To improvise is to completely make something up on the spot, whether it be a song, a character, or in some cases, an entire movie.  Improvisers create entire scenarios and shows from audience suggestion.  Nothing is predetermined, and the performers must support each other’s reality through a course of scene work.  Improvisation is also often incorporated into the broader study of acting technique and character development.   Most notable improvised works include Christopher Guest’s movies Waiting for Guffman and This is Spinal Tap, as well as television shows “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and “World Cup Comedy.”        

Improv troupes in Phoenix perform a variety of forms, and the number of troupes in the Phoenix area has grown exponentially over the past few years.  There are short-form troupes, which follow a series of games, much like “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” and there are long-form troupes that follow one theme or set of characters for the course of the entire show.  Still other troupes are more experimental, like local troupe The Remainders, who improvise a full musical each show.

Also of note is the Phoenix Neutrino Project.  Originating in New York, there are Neutrino projects across the United States.  This technologically enhanced improv performance consists of an improvised movie that is filmed in real time and run back to the performance venue to be played for the audience.  Performers from all over the Valley perform, produce, score and film the movie before the audience’s eyes! 

Back to the top

Duncan partnered with Bill Binder in 2002 to form an official business, and now the company produces and promotes performance events, primarily but not limited to improvisational theatre.  Some of the programs supported and promoted by CFWP include Apollo 12, The Remainders Musical Improv, and the annual Phoenix Improv Festival. This organization looks to serve as a support network for developing local artists, an educational resource for the community, and an integral part of Phoenix’s growing cultural movement. 

Back to the top

If you are not a member of the press and would like to be notified when tickets go on sale, please send your email address or phone number to \n This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it with a request to be informed.

(Your information is private and will NOT be used for any purpose other than informing you of ticket availability. You will not be placed on any other mailing lists unless you specifically request further information.)

Back to the top

Back to the top