Improv group’s ‘humour on the hoof’ to be showcased
Participants in an improv course 'watch' a horse race, coached by tutor Danny O’Hara (far right). An Improv Showcase is now planned for Sheringham Little Theatre. Picture: RICHARD BATSON - Credit: Archant
Having to make up comedy on the hoof is no laughing matter.
Course members take on other personas during the improv course. An Improv Showcase is now planned for Sheringham Little Theatre. Picture: RICHARD BATSON - Credit: Archant
But a group of plucky people hope it is - after learning the stage skill from experts.
A handful of have-a-go hysteria heroes have been coached in the art of improvised comedy and drama during an eight-week course run by Sheringham Little Theatre.
And on Saturday March 2 an audience can see the results in an end of course show – as well as the professionals in action.
The sessions include role-playing games where course members ad lib lines, and create characters and scenes from scratch – much like the popular TV show Whose Line is it Anyway?
Course members take on other personas during the improv course. An Improv Showcase is now planned for Sheringham Little Theatre. Picture: RICHARD BATSON - Credit: Archant
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They have been run by Norwich-based Dogface Improv, which combine running courses with staging shows including at the Edinburgh Fringe.
Founder Chris Read said: 'Anyone can do improv.
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'Our biggest challenge is showing people that it isn't just for people who consider themselves 'funny' or want to perform.
'The sessions are great for wellbeing.
Scott Butler as a jockey during an improv session. An Improv Showcase is now planned for Sheringham Little Theatre. Picture: RICHARD BATSON - Credit: Archant
'I can testify to that being someone who's struggled with mental health my entire life.
'It's really helped my confidence and mental wellness.'
One of the course members Scott Butler, from Overstrand, who is well-known as the promoter of Cromer's Folk on the Pier Festival, said: 'I have dabbled in am dram, but never something as fascinating and full on as improv.
'It has been a real buzz to meet new people and have such a chuckle.
'I have learned that I am able to create scenarios, mimic well, and realised that I am equipped with very good communication skills.
'On a professional level, as someone who is quite regularly in front of audiences of varying sizes as an MC, it has been an enormous help by way of certain warm-up preparation.
'On a social level I now have some great fun 'games' under my belt,' he said.
The showcase, which starts at 7.30pm, will see the first half performed by the Sheringham course 'graduates' while the second is a demonstration by the Dogface Allstars professionals. Tickets are £5.
Contact the box office on 01263 822347 or visit www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com
