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.