Cleveland Improv Institute

Cleveland Jams 9/25/07

2007-09-26T09:15:00.000-07:00

As the temperature spiked near 90 for the last Tuesday of September, Cleveland Jams poured on its own heat and ignited the stage at The Powerhouse Pub for another incredible night of free improv comedy!

12 improv addicts came alive and proceeded to turn The Powerhouse Pub into what will now be known throughout Improv Circles as “The House that Improv Built”!

Group A
Don Mitri – Performer
Mary Faktor – Performer
Chris Waterman – Performer
Austin Nava – Performer
William Grossman – Performer
Kathy Dice – Performer

Group B
Mike Wypasek - Performer
Ron Fatica - Performer
Marjorie Preston - Performer
Andrew Jorgensen - Performer
Mike Synk - Performer
Mark McKenzie - Performer

2 improv groups were created for the evening. Both groups were given a 30 minute showcase and 4 shortform structures each to work within. Stuctures included all plays, limitation scenes, genre scenes and timed structures. It was a truly hilarious and inspired night of Shortform Improvisational Comedy!

Last night also saw the return of “CLP” Cleveland Longform Project! A suggestion of SEX was given. Each of the performers gave a truthful monologue that created the “table of contents” for the set. From that a series of inspired interconnected scenes were created and returned to throughout the course of the set. If you have never seen the Cleveland Longform Project…you are missing out! It is truly an improv event not to be missed!

CLP
Mark McKenzie
Chris Waterman
Don Mitri
Mike Wypasek
Austin Nava
Mary Faktor

Thank you to The Powerhouse Pub for another incredible night at one of the hottest venues in the city! Without your amazing support, Cleveland Jams could not exist. Mike Mercer and Joe our bartender…you guys truly inspire us!

Cleveland Jams is a free weekly Improv Comedy Event for everyone 18 and over…21 and over for alcohol. Cleveland Jams run from 8-10pm. Doors open at 7pm and sign up to jam is 7:30pm. Catch some of Clevelands best improvisers working unscripted and “without a net”! We look forward to seeing you at the next jam Tuesday October 2nd!

Cleveland Jams
Cleveland’s Taking Center Stage!

(216) 479-3353
www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com
www.myspace.com/clevelandjamsimprov
www.nauticaflats.com/events

The Powerhouse Pub
2000 Sycamore
(1st Floor – Powerhouse Building)
(West Bank of the Flats)
Cleveland, Ohio 44113

Cleveland Jams 9/18/07

2007-09-19T09:21:00.000-07:00

As the tribe continued its winning streak last night, Cleveland Jams hit one out of the park as well with another incredible free weekly Improv Comedy Jam! A total of 15 improv junkies descended upon The Powerhouse Pub in the Flats and proceeded to rock the stage and wow the crowd with a completely unscripted improv jam!

Group A
Mike Wypasek: Performer
Robyn Cooper: Performer
Chris Waterman: Performer
Mike Ivy: Performer
Marc Ehrenreich: Performer
William Grossman: Performer
Deena Nyer Mendlowitz: Performer
Don Mitri: Performer

Group B
Charles Moore: Performer
Marjorie Preston: Performer
Austin: Performer
Mike Synk: Performer
Andrew Jorgensen: Performer
Kathy Dice: Performer
Ron Fatica: Performer

We took a page from the vast playlist of shortform improv games to created this jam. We started off with an amazing game of Challenge with the topic of “Getting Stunned by a Taser Gun”. We then proceeded to pull out a few incredible style pieces, Worlds Worst, Limitation Scenes, some All Plays, NewSlips and a new structure called Special Effects.

A great night of free improvisational comedy was had by all. This was in part due to the wonderful people at The Powerhouse Pub. Thank you Mike Mercer and our fantastic bartender Joe. It’s the support of people like you, that allows improv comedy the opportunity to flourish and grow in our city! You guys are amazing!

