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Improv Spotlight: 8 Questions with the Crazy 8s’ Mary Prather

This Saturday, May 6, the Crazy 8s will take the stage at Towngate Theatre at 8pm for an evening of improvisational comedy that is certain to make you laugh.

The troupe is made up of high-school and college-aged thespians who perform without a script, using only their imaginations, their adrenaline and the suggestions that come from the audience members.

One of the performers in the group is Wheeling native and junior at Wheeling Park High School, Mary Prather. We asked Mary eight questions about her involvement with the Crazy 8s.

Why did you get involved with Improv?

When I was much younger, my parents wanted to get me out of the house and socialize so they signed me up for tons of classes at Towngate. Eventually one of the classes was the Improv class, which quickly became my favorite.

What is your favorite Improv game?

Well, I like them all, but if I have to pick a favorite, then I’ll go with Montage.

What do you like about Improv?

I like how expressive it is. You really have to be in the moment for a scene to work.

What is one of your favorite moments from Improv?

There have been too many hilarious moments during rehearsals to count, but I think my favorite memory happened after one of our shows last summer. A couple of our performers were graduating, so that was their last show with us. Right after the show we decided that we weren’t ready to say goodbye yet, so we piled into one of the senior’s cars and drove to Kroger and bought a huge tub of ice cream to share. It was just a beautiful moment with my friends.

When you’re not doing Improv, what do you like to do?

Probably my homework or working on another show. I’m in four AP classes right now, but I also try to stay involved in the local theater community. Unfortunately, that doesn’t leave a lot of free time, but that’s just life.

What’s the hardest thing about doing Improv?

The hardest part is when you’re either watching a scene or in a scene and you can just feel the moment falling flat on its face, and there’s really nothing you can do to stop it.

What skills do you think Improv gives you that are useful in everyday life?

It helps me think on my feet. I can make original puns at the drop of a hat. Some of my friends really hate that.

Peanut butter & banana, peanut butter & pickle or peanut butter & jelly?

The comedian in me wants to say peanut butter and pickle, but I really do like peanut butter and banana, especially with a little bit of honey.

GET TICKETS

Tickets for the show this Saturday, May 6 are only $5 and on sale now. Purchase in advance at OIonline.com or by calling 304-242-7700. You can buy tickets at the door, too.

Beer Tasting at Stifel Mansion with Wheeling Brewing

Oglebay Institute continues its Art and Ale craft beer series at 6:30 p.m. Friday, May 5 at its Stifel Fine Arts Center in Wheeling. The event features beer and food pairings from Wheeling Brewing Company.  Guests can also view the art exhibit on display in the Hart Galleries.

Selections Include:

Weelunk Blonde Ale paired with Detox Salad
4.8% ABV 16 IBUs
A refreshingly light-bodied blonde ale, with a hint of fruity aroma and light citrus flavor. Honey, and wheat malts, paired with Cascade and Saaz hops provide a pleasant experience, welcomed to the city named as “The Place of the Skull.”

McColloch’s Wheat Ale paired with Sweet Brisket and Berries
5.0% ABV 22 IBUs
An American Wheat Ale that is light in body with a crisp, citrus finish. Brewed with pale and wheat malts with hints of Cascade & Amarillo hops. You do not need to be as daring as Samuel McColloch and his horse to enjoy this brew.

Old Reymann’s Amber Ale paired with Beef Tenderloin
6.4% ABV 31 IBUs
This gold-burnished American Amber Ale is mildly sweet, mildly toasty, and characterized by a supremely gentle bite. Inspired by one of the most famous of Wheeling’s many historic breweries, this ale is a tribute to easy-drinking.

Moon Dog I.P.A.  paired with Smoke Salmon Lettuce Wraps
6.2% ABV 60 IBUs
Named after local hero and icon Charles Waldrum, who is always pedaling his bike to help out! Our India Pale Ale has a slight sweetness and a nice balance with three hop varieties, creating bitterness, flavor, and aroma.

Nail City Porter paired with Short Bread
6.4% ABV 40 IBUs
A dark ale with a complex and toasty character achieved through the use of chocolate, caramel malts, and roasted barley . Brewed in tribute to Wheeling’s famous steel-production industry, this beer is the working man’s best friend

About Wheeling Brewing Company

Wheeling Brewing Company is a micro-brewpub located in Wheeling’s historic Centre Market district in downtown Wheeling, WV. Founded in 2014, Wheeling Brewing Company was created out of a passion to lead in the revitalization of downtown Wheeling and to resurrect a rich history of micro-brewing in the area.

Featuring award winning beer, sophisticated wine and exquisite food in an urban setting, Wheeling Brewing Company strives to partner with local businesses and farmers to source food and beer creations.

Soak Up the Atmosphere.

Craft beer events take place in the elegant, yet intimate, splendor of one of Wheeling’s grand properties.

Stifel Fine Arts Center

The 100-year-old Stifel Mansion is the former home of one of Wheeling’s most prominent families and is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. While strolling through the historic home,  marvel at the stained glass windows, grand central staircase, marble floors and the majestic fireplace in the formal living room. During warm weather, stroll through the gardens. You can also view the art on display in the gallery.  Most of all, unwind and have fun.

Get Tickets

Admission to the event is $30 and includes all beverages, buffet of foods and the show. Members of Oglebay Institute receive a discount. Purchase tickets online or call 304-242-7700.