"A Night of Improv": What it is, how we do it, and why you should attend

This weekend, we're presenting our latest production, "A Night of Improv". It's a sketch comedy show featuring a very funny improv group called Unrehearsed.

So, exactly what is “improv” and why is there a “night” of it? "Improv" is short for "improvisation" or "improvised". This means to make things up on the spur of the moment. No script, and no idea what’s coming. Like a musician playing a solo without sheet music. Or a chef who is forced to make a meal without knowing the ingredients ahead of time.That is exactly what these actors will be doing on stage, live, in front of an audience.

Let me explain how this works. The format is very similar to other improv shows (think Whose Line is it Anyway, the television show): the host announces and explains a game, calls the actors down, and gives them their situations, characters, and/or both. The actors then act out the scene, making everything up on the spot, and trying their best to keep you entertained. When the host feels the scene has reached its conclusion, he'll end it. Each game has its own set of rules and twists, but all require lightning fast thinking and creativity.

I can almost guarantee that if you’ve ever watched an improv show, taken an improv class, or participated in any kind of theater, you’ve seen and/or participated in at least a few of these games before. Some may have different names than what you remember. In addition, we also have games that are original to the group that we created ourselves. We think theses new games will offer some unique situations for the actors, and will provide a great evening of entertainment for the audience.

Improv isn't easy, and it takes a lot of practice, patience, and talent. Think of each game as a short scene, only a few minutes in length: characters have to interact, conflicts have to be created and solved, and, structurally, it needs to make sense. The actors only have about 5 seconds to prepare for the scene after it’s announced. Thankfully, they’ve done this before, enjoy doing it, and get better every time. Improv isn’t for everyone (or every actor), but a true love of it and lots of practice can help make it less formidable.

About the group: Unrehearsed formed in 2012 to create a benefit show for the Sarah Grace Foundation for Children with Cancer, which is a charity run by the family of cast member James Weippert. Having performed together in various shows for many years, and all having experience in improv, it was a natural fit for this cast, and the show was a success. This past June, the group reformed to create another benefit show, with all of the original members returning. For our show this weekend, nearly 25% of the games have changed since the June show.

“A Night of Improv” is on Friday, September 20th, and Saturday, September 21st at 8pm at the Malverne Bible Church - 270 Franklin Ave., Malverne. It stars Michael Pagano, James Weippert, John Ortiz, Potoula Anagnostakos, and Matthew Waldman and is directed by David Coonan. 

It’s fast paced and funny and you might be able to participate. See you this weekend.