Our next jam is Tuesday September 25th from 8-10pm. Doors open at The Powerhouse Pub at 7:00 pm. Sign up to jam is 7:30 pm. This is a free and open to the public weekly improv comedy event for everyone 18 and over…21 and over for alcohol. Safe, secure, lit parking is always available.

Information:
www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com
www.myspace.com/clevelandjamsimprov
www.nauticaflats.com/events
216-479-3353

Cleveland Jams
Cleveland’s Taking Center Stage!

Cleveland Jams 9/11/07

2007-09-12T07:32:00.000-07:00

As Tuesday night fell upon Cleveland, improvisers from all over the city were drawn to the Powerhouse Pub for a night of free hilarious and amazing improvisational comedy! The Powerhouse Pub in the Flats shook with excitement as jammers and audience members enjoyed a 2 hr improv comedy jam and still wanted more! 11 jammers took the stage and made it clear to everyone that Cleveland is definitely an Improv Comedy City!

Don Mitri: Performer
Chris Waterman: Performer
Robyn Cooper: Performer
Mike Synk: Performer
Tracy Cubbal: Performer
Andrew Jorgensen: Performer
Dan Breuler: Performer
Austin: Performer
Ron Fatica: Performer
Marjorie Preston: Performer
Charles Moore: Performer

The first set of the night included a wonderful array of fast paced/physical shortform games including: all plays, emotional styles, limitation structures and a new structure called “News Slips” that combined a news cast with the game structure “slips”. It was definitely not to be missed! Our second set of longform was equally powerful and absolutely amazing! One suggestion was given, “Live Free Or Die” and a 30 minute piece was created. 11 improvisers gave it there all, protected eachother on stage, created and brought back characters, relationships and scenes, utilized splits screens and created time dashes.

A major thank you to Mike Mercer, Joe the bartender and The Powerhouse Pub for another incredible night! It is your constant enthusiasm and support of local Improv Comedy Theater that keeps Clevelands Improv Commmunity growing each and every year. You guys are fantastic!

Our next jam is Tuesday Sept 18th! Doors open at the Powershouse Pub at 7pm. Show runs from 8-10pm. Cleveland Jams is a weekly free and open to the public improv comedy event. Everyone 18 and over are welcome…21 and over for alcohol. If you are curious or you have always wanted to try Improv Comedy, then step on stage with us or support the Cleveland Improv Comedy Community as an audience member. We look forward to seeing you at the next jam!

Information:
216-479-3353
www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com
www.myspace.com/clevelandjamsimprov

The Powerhouse Pub
2000 Sycamore
First Floor (Powerhouse Building)
Cleveland, Oh 44113

Cleveland Jams
Cleveland’s Taking Center Stage!

Cleveland Jams Comes Alive at The Powerhouse Pub!

2007-09-05T09:50:00.000-07:00

As the heat slowly moved back into our lives yesterday, so too did Clevelands Weekly Improv Comedy Jam! Last night Cleveland Jams began its run at The Powerhouse Pub on the West Bank of the Flats! Jammers took the stage and etched there names in history as the first weekly improv comedy jam to make its home at The Powerhouse Pub! Improvisers from all over the city reunited, shared hugs, memories and of course laughs all night long!

Jammers:
Ron Fatica: Performer
Dan Breuler: Performer
Marc Ehrenreich: Performer
Kimberly Pride: Performer
Deena Nyer Mendlowitz: Performer
Kathy Dice: Performer
James Lenahan: Performer
Matt Rosfelder: Performer
Tracy: Performer
William Grossman: Performer
Mike Synk: Performer
Marjorie Preston: Performer
Mike Wypasek: Performer
Don Mitri: Performer

The evening was spit into 2 sets. A physical and energized shortform set got the night off to an incredible start! Jammers worked together, supported, had eachothers back and created some fantastic improvised comedy! We worked within all play structures, style pieces, a great game of Challenge and Switch Left/Switch Right! In between our sets we had the honor of hearing live the hilarious singer, comedian Lou Marino. He is an incredible person still rocking well into his 70's! His style can best be described as Pat Daley-esque! We look forward to having him back! The night ended with an incredible montage piece that included all 14 improvisers. One suggestion of "TAXES" was offered up and a 30 minute improvised piece was formed.

