Corpsing

Corpsing, also known as breaking character or laughing uncontrollably, is a term used in the entertainment industry to describe the act of an actor or performer unintentionally breaking character and laughing during a performance. This phenomenon often occurs when a performer finds something unexpectedly funny or when they are unable to control their laughter due to a humorous situation.

Definition and Origins

The term "corpsing" originated in the theater industry, particularly in the realm of improvisational comedy and live performances. It refers to the act of a performer breaking character and laughing on stage, often resulting in a chain reaction of laughter among the cast and audience. The term itself is derived from the idea that the performer's laughter makes them appear like a corpse, hence the term "corpsing."

Causes and Effects

Corpsing can be triggered by various factors, including unexpected improvisations, humorous mishaps, or simply the contagious nature of laughter. It often occurs when performers are caught off guard by a funny line, a comedic gesture, or an unexpected prop malfunction. Once one performer starts laughing, it can quickly spread to others on stage, leading to a breakdown in the performance.

The effects of corpsing can range from minor disruptions in the flow of a scene to complete derailment of the performance. While corpsing can be seen as unprofessional, it can also add an element of spontaneity and humor to a show, making it memorable for both the performers and the audience.

Examples in Popular Culture

Corpsing has become a well-known phenomenon in the entertainment industry, with numerous examples of actors breaking character and laughing during performances. One notable example is the British sketch comedy show "Monty Python's Flying Circus," where the cast frequently struggled to maintain composure during their absurd and hilarious sketches.

Another famous example is the late-night talk show "Saturday Night Live," where cast members often struggle to keep a straight face during live sketches. These instances of corpsing have become iconic moments in television history, often resulting in even more laughter from the audience.

Impact on Performers

While corpsing can be seen as a moment of weakness or unprofessionalism, it is important to recognize that performers are human and susceptible to laughter like anyone else. In fact, corpsing can often be a sign of a strong bond and camaraderie among the cast, as they share a genuine moment of laughter together.

However, corpsing can also be a source of frustration for performers, as it can disrupt the flow of a scene and potentially ruin the comedic timing. Actors often employ various techniques to prevent corpsing, such as focusing on a specific point in the audience, biting their lips, or even thinking of something sad to suppress laughter.

Conclusion

Corpsing is a common occurrence in the entertainment industry, where performers sometimes find themselves unable to control their laughter during a performance. While it can be seen as a momentary lapse in professionalism, corpsing also adds an element of spontaneity and humor to a show, making it memorable for both the performers and the audience. Despite its potential challenges, corpsing serves as a reminder that even the most seasoned performers are not immune to the contagious nature of laughter.