Asheville – If comedy and quick-witted banter is the way to your funny bone, then it’s time to mark those calendars for the Asheville Improv Festival 2024, happening from October 9 to 12. This year’s festival promises a delightfully diverse mix of laughter and creativity, showcasing the best of unscripted comedy.
A Celebration of Spontaneity and Community
Hosted by Double Dip Productions, the festival will feature over 35 improv teams from across the country, with plenty of local talent in the mix. George Awad, one of the festival’s organizers, shared a bit about its origins and its impact on the community. “I used to be a partner in the Asheville Improv Collective, which started in 2016. We produced the first Improv Festival in 2019, and it really rejuvenated the improv community here,” he said.
Awad emphasized that the festival not only brings performers together but also introduces audiences to a variety of improv styles that go beyond the familiar setups of shows like “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” “It was great to show people that there is an improv community and a whole array of improv forms,” he added.
Headliners That Will Leave Everyone in Stitches
This year’s lineup features an impressive roster of headliners, including Mick Napier and Jennifer Estlin from Chicago’s Annoyance Theatre, as well as Carla & Craig Cackowski from Los Angeles. The festival will also showcase the acclaimed Chicago troupe 3Peat, Jill Bernard from Minneapolis’s HUGE Theatre, Ithamar Enriquez, known for his physical comedy, and Hodgepodge, an all-female team of Chicago improv legends. Local favorites like Reasonably Priced Babies will also take the stage.
These headliners won’t just perform; they will also lead master-class workshops on various aspects of improv. “We’re bringing in top-tier talent who write for TV shows and movies,” Awad explained. “They’ll be doing headlining shows and teaching workshops covering everything from character creation to physical comedy.”
Workshops Designed for All Skill Levels
The workshops are a key component of the festival, offering attendees the chance to learn from the best in the business. For instance, Jill Bernard will conduct a workshop focused on creating realistic characters and maintaining them on stage. Ithamar Enriquez will lead sessions on physical comedy, encouraging participants to move beyond static performances.
Awad highlighted the diversity of topics available: “We have a wide array of topics covered, from character work to physicality in improv.” These sessions are designed to cater to all skill levels, making it an inclusive experience for both seasoned performers and newcomers alike.
A Packed Schedule of Performances
The festival kicks off with performances at iconic venues throughout Asheville. The Asheville Music Hall will host opening night on October 9, followed by shows at Burial’s Eulogy on October 10, and concluding at The Grey Eagle on October 11-12. Each night will feature multiple performances, ensuring plenty of laughter for everyone. After each evening of shows, there will be themed afterparties with unique entertainment, adding an extra layer of fun to the festival experience.
Awad shared details about the performance schedule: “We have shows lined up every night with different time slots. It’s going to be a packed schedule with something for everyone.”
Get Tickets Early!
Festival passes went on sale August 1, with an early bird price of just $99 using promo code EARLY30. Individual show tickets became available starting August 28. For those interested in workshops, registration is already open.
For more information about the festival and to purchase tickets, visit [Asheville Improv Festival 2024](www.doubledipproductions.com/aif/about) or follow them on Instagram at @AshevilleImprovFest.
A Community Event Like No Other
The Asheville Improv Festival is more than just a series of performances; it’s a celebration of community and creativity. Awad expressed excitement about bringing people together through laughter: “We wanted to create a big community party that showcases the joy of improv.”
With its unique blend of performances and workshops, this year’s festival promises to be an unforgettable experience for both performers and audiences alike. Whether someone is an improv enthusiast or just looking for a good laugh, the Asheville Improv Festival is sure to deliver.
So gather friends, grab tickets, and get ready for four days filled with comedic inventiveness!