BIG...BIG...BIG thanks to Mike Mercer and the entire staff of The Powerhouse Pub for there incredible generosity. We look forward to jamming each and every week! You guys rock! Thanks for your continued support of Improv Comedy in Cleveland. Our next jam is Tuesday Sept 11th! Doors open at 7pm and the show runs from 8-10pm. Sign up to jam is 7:30pm. Cleveland Jams is a free and open to the public weekly improv comedy event for everyone 18 and over...21 and over for alcohol.

Information:
216-479-3353
http://www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com/
www.myspace.com/clevelandjamsimprov
www.nauticaflats.com/events

We look forward to seeing you at the next jam!

CLEVELAND JAMS
Cleveland's Taking Center Stage!

Cleveland Jams Open at The Powerhouse Pub Sept 4th!

2007-08-30T05:32:00.000-07:00

Cleveland Jams...Clevelands Weekly Improv Comedy Jam proudly makes its debut at The Powerhouse Pub Tuesday September 4th!. The Powerhouse Pub is located in the historic Powerhouse building on the West Bank of the Flats.

Doors open for the jam at 7:00pm. Sign up to jam is 7:30pm. Cleveland Jams run from 8:00-10:00pm. Safe, secure, lit parking is always available. Cleveland Jams is a free and open to the public improv comedy event running every Tuesday evening at The Powerhouse Pub for everyone 18 and over...21 and over to purchase alcohol.

Catch some of Clevelands best and brigtest improvisers working unscripted and "without a net". Are you curious about improv comedy or have you always wanted to get on stage and try it out for yourself? Well then jump on stage with us, or support the Cleveland Improvisational Comedy Community as an audience member. Also sign up to win great giveaways to some of the hottest Powerhouse attractions and events. What will be given away? You will just have to come down and experience the night for yourself!

For information about Cleveland Jams:
(216) 479-3353
http://www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com/
www.myspace.com/clevelandjamsimprov

For information about all attractions and events at The Powerhouse:
www.nauticaflats.com/events

CLEVELAND JAMS
Cleveland's Taking Center Stage!

Improv Forever!

2007-07-04T09:44:00.000-07:00

What better way to express our independence and creativity than with another installment of high energy completely scriptless improv comedy done only as Cleveland Jams can do! 11 improvisers from all around descended upon the Bassa Vita Lounge in Lakewood and heated up the joint for the cities Tuesday night dose of comedy.

Don Mitri - Host/Performer
Ron Fatica - Performer
Robyn Copper - Performer
Marc Ehrenreich - Performer
Mike Synk - Performer
John Cesa - Performer
Marjorie Preston - Performer
Andrew Jorgensen - Performer
Dan Breuler - Performer
William Grossman - Performer
Mike Wypasek - Host/Performer

Our audience was treated to a short form set followed by 2 incredible long form sets! Each Longform group received one suggestion from the audience, followed it up with truthful monologues from each player which created each groups table of contents. From there a series of interconnecting scenes were created! If you never checked out a longform improv set…THEN YOU MUST…IT IS A BLAST!

Longform Group 1
Ron Fatica
Robyn Copper
Mike Synk
John Cesa
Mike Wypasek

Longform Group 2
Don Mitri
Dan Breuler
Andrew Jorgensen
Marjorie Preston
Marc Ehrenreich
William Grossman

As always a huge thank you to Bottoms Up and Bassa Vita for all there support of local Improv Comedy! Our next installment of Cleveland Jams will be on Tuesday July 17th at Bassa Vita located in Lakewood. Sign up to jam is at 7:45pm at Bassa. The jam is a free and open event for everyone 21 and over. Jump on stage with us or support Cleveland Improv as an audience member.

