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Yes, And in the Writers’ Room: Improv Principles for Creative Collaboration

Dóra Jóhannsdóttir shares how the principles of improv can help writers’ rooms become more creative, productive and enjoyable. Screenwriters and creative teams can apply core improv tools such as listening, acceptance, building on ideas, presence, navigating uncertainty, problem-solving, playfulness and shared responsibility to strengthen collaboration in story development. Drawing on her experience as a screenwriter, director, performer and founder of Improv Iceland and the Improv School, she offers practical methods for creating psychological safety, connection and trust, while strengthening creative instincts, courage and spontaneity. The lecture explores how improv-based thinking can support bold choices, better communication and a more joyful, inspiring creative process.

About Dóra Jóhannsdóttir

Dóra Jóhannsdóttir, an Icelandic screenwriter, director, and producer. She is the creator, co-writer, and executive producer of Húsó (The School of Housewives), as well as the founder of Improv Iceland and the Improv School.

In her open lecture, she explores how the principles of improv can help writers’ rooms become more creative, productive, and enjoyable, drawing on her extensive experience in screenwriting for theatre, film and television, including Áramótaskaupið, Iceland’s iconic New Year’s Eve satire sketch show, and as co-creator of Stella Blómkvist 2.