Storyteller Improv, a local improv troupe, is putting on a series of shows at the Backdoor Playhouse, starting Aug. 27. The shows will be hosted by the Backdoor Improv troupe.
They have scheduled performances for Aug. 27, Sept. 10, Sept. 24, Oct. 8, Oct. 22, Nov. 12, Nov. 26th and Dec. 3rd.
There will be two performances for the shows on Sept. 10, Oct. 8 and Nov. 12. The first performance of the night will be a family-friendly show that begins at 6:30 p.m. The second performance, starting at 8 p.m, will be uncensored. As for the rest of the dates, they will begin at 8 p.m. and consist of only uncensored performances. Tickets can be purchased at the door, or online at storytellertheaterco.org.
The performances will consist of a series of games, played by the cast members with audience suggestions. The president of the troupe, Laura Holoway said, “People should expect to see improv games similar to what you would see on the show ‘Whose Line is it Anyway.’ ”
The shows typically last an hour for both the family-friendly and the uncensored performances.
The troupe had taken a break from performances during the latter half of 2020, through the beginning of 2021. After a series of performances over this past summer, the troupe is back in full swing. Laura commented, “It’s a nice break from the seriousness of the world right now in a much needed laugh during a very dramatic year.”
Audience members will be required to wear masks during the show as per Tech campus policy. The front two rows of seats will also be blocked off to keep distance between the audience and the performers. “Performers may be performing with face shields on or no cov
ering as we have all been vaccinated and already work closely with one another on a weekly basis. We want the show to be safe for everyone involved as well as being the best performance we can provide,” said Briley Barnett, a member of the Storyteller Improv troupe.
The Backdoor Improv troupe, a Tennessee Tech club, will be opening for the Storyteller Improv consisting of Tech students. The group meets on Fridays at 4:30 p.m. at the Backdoor Playhouse and is open to all Tennessee Tech students.
The Storyteller Improv Troupe was founded in 2019 and consists of, “local creatives looking to share their love of performance and comedy with the Cookeville area,” said Briley Barnett.
“Perhaps their first real laugh of 2021,” Laura Holoway said.