For more information check out:
http://www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com/ or www.myspace.com/clevelandjamsimprov

IMPROV…CLEVELAND IMPROV!

Cleveland Jams 6/19/07!

2007-06-20T06:35:00.000-07:00

Even with Cleveland’s sweltering heat and humidity, a room without air-conditioning could not squash “improv fever” from infecting everyone present last evening. A group of 17 improvisers descended upon the Bassa Vita Lounge and shook the stage for a night of high energy, physical and hilarious improv comedy!

Group A
Deena Nyer Mendlowitz – Host/Performer
Marjorie Preston – Performer
Kathie Dice – Performer
Mike Ivy – Performer
Liz Huff – Performer
Brian Trapp – Performer
Dan Howard – Performer
Marc Ehrenreich – Performer
John Cesa – Performer

Group B
Don Mitri – Host/Performer
Andrew Jorgensen – Performer
Ron Fatica – Performer
Dan Breuler – Performer
Mike Synk – Performer
Robyn Cooper – Performer
Chris Waterman – Performer
Matt Rosfelder – Performer

The crowd was treated to a night that included 11 structures ranging from all plays, style pieces, competition, 2-3-4 player scenes, limitation scenes and a veteran spotlight. The veteran scene was Walkout and each person on stage gets an everyday word. (the,this,and…) The scene begins and every time a players’ word is spoken they must enter or exit the scene and justify both. The night ended with a fantastic all play montage. The suggestion was “Dazed and Confused”. From that suggestion a series of different scenes were spawned.

Thanks to Bassa Vita for another great night of improv! Without you guys the jams couldn’t happen! Our next jam is Tuesday July 3rd . Sign up to jam is 7:45pm at Bassa Vita. Cleveland Jams is a free and open event for everyone 21 and over. Step on stage with us or support Cleveland Improv as an audience member! For more information check out: www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com and www.myspace.com/clevelandjamsimprov

CLEVELAND JAMS!IMPROV…CLEVELAND IMPROV

Cleveland Jams 4/10/07!

2007-04-11T05:51:00.000-07:00

With April 15th quickly approaching and more snow than sunshine in our forecast, a little comedy in our day is so needed. Last night at Bassa Vita, Cleveland Jams didn’t disappoint! A fantastic night of improv comedy was had by all who attended!

19 improvisers took the stage and proceeded to shake Bassa Vita to its foundation. Two teams rocked the house in a jam lasting 2 ½ hours. Audience members were treated to a jams that included: timed scenes, limitation scenes, style pieces, and all plays consisting of an hilarious and spirited game of Challenge hosted by our own Kimberly Pride and another installment of Improv Jeopardy hosted by our own Charles Moore.

Group A
Don Mitri – Host/Performer
Dan Breuler – Performer
Kathie Dice – Performer
Chris Waterman – Performer
Michael Ivy – Performer
Mark McKenzie – Performer
Andrew Jorgensen –Performer
Ron Fatica – Performer
Dan Howard – Performer
Kimberly Pride- Host/Performer

Group B
Charles Moore – Host/Performer
Becky Cummings – Performer
Deena Nyer Mendlowitz – Performer
William Grossman – Performer
Mike Synk – Performer
Steve Briggs – Performer
Josh Logan – Performer
Jim Lenahan – Performer
Mike Wypasek – Host/Performer

Thank you again Bassa Vita for another incredible night! It is your generosity that allows programs like Cleveland Jams to continue to grow and flourish in and around Cleveland! You guys are the best!

The night concluded with another set from the “Cleveland Longform Project”. CLP created another awesome longform from the single suggestion (pocketknife). From this truthful monologues presented our impressions of the suggestion and we proceeded to pull, stretch and intertwine different scenes together into a set lasting 45 minutes.

