The Backline

The Sonar Network

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EDUCATION
UPDATED WEEKLY

Canadian Comedy Award winners Rob Norman and Adam Cawley discuss weekly improv-based topics based on a theme.

1 DAY AGO

Lost

In this episode of The Backline, Rob and Adam explore why performers lose their footing, from overthinking to disconnection, and share practical ways to stay present, reconnect, and move forward without spiraling into shame when you get lost in a scene. Also, a question about basketball, bullying anyone about anything, and the special relationship between a man and his dragon. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/

1hr 2min
1 APR

Learning but Bored

Advanced improv can be tricky—students freeze, forget the game, or feel overwhelmed by structure. This week Rob and Adam discuss practical strategies to reduce overload, and motivate students who may never perform but just want to have fun. Also, "Missiles", door-Ohs, and your new favourite mantra "It's just a body". Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/

58 min
24 MAR

Awareness VS. Agency

This week Rob and Adam discuss how to create interiority in a character, how focussing too much on heightening can create undesired outcomes, and how intentionally burning your own Game of the Scene can make for a more interesting, and psychologically complex character. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/

53 min
10 MAR

Is it a Scam?

This week, Rob and Adam discuss shady improv classes, incompetent improv teachers, and what to do when you’re dissatisfied with your experience in the classroom. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/

42 min
3 MAR

A Surprising Way to Teach Improv

This week Rob and Adam discuss different methods of teaching improv, what's the best way for a teacher to get their ideas across, and how context changes a teacher's lesson plan. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/

26 min
23 FEB

Is this the End of the Second City e.t.c?

This week, Rob and Adam unpack a major shake-up at The Second City. Starting January 22, 2026, the historic e.t.c. Stage shifts from scripted sketch to Improv Supernova, a fully improvised show—the first change in its 43-year history. They explore why the move makes sense now and what it means for the future of Second City, improv, and sketch comedy. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/

1hr 3min
17 FEB

Shame, Scene Hogs, and Everything Else

Rob and Adam answer three questions from a single listener. This week they discuss shame, greedy scene partners, and how to strengthen your comedic muscles offstage. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/

1hr 3min
12 FEB

To Care or Not to Care

This week Rob and Adam discuss the delicate balance between telling jokes and caring about the reality of the scene, when it makes sense to care in your scene, and how to start investing in the reality more. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network https://thesonarnetwork.com/

53 min

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PERFORMING ARTS
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COMEDY INTERVIEWS
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CAREERS
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IMPROV
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FOOD
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FILM REVIEWS