What is the role of intuition in the process of improvisation? : a closer look at the working methods of Forced Entertainment, Gob Squad and Marble Crowd

Abstract

In order to answer the question: What is the role of intuition in the process of improvisation?- this essay begins with a personal need and search for an explanation of the mysterious and mystical element of intuition. This journey tries to explain the importance of improvisation as a creative strategy in devised theatre. Additionally, in psychology the well known theory of the state of flow has been looked at carefully. The benefits of this mental state for the creative process are then identified.Improvisation and intuition as creative practises are looked at closely. Through theselenses, successful contemporary theatre collectives: Forced Entertainment, Gob Squad andMarble Crowd have been examined carefully. A well documented process allows us to track and name the vital elements in all these collectives and identify their different approaches. Lastly, their methods were compared by finding similarities and pinpoint differences.