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HARRISONBURG, VA (Rocktown Now) — A local comedy improv group will perform Space Adventure! on Saturday, November 14 at Court Square Theater. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the show begins at 7:30 p.m.
According to Creator and Director Bethany Popelish, Space Adventure! tells a story and the plot is driven by a series of short comedy improv games, the kind where performers make things as they go with suggestions from the audience.
The idea for a space-themed show emerged from a conversation between Popelish and fellow improv actor Michael Reid about creating more opportunities for people interested in performing improv.
Popelish reportedly wanted to create something a bit different from the improv shows audiences might be familiar with. Instead of a series of unrelated comedy games or one continuous improvised play, Space Adventure! uses a series of comedy games to tell one unfolding story. Audience suggestions guide the adventure as the story takes on a life of its own.
When an opportunity to perform at Court Square Theater came along, the idea became a production. The cast had roughly two and a half months to develop the format, recruit other actors, and practice the improv games they would be playing for the audience.
“A cool idea came out of that conversation, but it took the dedication and insights of each cast member to bring it from an idea to the stage in such a short amount of time,” said Popelish.
The performance will also benefit VOICE, a volunteer community choir based in Harrisonburg. VOICE brings people together through a shared love of singing, creating a place for people to use their voices and be part of a musical community. VOICE hosts two benefit concerts each year to raise funds and awareness for the great work of other local nonprofits.
“It’s wonderful to be the beneficiary this time,” said Misty Newman, executive director of VOICE.
VOICE will have an information table at the theater where audience members can learn more about the organization and its work.
Popelish said Space Adventure! is grateful to Act One at Court Square Theater for making the performance possible.
A $5 donation is suggested at the door, and all proceeds will go to VOICE. The show may include adult humor and themes; parental discretion is advised.
To learn more about Space Adventure! visit their Facebook page.