Week 4: Patterns

Our brains are pattern making machines. We love to see patterns in everything that happens in life. If we just let our brains take over, and make automatic connections between two ideas, words or experiences we will often come up with a more exciting or inspiring story than if we brainstormed for an hour or two. At the very least it will be more unexpected. You can experiment with this idea at home.

Try to come up with a story involving a cat.

Now try to come up with a story about a cat and a tutu.

Which was easier?

Personally, I find the second process easier. As I wrote the above, a whole story about a cat who ate its owners tutu just before her big dance night, and she had to fashion a new tutu out of her curtains, came into my head. Working with two ideas is often easier because this allows our brains to make connections.

The brilliant thing is that this is something that our brains do automatically. You don't need to be clever or brilliant, you just need to trust that you brain will come up with a connection which works. And it is important that you don't judge or censor these ideas. What is obvious to you will often surprise and delight other people.

So take the time to explore your world on stage and pay attention to your scene partner. Rather than looking inwards and trying to come up with a brilliant idea, focus outwards. Often the idea that will inspire you is already on the stage. And never be afraid of leaping into the unknown. Your brain will love you for it.

Activity

Write down a series of words which inspire you on peices of paper (eg stone, wine, logging camp, cat, cleaning lady etc). Pull 3 - 4 random words out of the hat and improvise a short story using those words.