On Nov. 10, the University of Rhode Island’s improv comedy troupe, Rhody Ridiculousness, put on its first and only show of the fall semester.
Improv (short for improvisation) is a unique type of live comedy with little to no preparation beforehand. The performance is driven by interactions not only between the performers but also often the audience members. In particular, Rhody Ridiculousness utilizes various games to give the troupe members an outlet for their own style of comedy.
The troupe started by recruiting members at the beginning of the year through auditions. Aside from training during the week, the troupe meets weekly for practice. Although the group is at its maximum member capacity for this semester, they encourage anyone interested in improv to show up to their open rehearsals the first Tuesday of every academic month.
“Improv is a place to grow into yourself and try out new things,” President Lauren Gardner said. “One rehearsal you might be holding a flashlight, and the next you might BE the flashlight.”
Due to the unpredictable nature of improv, these rehearsals are different from that of, say, a play or concert. The troupe doesn’t rehearse lines or stories; Meetings typically address core improv concepts such as characterization, heightening and object work. Practice consists of playing up to six to eight different games in order to bring out each member’s individual talents. The only thing memorized before the performance is the rules to the games, and the most successful games are played in the shows.
“Beyond the actual acting, it is a great opportunity to meet some amazing people and be part of something to help you de-stress from the week,” Gardner said. “All you need to bring to improv is yourself and an open mind.”
Although the nature of improv is spontaneous, the troupe strives to create a fun and comfortable environment for everyone involved. The members keep in touch with each other with group chats, host bonding events and complete consent forms to create boundaries and ensure nobody is uncomfortable.
“Our club focuses on creating a safe environment for all to come together and laugh,” Vice President Ella McNally said. “Experience is not needed, and we gather for pleasure, enjoyment and fun as opposed to competition.”
Beyond just being a group of performers, Rhody Ridiculousness serves as a way for fans of improv comedy to meet new friends, become more confident in themselves and of course, laugh a ton.
“As my third full semester as president, I can say I’ve seen a lot of friendships bloom for myself and for others,” Gardner said. “I’ve seen a lot of people come out of their comfort zone and take risks. I encourage all to get involved.”
Rhody Ridiculousness is finished with their shows for this semester, but they’ll be back in the spring. On top of their monthly open rehearsals, they encourage students interested in improv to audition next semester. Anyone with further questions is welcome to reach out to their email address [email protected] or direct message them on Instagram: @rhodyridiculousness.