This show is an improviser’s dream, lead by improv duo Chris Barry and Richard Paul known as Four First Names. The premise of this show is simple. It is a monthly variety show which showcases various performance art styles. And, it’s improvised.
Four First Names along with musical director Eliane Pechacek opened the show with an improvised musical based on a story of a big event given by an audience member. The musical picks up the moment after the event. Tonight’s event was a bear sighting in the woods of Alaska. The bear was 30 feet away. Chris and Richard are an undeniably confident duo. Richard’s downplayed zany choices are complimented by Chris’ straight man characters constantly calling Richard out under his breathe at the end of his own statements. The two have a great chemistry and while they are very funny, I appreciate their ability to have tender moments.
The Hilend Games, a family trio featuring husband and wife Chelsea and Max as well as Heather, sister to Max. (This is a LOT. Why did I have to write it?). This team performed a long form style hadn’t seen up until tonight. Similar to the short form games Scene Collage and Pan Left, Pan Right, this set rotates between three separate scenes, each opened by a single player performing a monologue. These three seasoned performers created three complete worlds full of strong characters and emotional connections. As a student of improv, I felt like I was privy to a masterclass in this art form. The scene transitions were seamless and I could sit here all night telling you how much I loved this performance but explaining an improv scene is never as interesting as seeing one so I’ll just leave you with this. It was good.
Cult Classic. This was an ensemble performance consisting of Tracy Wiu, Chris Barry, Joel Warren and Daryl Black. Cult Classic is a long form set created out of necessity by Richard Paul. Based on suggestions given by the audience, players create a cult in which to depict a day in the life. This form played well to Joel Warren’s strengths. This brilliant player’s mind is incredibly fast. Joel did an incredible job of creating this world with his fellow players. I especially love his attention to details. Daryl played the newest member of the cult, a dim witted guy who was just trying to fit in and do his best. This extremely like-able yet sad individual had me rolling. What a great cast of players.
Free Daps closed the show with yet another phenomenal freestyle rap performance. Every show these guys put on is so good I am constantly at a loss for words. Representing the team this evening were Jordan Keyes and Jonathan Hugo. The two charming performers attack a performance without let up. With audience participation and all, Free Daps never misses a beat, jumping through lyrical hoops and putting on a show like no other. Also, my friend Daeva got slow jammed.
If you are even the slightest bit curious about improv, I suggest you check this show out. When done this well, long form improv is exciting, emotional and funny.
Thank you Richard and Chris for a wonderful night of improv. As an improviser, I am grateful to be able to see good long form shows. I can’t wait for the next one. Also, a continued thank you to Eliane for Dragonfly Studio & Productions so we can have more performance art in our community.
Bravo All!
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