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Theatresports

1977-present · Calgary (origin) / Worldwide

Also known as TheatreSports

Keith Johnstone's pro-wrestling-inspired competitive improv — two teams, judges, point cards, and the threat of honks for bad scenes. The template for 99% of modern improv competition.

Known for

Created 1977 in Calgary by Keith Johnstone at Loose Moose Theatre Company; inspired by Johnstone watching pro wrestling generate 'heat.'
Competitive format: judges hold cards 0-5, a honk from a rescue-horn means 'kindly leave the stage.'
Penalties for rule-breaking: wear a basket on your head, act barefoot, act as a pig, play a character who dies by scene's end.
Despite competitive frame, Johnstone's philosophy de-emphasized gags — wants platform-building, spontaneous collaborative storytelling.
Trademarked by the International Theatresports Institute; licensed globally. Most widely practiced improv format in the world.