Whose Article Is It Anyway? An Overview of Moeller's Irreplaceable Improv Program
Improv, also known as “spontaneous ensemble theatre,” is a show involving a group who participates in comedy games in front of an audience. As the name implies, the actors make up their skits and jokes on the spot, and the only preparation they have is knowing the structure of the activity. From simple skits to complex musical numbers, improv is a great way to deliver amusing and unpredictable experiences.
In 2003, Moeller’s very own Bob Hotze founded the Improv program. It all began when Mr. Hotze took a trip to an improv club in Chicago called “Improv Olympics.” He enjoyed the show so much he decided to start a program here at Moeller. In fact, Moeller’s improv show is structured very similarly to the Chicago show, and even borrows some of Improv Olympics' best games for Moeller’s own interpretation.
According to Mr. Hotze, no other high school at this time had an improv program. Because of the uniqueness of such a show, the first improv performance Moeller ever put on sold out on both nights and was a huge success. With James Balbach joining the improv crew in 2007, Moeller’s improv show only grew in popularity and diversity and became an amazing spectacle for all those lucky enough to purchase a ticket.
Nowadays, Moeller’s improv cast is loaded with talent. From seasoned veterans like Jonathan Breeze, Henry Meyer, Nathan Otten, AJ Rumely and Nick Mallow to new faces like Paul Shaffer and Jacob Hershisher, the team is very well balanced in all fields of humor. The team practices Sunday through Thursday from 4-7pm and has been working hard all through January.
Improv has always had a healthy career at Moeller, and part of the reason for its success is the pure fun it brings. Freshman and first year improv member Paul Shaffer commented, “It's how much fun I have with everyone. It doesn’t feel like I’m practicing for a big show; it feels like I’m playing silly games with my friends.”
Additionally, with an encouraging community of veterans and rookies alike, it is very easy to get into. Sophomore and first year improv member Jacob Hershisher adds, “My first day, I played in a game with someone I wasn’t super familiar with at the time. Even though I was new, we hit it off really well, and they made me feel accepted.” Hershisher also noted his favorite part of practice was “Kudos,” where each member went around and pointed out something someone did well.
Improv has blossomed into a wonderful program here at Moeller, and its success is found within its ability to be enjoyed by all ages. One huge part of improv that truly makes it a special sight is its use of audience participation. Whether it be through screaming out words or writing small scenes or quotes on notecards, improv keeps the viewers engaged and entertained. Three-year improv veteran Jonathan Breeze explains, “Being able to directly interact with us while we are on stage and working with the audience’s ideas to make it into an entertaining story rather than just an idea is how improv keeps the audience engaged.”
Overall, our improv program has grown into a group of dedicated students who work their hardest to put out one of the most unique viewing experiences Moeller has ever had. Make sure to look out for their performance dates, and snag a ticket if you can!