Improv troupe joins forces with Actors Collaborative for comedy festival

From ACTORS COLLABORATIVE TOLEDO

Actors Collaborative Toledo (ACT) and local improv troupe Smellybutton will present “Chapel Groans Improv-enomenon,” running Friday, Oct. 3 through Sunday, Oct.r 5, at The Chapel at Trinity Episcopal Church, 316 Adams Street, downtown Toledo.

This three-day celebration of comedy will feature short-form games, sketch comedy, and long-form improv from some of the area’s most talented performers. 

Hosted and organized by Smellybutton—a group of improvisers who met through Glass City Improv classes—the festival marks an exciting milestone in the growth of Toledo’s comedy scene. 

Smellybutton members include Marissa Rex, Katie Burkhardt, Jeremy Natter, Mike Santry, Emily Garrow, Chris Hanley, Bradley Hall, Scott Peterson, and John Eikost.

Local improviser Nira Kadakia shared what improv has meant personally: “Improv has been the best thing I’ve done for myself in a long time. It has led me to find new friends and the courage to step out of my comfort zone. I am still fairly new to improv, but after completing three levels of class and showcases with Glass City Improv, I feel comfortable being on the stage. Improv has been the most fun hobby I have ever pursued, and I am eager for any chance to continue my growth in it.”

Festival schedule:

  • Friday, October 3 at 8 p.m. – Short Form Improv Games &  Sketch Comedy
  • Saturday, October 4 at 8 p.m. – Long Form Improv featuring multiple local groups
  • Sunday, October 5 at 3 p.m. – Long Form Improv Performances & All In Jam

Tickets: $10 per night or see all three nights for $25. Seating is limited. Click for advanced tickets.