You’re part of the Sydney Cranston Cup champion team, set to compete against Theatresports winners from around the country at the National Championships. Why do you have what it takes to win?
We’ve been preparing for endless minutes, we’ve learnt no lines and we’re completely 100 per cent ready to fail! Edan Lacey and Simon Greiner are beautiful boys and two of my favourite improvisers on the planet. I’d love nothing more than to see their faces when we win that big, outlandish cup.
Just how competitive is the Theatresports scene?
The competitive thing is purely for the audience. It adds to the fun of the night to cheer on your favourite team but as soon as we go backstage it’s all hugs and congratulations. That being said, we’re geared up to totally wipe the floor with our interstate rivals!
Does a good improviser have to be born with the talent, or can it be nurtured?
Anyone can become a good improviser. Some people are quicker in allowing themselves to take risks but I think the skill of thinking on your feet and trusting your scene partner can definitely be nurtured. It’s not about having the funniest lines or the best gags, it’s about being present and playful and committed.
To many people, improv comedy sounds like the scariest thing you can possibly do. Do you have any greater fears of your own?
My greatest fear is probably heights, which is ridiculous when you’re six-foot-one. The idea of having to remember lines is much more terrifying for me than making it up on the spot, because with a script there’s a chance you’ll get it wrong!
Is improv comedy currently in a golden age, or perhaps undergoing a revival on the comedy circuit?
Improv is certainly growing in recognition throughout the Sydney comedy circuit, particularly among stand-up comics. The success of comedians who got their start in improv, such as Susie Youssef and Steen Raskopoulos, is helping build a name for the art form. The thousand-seater Theatresports shows at the Enmore every year are testament to its consistent popularity.
Theatresports National Championships,takes placeas part of Sydney Comedy Festival 2016, atEnmore Theatre on Sunday April 24.
