Like a lot of performing arts organizations, the Baltimore Improv Group has had to quickly retool and move shows online in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
Terry Withers, managing director for BIG, said the group is now up to five free improv performances a week, broadcasting live on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Off-the-cuff comedy is an art, one that requires adaptability, a keen awareness of the audience and endless creativity from an improv performer. And Baltimore has no shortage of these impressive artists, many of whom host their own shows and teach workshops under the umbrella of the Baltimore Improv Group, or BIG for short.
Fresh off of XFest, a comedy festival highlighting women, trans, non-binary and gender non-conforming performers, the Baltimore Improv Group is opening its stage for a night of “femme-power comedy.”
The last six months have been kind to the Baltimore Improv Group. The nonprofit comedy organization has settled into its newly renovated home in Station North, seen upticks in attendance at shows and a steady stream of revenue from paid classes and workshops, and even earned a “Best of Baltimore” nod from the readers of the city’s paper of record.
The BIG Theater should be in tip-top shape very soon, thanks to a successful online fundraising campaign.
What’s a theater without lights, a lobby or even a green room?
The Baltimore Improv Group is getting set for its 13th season of on-the-spot comedy. This year, there will also be a new spot involved.
Winter doldrums, anybody? Flu season, much? Well, if laughter is the best medicine—and I guess, technically it must be the best medicine for feeling blue at least—get yourself a major dose at on of Baltimore Improv Group (aka BIG)’s multiple performances this weekend. Think you could use a double dose? Make it a marathon with more than one, since it’s never the same show twice (because, you know, it’s improv).
Back in the late 90’s, there was a wonderful show called “Whose Line Is It Anyways?” I spent many an evening enjoying the improvisational stylings of the cast, crew and musical team. A few years ago, I was lucky enough to catch Wayne Brady at a show in Virginia, and my dreams from 1999 came true. Imagine my elation, joy and surprise at discovering that Laura Hall, the improvisational pianist from Whose Line was coming to the Creative Alliance this weekend.
I had my first introduction to the Baltimore Improv Group, affectionately known as BIG, this past Saturday at their second performance of 2013 at the Mobtown Theater. They were an absolute delight and oh how I envied the unadulterated joy on all the performers’ faces as they were in their complete element. Every joke, every movement, every slight change in intonation was noted by fellow performers, and executed masterfully, right on the spot.
Luckily, BIG looks out for all of us who may wish to test the improvisational waters. Their introductory improv classes begin tonight at the Creative Alliance and take place every Tuesday night from 7-9pm through February 19th. Advance registration is $170, $150 for Creative Alliance members. Walk-ins are $190, $170 for members. The final show is a culmination of all things learned in the weeks prior, in a showcase for your friends, family, and any nemeses to which you may want to rudely show off your newfound talent. Follow in the footsteps of such improv geniuses as Tina Fey, Steve Carrell, Amy Poehler, Bill Murray and Amy Sedaris.
When:
Tuesdays from 7:00p – 9:00p
Where:
The Creative Alliance
3134 Eastern Ave
Baltimore, MD
Why:
To loosen up a bit and learn just how capable you may be to make others laugh.
Cost:
Tomorrow? $190. Which comes out to $27/week if you don’t miss a week. Skip happy hour a few times, and you’re golden. No excises!
