10.76°C Let’s get one thing clear from the start. Improvisational comedy, or improv, is really difficult. It’s a form of comedy where performers create scenes, characters, and dialogue spontaneously without a script. It’s often based on audience suggestions, ensuring that each show is unique. And, as I said, it’s really difficult. We have been spoiled by seeing it done at its best through TV shows like Whose Line Is It Anyway? and groups like The Comedy Store Players.
Screw Loose Improv is a group of local performers who have been learning this difficult craft for some time and who have had the courage to put on three shows at the Colchester Fringe at the wonderful Dragonfly Lounge. I saw the final performance and, to be honest, it was slightly underwhelming. The concept was good: nine convicts, all dressed in orange boiler suits, take the stand or stage and must improvise for a pardon. The audience is the jury. All fine so far. Eleanor Wilkinson, as the host and prison orderly, was energetic and upbeat, ensuring that the pace of the show didn’t drop. The swift sound effects and speedy musical additions by Richard Bland were spot on. The suggestions from the audience gave ample room for hilarious consequences to ensue – only they didn’t quite happen.
There were some funny moments, but I got the feeling that some of the participants weren’t quite ready to do an improv show, despite support and encouragement from the audience. That said, improv is one of the toughest forms of live performance. To be really good at it, you have to be as quick as a whip, as sharp as a needle and as witty as Oscar Wilde. Sometimes you need a couple of “get out of jail quick” cards when you’re stuck, like a cacophony of swear words, a dramatic gesture or a silly noise. It’s a skill that can be learned and strengthened with time, but there also has to be some inherent ability, and this group clearly has a strong foundation to build on.
I do wish Screw Loose Improv the best of luck as they develop their craft and hone their skills, as there was definitely some potential that can be tapped into and realised.
What this show proved, however, is that improv is not simple. In fact, it’s really difficult.
Review by Tim Young
