By John Redmond
Contributing writer
Seoul City Improv, an improvisational comedy group, along the lines of popular TV show, 'Whose Line Is It Anyway', will celebrate one year of success with a special feature performance Friday at the Orange Tree in Haebangchon at 10.00pm.
The group has been going long and strong for one year and will be celebrating in style with a blowout show featuring all the best games and performers, plus prizes for audience members. Prizes include gift certificates to various Haebangchon and Itaewon bars and restaurants, plus tickets to NANTA.
The group was formed in July 2007 by American Margaret Whittum, a children's theatre director in Seoul who started the group as a creative outlet for the many talented performers in Seoul, as well as to have a new and different option in the Seoul night life. It has had over 40 members pass through so far, coming from countries such as the United States, Canada, France, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, and of course, Korea.
The group performs 1-2 times a month in Itaewon and Haebangchon, at bars like The Orange Tree, Rocky Mountain Tavern, and Woodstock. Their shows are always free, and audience participation is highly encouraged.
The format is short form improvisation. Many members have previous improvisation experience, but some have none. The show is open to all.
The featured games include old favorites like What?, Party Quirks, and Freeze, plus newer additions like Asides, Three's Company and If You Know What I Mean. The group has seen many talented performers pass through its hallowed halls in the past year, and they promise to have the stand out favorites for the August show. Of the 9 nine performers, six have been with the group since its inception. Korea's expatriate community is ever-changing and they've already said goodbye to many performers, and hello to several more. Two of our favorites are departing in August, however, and we will miss them dearly. This will be Elinza and Kev'O's last Show.
To get there go to Noksapyeong station (line 6), go out exit 2, walk down the hill, at the bottom of the hill there will be lots of kimchi pots on your left, keep walking straight (going uphill now), you will get to a little area with bars and restaurants. Indigo is on your right. Go to the second floor of Indigo - named the Orange Tree. The total walk time from the subway is about 10 minutes. The show will last about two hours, with two short intermissions.
After the show, the group will have a break in August.
Anyone can join the group. They perform regularly in the Itaewon and Haebangchon areas and are always looking for new talent. You don't need any experience to join, simply a desire to make people laugh and a commitment to rehearse and improve your skills. Rehearsals are typically twice a week. If you are interested in joining, or if you would like information about our upcoming shows, please email them at: seoulimprov@gmail.com