Jake Mace
Going to see The Improverts is like getting a big warm hug. No group has been so consistently funny at the Edinburgh Fringe, nor so funnily consistent. Associated with Edinburgh University, their ilk includes comedians like Miles Jupp, Humphrey Kerr and Maria Bamford. Now, a new generation of Improverts take to the stage to dazzle their audience with their quick-minded wit and infinite ability to entertain.
It is impossible to review The Improverts as a single instance – each show is radically different and that is what keeps the whole machine chugging. Broadly, they invite the audience to be a part of what could almost be their weekly Improv workshop. There are a number of games which force the players to think on their feet, including the much loved Space Jump and Freeze!
What has kept this particular band of merrymakers at the top of the EdFringe Improv billing is the sheer talent on offer. Each character that they create is not just a story moment, but a story – often a funny one as well. They’re willing to take every hit or dud on the chin and crack on in delivering an hour of pure joy.
This year’s performance, away from the troupe’s usual home at Bedlam theatre, took place outside in theSpaceUK’s Garden Theatre. In my opinion, this gave the whole show more of a festival vibe and made it more joyful than ever.
What has kept this team so consistent in their quality is the enviable sense of joy amongst everyone in the room. The tech team improvise along with bespoke lighting and sound design which never fails to get a laugh as we catch our breaths in the short interludes. I had the pleasure of seeing one of their all-women players’ shows and innovations such as this keep the Fringe on it’s toes and always wanting more.
Go and see The Improverts. While their run at this year’s Fringe has ended, they perform every Friday if you stay in Edinburgh. If not, you can be sure that they’ll be back next year to make you laugh, cry and occasionally slap the ground.
End scene!