C.L.P. Ensemble
Mark McKenzie
Charles Moore
Chris Waterman
Mike Wypasek
Kimberly Pride
Don Mitri
Josh Logan
Steve Briggs

Our next jam is Tuesday 4/17/07. Sign up to jam is 7:45pm at Bassa Vita. Spots fill up quickly so come down early. Jump on stage with us or support Cleveland Jams and Cleveland Improv Comedy as an audience member. Cleveland Jams is a free and open improv event for everyone 21 and over.

Don’t forget to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Torque…Full Throttle Improv on Saturday May 5th 2007 at Bassa Vita. Torque is a new Cleveland Improv Comedy Troupe made up of a revolving ensemble of Cleveland improvisers!

Cinco de Mayo (Show)
Saturday 5/5/07
Bassa Vita Lounge (Lakewood)
8:30pm (Doors open at 7:30pm)
$5.00
Tickets:
Call (216) 479-3353
Online www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com
Door The day of the show
***Reservations are recommended***

For more information about Cleveland Jams check out www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com & www.myspace.com/clevelandjamsimprov
Become our friend and get connected to the Cleveland Improv Scene. Let’s talk Improv…Cleveland Improv!

We look forward to seeing you at the next jam and the show!

2007-03-28T08:39:00.000-07:00

As the last Tuesday of March made its debut, Cleveland Jams finished the month off in a flurry of incredible improv. No wonder why they call it March Madness! 19 jammers stepped on the stage of the Bassa Vita Lounge in Lakewood and let everyone know that Tuesday nights in Cleveland are Improv Comedy Nights! Two fantastic groups wowed the crowd and their fellow improvisers with a jam lasting 1 ½ hours! The nights crowd were treated to a wide spectrum of structures including: Limitation Scenes, Style pieces, a Poetry Corner about The Steelers, Emotional Fairytale, Take That Back, Show Me That, Slips and an amazing round of Challenge stemming from the topic Anna Nicole Smith.

Group A
Don Mitri – Host/Performer
Kathie Dice – Performer
William Grossman – Performer
Dan Breuler – Performer
Ron Fatica – Performer
Chris Waterman – Performer
Mark McKenzie – Performer
John Chesney – Performer
Marjorie Preston – Performer

Group B
Kimberly Pride – Host/Performer
Mike Wypasek – Host/Performer
Andrew Jorgensen – Performer
Steve Briggs – Performer
Jim Lenahan – Performer
Karen Miller – Performer
Deena Nyer Mendlowitz – Performer
Mike Synk – Performer
Andrew Craze – Performer
Josh Logan – Performer

A huge thank you to the Bassa Vita Lounge and Bottoms Up of Lakewood for giving Cleveland Jams the opportunity to work, play and entertain for free every week. You guys really are an amazing bunch!

The night concluded with another installment of the, “CLEVELAND LONGFORM PROJECT”. C.L.P. took the stage and pulled apart the suggestion, “Neither a borrower nor a lender be” for an amazing longform lasting 40 minutes. With most longform ensembles ranging from 6-8 performers, we introduced a cast that totaled 10. Needless to say a larger group proved extremely successful and will be used again!

3/28/07 Cleveland Longform Project Ensemble
Steve Briggs
Deena Nyer Mendlowitz
Don Mitri
Kimberly Pride
Chris Waterman
Mark McKenzie
Mike Wypasek
Andrew Craze
Josh Logan
John Chesney

Our next jam is Tuesday 4/3 at the Bassa Vita Lounge. Sign up to jam is 7:45pm. Spots fill up quickly so come down early. Come and be a part of Cleveland’s Newest Tuesday Night Out! Cleveland Jams is a free and open weekly improv comedy jam for everyone 21 and over. Jump on stage with us or support Cleveland Jams and Cleveland Improv Comedy as an audience member.

For more information about Cleveland Jams log onto www.myspace.com/clevelandjamsimprov
Become our friend and get connected to the Cleveland Improv Community! Let's talk Improv...Cleveland Improv!

