The Auckland Improv Festival
The Auckland Improv Festival finally arrived, making the days a flurry of activity with workshops to be worked on and shows to be seen.
Held at the Covert Theatre in Ponsonby, it was a massive opportunity to take advantage of experienced teachers like Jim Fishwick from Hamilton, Wade Jackson and Penny Ashton, both from Auckland and others. These meant that new skills and tools were added to the Honest Liars repertoire of games.
The players arrived in the big smoke in individual and group convoys over a few days. Some came later due to their work life, but all had one intent in mind: learning and absorbing as much improv as possible.
Meeting at mealtimes and after workshops stretched the players’ knowledge as they discussed what had been learned. Shows offered inspiration and new ideas as well as laughter and enjoyment.
The last day rolled around, and after a couple of workshops, the players just had time to have a bit of a break before they were on stage for their hour-long show. Nerves were quelled in the green room after a good warm-up and focus techniques. The intro music played, and the Honest Liars ran out onto the stage.
Performing in a different theatre was a novelty, but the players rose to the occasion and games commenced.
They played Alphabet, Pocket Note, Film Noir and a selection of other games showing a variety of short-form improv. These had the audience laughing and enjoying the Honest Liars’ show. The players were put through their paces in locations such as a tree-house, SeaWorld and the deli section at Countdown. From steamy, crime drama to western to pantomime, a diversity of genres filtered throughout the stories being told. A Lord of the Rings Themed Restaurant finished the show with an epic statement of
“The meal is free, but the N.Z. taxpayer will be charged 14 million dollars… enjoy the rest of your evening.”
…and, being the last line, it wound up a successful hour.
Back in the green room, the players quickly de-briefed, took some well needed slow breaths then headed back to the bar to join family, friends and fellow improvers for a well-deserved drink.
Players on stage:
| Kathy Kelly Fee Brett |
Melissa Kim Jon Mark |
and special mention to Sally, Sue and Ian whose commitment to Improv brought them up for the workshops and shows. That’s dedication!
The next show at the Jam Factory is on
Sunday 2nd May 7 pm
Book your tickets, have a drink at Mood Lounge first, then join the players for loads of laughs.
1st Sunday of every Month
Jam Factory, Historic Village
Show Starts: 7 p.m.
