The Harold
The foundational long-form improv structure developed by Del Close.
About
The Harold is the most influential long-form improv format. It begins with a group pattern/game, develops three unrelated two-person scenes, revisits them in deepening rounds, and finds connections between all strands in a final convergence.
How to Play
- 1
Opening: Get a single suggestion and create a group pattern/game exploring its themes.
- 2
Round 1: Three separate two-person scenes, all inspired by the opening. Each scene is introduced fresh.
- 3
Group game 1: A short group piece connecting themes from Round 1.
- 4
Round 2: Return to each of the three scenes, advancing the story or jumping in time.
- 5
Group game 2: Another group piece.
- 6
Round 3: Final returns to all scenes - ideally scenes begin to connect or comment on each other.