BIG NEWS!
Come celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Torque…Full Throttle Improv. Torque is Cleveland’s Longform Improv Comedy Troupe. Get a taste of Chicago Improv done Cleveland Style! This show is not to be missed!

Where: Bassa Vita Lounge (Lakewood)
When: May 5, 2007
Time: 8:30pm (doors open at 7:30pm)
Cost: $5.00
**To reserve tickets call 216-479-3353, for online reservations log onto www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com **

We look forward to seeing you at the next Cleveland Jams!

Cleveland Jams 3/20/07

2007-03-21T08:30:00.000-07:00

Does the sun and warmer temperatures make you feel better? Well not alone but when they are paired up with Cleveland Jams on Tuesday evenings, everything definitely gets better! This past Tuesday was no exception. The weather improved and another installment of Cleveland Jams took place. A total of seventeen performers grabbed hold of the Bassa Vita Stage in Lakewood and shredded it with an amazing jam lasting 2 ½ hours.

Group A
Don Mitri - Host/Performer
Mark Ehrenreich - Performer
Kathie Dice - Performer
Dan Breuler - Performer
Michael Ivy - Performer
Mike Synk - Performer
Mark McKenzie - Performer
William Grossman - Performer

Group B
Charles Moore - Host/Performer
Liz Huff - Performer
Jim Lenahan - Performer
Dan Howard - Performer
Ron Fatica - Performer
Cindy Zitter - Performer
Chris Waterman - Performer
Marjorie Preston - Performer
Kimberly Pride - Host/Performer

The evening included an amazing array of game structures ranging from an unbelievable Poets Corner to Emotional Symphony to a fantastic Jeopardy competition, an unforgettable Day in the Life and a highly spirited, hilarious and energized game of Challenge hosted by Kimberly Pride!

A special thanks and a huge shout out to the Bassa Vita Lounge in Lakewood for another incredible night of great food, drink and fantastic sponsorship of Cleveland Jams! Everything that you do is so very appreciated!

At the end of the night our audience and jammers were treated to another installment of Cleveland’s Longform Project. The ensemble took the stage for a 45 minute Longform stemming from the given suggestion…“ink pen”. It was definitely not to be missed!

Longform Ensemble
Charles Moore
Kimberly Pride
Chris Waterman
Mark McKenzie
Don Mitri

Cleveland Jams next jam is Tuesday 3/27/07. Sign up to jam is Tuesday 7:45pm at Bassa Vita. Spots fill up quickly, so come down early. Jump on stage with us or support Cleveland Jams and Cleveland Improv as an audience member. Cleveland Jams is a Free and Open weekly comedy jam for everyone 21 and over! Stay with us after the jam for Cleveland’s Longform Project. Get a taste of Chicago Improv done Cleveland Style! Don’t miss it…it’s going to be a blast! Be a part of Cleveland’s Newest Tuesday Night Out!

For more information log onto http://www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com/ or call 216 479-3353. Also check out our myspace page www.myspace.com/clevelandjamsimprov Become our friend and get connected to the Cleveland Improv Scene. Let’s talk Improv…Cleveland Improv! We look forward to seeing you at the next jam!

Cleveland Jams! 2/20/07

2007-02-21T06:38:00.000-08:00

The sun broke through the clouds and began to melt the vast tundra known as Cleveland Ohio. People began to open doors and come out of their homes. They realized that there was more to do in life than watch T.V. play video games and eat left overs. There was improv comedy to be had and Cleveland Jams was it's beacon of light directing the masses to the Bassa Vita Lounge last night.

An impressive 20 jammers from all over Cleveland, Akron and surrounding cities came down to Bassa Vita and shook the stage for a energized night of improv that lasted over 2 hrs! Our amazing audience was treated to an incredible array of structures including: Movie Styles to the Olympics to Limitation scenes and to All Play structures.
Big thanks to Bassa Vita for allowing us to learn, play and entertain every week for free!

