find your ending onstage, what a resolution looks like onstage, and how your ending might differ based on what format you’re playing. Thanks to ITS Company Director Kate Coates.

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]]> 381 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 381 Find the End info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 2766 This week Rob and Adam discuss how to find your ending onstage, what a resolution looks like onstage, and how your ending might differ based on what format you're playing. Thanks to ITS Company Director Kate Coates. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Scene Paint Me (Like One of Your French Girls) https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/scene-paint-me-like-one-of-your-french-girls/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/scene-paint-me-like-one-of-your-french-girls info@thesonarnetwork.com() Thu, 03 Jul 2025 15:02:00 +0000 This week Rob and Adam discuss scene painting within scenes, openers, and transitions.  As well as Mitch Marner, ceremonial swords, and the science of revenge. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week Rob and Adam discuss scene painting within scenes, openers, and transitions.  As well as Mitch Marner, ceremonial swords, and the science of revenge.

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]]> 380 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 380 Scene Paint Me (Like One of Your French Girls) info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 3765 This week Rob and Adam discuss scene painting within scenes, openers, and transitions.  As well as Mitch Marner, ceremonial swords, and the science of revenge. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Narrative Longfrom https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/narrative-longfrom/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/narrative-longfrom info@thesonarnetwork.com() Fri, 27 Jun 2025 14:15:00 +0000 This week Rob and Adam discuss story-structure, the limitations of modular improv, and how to create simple narratiaves for your improv show. Thanks to Garrett for his contribution to the Backline Mailbag. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week Rob and Adam discuss story-structure, the limitations of modular improv, and how to create simple narratiaves for your improv show. Thanks to Garrett for his contribution to the Backline Mailbag.

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]]> 379 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 379 Narrative Longfrom info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 2936 This week Rob and Adam discuss story-structure, the limitations of modular improv, and how to create simple narratiaves for your improv show. Thanks to Garrett for his contribution to the Backline Mailbag. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Too Big https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/too-big/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/too-big info@thesonarnetwork.com() Wed, 18 Jun 2025 11:26:00 +0000 This week Rob and Adam discuss nuanced characters, creating active audience members, and avoiding going "too big" in a scene. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week Rob and Adam discuss nuanced characters, creating active audience members, and avoiding going “too big” in a scene. Plus, the shame of not feeling enough onstage, some upcoming touring in the fall, and how every improviser is either Superman or Superboy onstage.

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]]> 378 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 378 Too Big info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 2816 This week Rob and Adam discuss nuanced characters, creating active audience members, and avoiding going "too big" in a scene. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Body Movin’ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/body-movin/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/body-movin info@thesonarnetwork.com() Mon, 16 Jun 2025 10:49:00 +0000 This week Rob and Adam discuss finding the fun in physicality, object work for your improv essay and the antidote for Talking Heads Syndrome.  Also covered: playing negative, not judging yourself, and Adam admits he was wrong about stacks/sacks. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week Rob and Adam discuss finding the fun in physicality, object work for your improv essay and the antidote for Talking Heads Syndrome.  Also covered: playing negative, not judging yourself, and Adam admits he was wrong about stacks/sacks.

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]]> 377 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 377 Body Movin’ info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 3309 This week Rob and Adam discuss finding the fun in physicality, object work for your improv essay and the antidote for Talking Heads Syndrome.  Also covered: playing negative, not judging yourself, and Adam admits he was wrong about stacks/sacks. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Hot Pockets https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/?post_type=podcasts&p=406 https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/hot-pockets info@thesonarnetwork.com() Tue, 03 Jun 2025 13:04:00 +0000 Every improviser has experienced "being in your head" and every improv podcast has discussed what it feels like. In this episode, Rob and Adam discuss the opposite, being "in the pocket". Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Every improviser has experienced “being in your head” and every improv podcast has discussed what it feels like. In this episode, Rob and Adam discuss the opposite, being “in the pocket”, as well as, the exciting improv scene of Buffalo New York, softball, and Adam’s new Dune-insipired improv catchphrases.

