Some years ago I tried to audition for an improv comedy group. They were specifically looking for people with no previous experience. After a short, maybe half-hour introduction to the rules for improv, number one of which was “Never refuse an offer from another improv-er”, I got my chance to audition.
Me and another new guy got up on stage, and pretended to kneel by a campfire. He turns to me and says, “So… you been out here long?”
I say the first thing that comes to mind: “No….”
The director cuts me off. “Next!” and someone else takes my place.
Dammit. All that talk about “no” and it’s the first thing out of my mouth! I never got another chance that night.
I swear I could do better today. I’m in a much more positive frame of mind.