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Cabaret of chaos: An improviser’s guide to playing in uncertainty

Cabaret of chaos: An improviser’s guide to playing in uncertainty

Update: 2025-09-02
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Join me unpacking a recent experience of improvising at a festival - in a room that wasn’t quite ready to play. What started as a search for lightness turned into a fascinating, often excruciating exploration of what happens when improv meets uncertainty, nervous systems, and a whole lot of silence.

This is part analysis, part rant, and part love letter to the art of play. I share what I learned about game-building, commitment, group dynamics, and what improvisers know deeply: how to meet a moment, how to make others look good, and how to navigate not knowing.

I also explore our need for fun, connection, and recognition - and what it means to offer joy when it might not be met. If you’ve ever longed to play but hesitated at the edge, or found yourself carrying too much responsibility, this one’s for you.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit chriskenworthy.substack.com
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Cabaret of chaos: An improviser’s guide to playing in uncertainty

Cabaret of chaos: An improviser’s guide to playing in uncertainty

Chris Kenworthy