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]]> 377 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 377 Hot Pockets info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 3849 Every improviser has experienced "being in your head" and every improv podcast has discussed what it feels like. In this episode, Rob and Adam discuss the opposite, being "in the pocket". Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Breaking Up Is Hard to Do https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/breaking-up-is-hard-to-do/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/breaking-up-is-hard-to-do info@thesonarnetwork.com() Sun, 01 Jun 2025 21:22:00 +0000 This week Rob and Adam discuss what to do when your improv team breaks up, and how to move forward with the artform you love. Also, a birthday week, reconnecting after a long break, and the Backline Stacks VS. Sacks 2025 debate. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week Rob and Adam discuss what to do when your improv team breaks up, and how to move forward with the artform you love.  Also, a birthday week, reconnecting after a long break, and the Backline Stacks VS. Sacks 2025 debate.

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]]> 376 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 376 Breaking Up Is Hard to Do info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 2866 This week Rob and Adam discuss what to do when your improv team breaks up, and how to move forward with the artform you love. Also, a birthday week, reconnecting after a long break, and the Backline Stacks VS. Sacks 2025 debate. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Barprov https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/barprov/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/barprov info@thesonarnetwork.com() Wed, 21 May 2025 23:58:00 +0000 While there are many different forms of improvisation, there are none more derided than Barprov. This week Rob and Adam discuss crowds, controlling the room, and why improv performed outside of a theatre is classified as it's own format. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ While there are many different forms of improvisation, there are none more derided than Barprov. This week Rob and Adam discuss crowds, controlling the room, and why improv performed outside of a theatre is classified as it’s own format.

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]]> 375 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 375 Barprov info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 2636 While there are many different forms of improvisation, there are none more derided than Barprov. This week Rob and Adam discuss crowds, controlling the room, and why improv performed outside of a theatre is classified as it's own format. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Questions Only & The Mysteries of Season Nine https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/questions-only-the-mysteries-of-season-nine/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/questions-only-the-mysteries-of-season-nine info@thesonarnetwork.com() Wed, 14 May 2025 12:39:00 +0000 This week Rob and Adam pull a handful of questions from the Backline Mailbag to discuss casting an improv show, creating community, building energy throughout a show, teaching a new workshop, and support scenes. Also, a mystery. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week Rob and Adam pull a handful of questions from the Backline Mailbag to discuss casting an improv show, creating community, building energy throughout a show, teaching a new workshop, and support scenes. Also, a mystery.

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]]> 374 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 374 Questions Only & The Mysteries of Season Nine info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 3150 This week Rob and Adam pull a handful of questions from the Backline Mailbag to discuss casting an improv show, creating community, building energy throughout a show, teaching a new workshop, and support scenes. Also, a mystery. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Starting It Off Right https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/starting-it-off-right/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/starting-it-off-right info@thesonarnetwork.com() Wed, 07 May 2025 15:03:00 +0000 It's the launch of Season 9! Rob and Adam discuss how to start off a monoscene, things to avoid in your initiation, and finding a nonverbal, secret contract between you and your scene partner. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ It’s the launch of Season 9! Rob and Adam discuss how to start off a monoscene, things to avoid in your initiation, and finding a nonverbal, secret contract between you and your scene partner. Also, we now have a Patreon! Find us at patreon.com/TheBacklinePodcast.

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]]> 373 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 373 Starting It Off Right info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 3114 It's the launch of Season 9! Rob and Adam discuss how to start off a monoscene, things to avoid in your initiation, and finding a nonverbal, secret contract between you and your scene partner. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Three Ghosts of Improv https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/three-ghosts-of-improv/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/three-ghosts-of-improv info@thesonarnetwork.com() Tue, 24 Dec 2024 16:47:00 +0000 It's the season finale of The Backline.  This episode Adam and Rob reflect, vivisect, and/or project the past, present, and future of improv. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ It’s the season finale of The Backline.  This episode Adam and Rob reflect, vivisect, and/or project the past, present, and future of improv. We’ll be taking a short hiatus, in the meantime feel free to reaach out to @thebacklinepodcast on Instagram for improv questions, or queries.

