diff --git a/console/renderers/curses_renderer.py b/console/renderers/curses_renderer.py
index 798a0b7..3e7f360 100644
--- a/console/renderers/curses_renderer.py
+++ b/console/renderers/curses_renderer.py
@@ -7,6 +7,11 @@ built-in :mod:`curses` library.
 """
 
 import curses
+import os
+
+# Reduce ESC key delay from default 1000ms to 25ms.
+# Must be set BEFORE curses.initscr() is called.
+os.environ.setdefault('ESCDELAY', '25')
 
 from console.config import COLORS_VT220
 from console.renderers.base import BaseRenderer