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]]> 372 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 372 Three Ghosts of Improv info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 2037 It's the season finale of The Backline.  This episode Adam and Rob reflect, vivisect, and/or project the past, present, and future of improv. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Too Many Teachers https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/too-many-teachers/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/too-many-teachers info@thesonarnetwork.com() Mon, 09 Dec 2024 15:03:00 +0000 It seems like there's a billion improv teachers each with their own philosophy, terms and way of improvising.  But what do you do when those ideas contradict each other? Who do you listen to? How do you choose what you to practice onstage?  Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ It seems like there’s a billion improv teachers each with their own philosophy, terms and way of improvising.  But what do you do when those ideas contradict each other? Who do you listen to? How do you choose what you to practice onstage? This week, Rob and Adam discuss competing philosophies, building your own artistic practice, and so much more.

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]]> 371 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 371 Too Many Teachers info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 2506 It seems like there's a billion improv teachers each with their own philosophy, terms and way of improvising.  But what do you do when those ideas contradict each other? Who do you listen to? How do you choose what you to practice onstage?  Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Defensive https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/defensive/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/defensive info@thesonarnetwork.com() Fri, 29 Nov 2024 13:38:00 +0000 To perform comedy, you have to be vulnerable - but its incredible difficult to do so when surrounded by people who make fun of things for a living. In this episode Rob and Adam discuss vulnerability, courage, likability, and uncynical play. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ To perform comedy, you have to be vulnerable – but its incredible difficult to do so when surrounded by people who make fun of things for a living. In this episode Rob and Adam discuss vulnerability, courage, likability, and uncynical play.

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]]> 370 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 370 Defensive info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 3204 To perform comedy, you have to be vulnerable - but its incredible difficult to do so when surrounded by people who make fun of things for a living. In this episode Rob and Adam discuss vulnerability, courage, likability, and uncynical play. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Playing the Verb https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/playing-the-verb/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/playing-the-verb info@thesonarnetwork.com() Fri, 22 Nov 2024 13:51:00 +0000 In this episode, Rob and Adam open up the Backline Mailbag to answer listener questions about Rob's book Improvising Now: A Practical Guide to Modern Improv and the new concept of "The Act of ..." Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ In this episode, Rob and Adam open up the Backline Mailbag to answer listener questions about Rob’s book Improvising Now: A Practical Guide to Modern Improv and the new concept of “The Act of …”

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]]> 369 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 369 Playing the Verb info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 2272 In this episode, Rob and Adam open up the Backline Mailbag to answer listener questions about Rob's book Improvising Now: A Practical Guide to Modern Improv and the new concept of "The Act of ..." Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ A Comprehensive Guide to All Shortform Games – Part Two https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/?post_type=podcasts&p=395 https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/a-comprehensive-guide-to-all-shortform-games-part-two info@thesonarnetwork.com() Mon, 11 Nov 2024 06:10:00 +0000 This week Adam and Rob, use extensive metrics and data (definitely not just their opinion) to determine an ongoing ranking system for all shortform games.  Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ This week Adam and Rob, use extensive metrics and data (definitely not just their opinion) to determine an ongoing ranking system for all shortform games. 

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]]> 368 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 368 A Comprehensive Guide to All Shortform Games – Part Two info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 4255 This week Adam and Rob, use extensive metrics and data (definitely not just their opinion) to determine an ongoing ranking system for all shortform games.  Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Auditions and Disappointment https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/?post_type=podcasts&p=394 https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/auditions-and-disappointment info@thesonarnetwork.com() Mon, 04 Nov 2024 18:00:00 +0000 After a big audition, it's not uncommon to be disappointed with the results. This week Adam and Rob discuss their own feelings about rejection, disappointment, and feeling lost. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ After a big audition, it’s not uncommon to be disappointed with the results. Change can be hard. Lack of change, can be equally demoralizing.  Whether you didn’t get onto the team you wanted, or you feel stuck with your current situation, this week Adam and Rob discuss their own feelings about rejection, disappointment, and feeling lost.

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]]> 368 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 368 Auditions and Disappointment info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 3142 After a big audition, it's not uncommon to be disappointed with the results. This week Adam and Rob discuss their own feelings about rejection, disappointment, and feeling lost. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Control https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/control/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/control info@thesonarnetwork.com() Wed, 09 Oct 2024 12:17:00 +0000 Built into the fabric of improv is going with the flow, not thinking ahead, and letting go of control.  But being completely "out of control" isn't a good thing either? This week, Rob and Adam discuss the need to control what happens next. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Built into the fabric of improv is going with the flow, not thinking ahead, and letting go of control.  But being completely “out of control” isn’t a good thing either?  Why do some improvisers want to direct the scene, and others are happy to see what’s around the corner?  This week, Rob and Adam discuss the need to control what happens next and how to work around it.

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]]> 367 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 367 Control info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 3153 Built into the fabric of improv is going with the flow, not thinking ahead, and letting go of control.  But being completely "out of control" isn't a good thing either? This week, Rob and Adam discuss the need to control what happens next. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Teaching Your First Workshop https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/?post_type=podcasts&p=392 https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/teaching-your-first-workshop info@thesonarnetwork.com() Tue, 01 Oct 2024 05:05:00 +0000 Eventually, every improv professional needs to teach their first class. But what about? How do you pick a topic? How do you make that workshop successful? Is there any pitfalss to avoid?  In this episode, Rob and Adam discuss teaching your first workshop. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Eventually, every improv professional needs to teach their first class. But what about? How do you pick a topic? How do you make that workshop successful? Is there any pitfalss to avoid?  In this episode, Rob and Adam discuss teaching your first workshop.

Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

]]> 366 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 366 Teaching Your First Workshop info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 2879 Eventually, every improv professional needs to teach their first class. But what about? How do you pick a topic? How do you make that workshop successful? Is there any pitfalss to avoid?  In this episode, Rob and Adam discuss teaching your first workshop. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ The Problem with Strong Characters https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/the-problem-with-strong-characters/ https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/the-problem-with-strong-characters info@thesonarnetwork.com() Mon, 23 Sep 2024 14:42:00 +0000 Strong characters! It's whatever everyone wants to do onstage. In this episode, Rob and Adam go over techniques, tricks and tips for better characters. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Strong characters! It’s whatever everyone wants to do onstage.  But how do you do it? What’s the difference between a strong characters and a cariacture? How do I avoid stereotypes? What do I do when I run out of things to say?  In this episode, Rob and Adam go over techniques, tricks and tips for better characters.

Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

]]> 365 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 365 The Problem with Strong Characters info@thesonarnetwork.com full yes 3423 Strong characters! It's whatever everyone wants to do onstage. In this episode, Rob and Adam go over techniques, tricks and tips for better characters. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ The Unteachables https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/?post_type=podcasts&p=390 https://thesonarnetwork.com/the-backline/episode/the-unteachables info@thesonarnetwork.com() Wed, 21 Aug 2024 09:22:00 +0000 Can improv be taught? What about funny? What about stage presence? What about "star power"? This episode Rob and Adam discuss what can and cannot be taught in the classroom and the mysterious, and amorphous qualities make for a great improviser. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/ Can improv be taught? What about funny? What about stage presence? What about “star power”? This episode Rob and Adam discuss what can and cannot be taught in the classroom and the mysterious, and amorphous qualities make for a great improviser.

Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

]]> 364 Rob Norman Adam Cawley 364 The Unteachables info@thesonarnetwork.com premium yes 3355 Can improv be taught? What about funny? What about stage presence? What about "star power"? This episode Rob and Adam discuss what can and cannot be taught in the classroom and the mysterious, and amorphous qualities make for a great improviser. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/