At the end of the night our audience and jammers were introduced to our new Longform Montage Structure. We had some of the best seasoned Improv actors/actresses working together (some for the first time) and introducing Cleveland to Chicago Style Improv Comedy!

Players included:
Charles Moore
Deena Nyer Mendlowitz
Don Mitri
Kimberly Pride
Joshua Logan
Steve Briggs

This 25 minute Longform began with 1 suggestion and intertwined each player within a series of scenes. It was powerful, fun and always a blast!

Our next jam is Tuesday 2/27/07 from 8-9:30pm Sign up to participate is 7:45pm at Bassa Vita. Spots fill up quickly so come down early! Everyone 21 and over are welcome to watch, play and enjoy! For more information about Cleveland Jams check us out at our website www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com or our new myspace page at www.myspace.com/clevelandjamsimprov Become our friend and get connected to the Cleveland Improv Community. Let's talk Improv...Cleveland Improv!

COME ON DOWN...GET ON STAGE!

Cleveland Jams! 2/6/07

2007-02-07T06:10:00.000-08:00

As Dick Goddard warned us all of the frigid cold temperatures and over 400 hundred schools across the area closed there doors, die-hard Cleveland Jams! participants threw open there front doors, walked into the cold dark night, didn't even bother zipping up coats, threw caution to the wind and made the trek to Bassa Vita for Tuesday Night Improv Comedy!

An amazing 23 jammers from the eastside, westside and all points in between showed up ready to heat things up on the Bassa Vita Stage! We were blessed with newcomers, seasoned performers and standups to grace the stage last night for a Power-Shot of Free Improv Comedy! As jammers and audience members began to fill up the Bassa Vita Lounge, they were treated to incredible high energy music supplied by our musical coordinator and cinema world traveler Charles Moore!

Our amazing, growing and devoted audience witnessed an improv jam that peeled the paint off the walls at Bassa Vita! They were treated to 11 structures including all plays, emotion scenes, limitation scenes, genre/style scenes, dubbing scenes, a truly energized take on WorldsWorst and First Line Last Line which was hosted by Kimberly Pride and one particular structure that revolved 5 different jammers through 5 different scenes with one "through-line theme" creating an incredible 25 absolutely specific and wonderful characters! Video cameras were taping the whole evening! Special thanks to Ron Fatica for filming segments of the jam that will be available on our myspace page for everyone to check out! Big props to Bassa Vita who went into overdrive and made sure that everyone needing great food and drink was not disappointed!

Cleveland Jams! next jam is Tuesday 2/13/07. Sign up to jam is Tuesday 7:45pm at Bassa Vita. Jump on stage with us or support Cleveland Improv as an audience member! Cleveland Jams! is a free event open to everyone interested in learning, watching and participating. For more information about Cleveland Jams! and our new Improv Workshop Series Improv Shots! that begins 2/22/07 log onto www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com or call 216-479-3353. Also check out our new Cleveland Jams! myspace page at www.myspace.com/clevelandjamsimprov Become our friend and get connected to the Cleveland Improv Community! Let's talk Improv...Cleveland Improv! We look forward to seeing you at the next jam!

Come on down...Get on stage!

Cleveland Jams! 1/30/07

2007-01-31T09:09:00.000-08:00

As I loaded up my sled with provisions, I kiss my wife goodbye and wiped the tears from her eyes! I screamed an almighty "MUSH!" to my pack of improv sled dogs and disappeared into the frigid snowy night heading towards home (Bassa Vita in Lakewood)!

A great beginning to an incredible story! The most amazing part is that it's all true...except for the sled, pack of improv sled dogs and my wife crying. She only cries if she has to miss "24" on Monday nights! What I am certain of last night is that it was 11 degrees, we were at Bassa Vita in Lakewood and Cleveland Jams! was melting the snow off the roof of the place!

We had more people on stage than we had degrees of temperature in the whole city. 16 die hard improvisers, stand ups and newcomers took the stage at Bassa Vita and didn't let a little thing like artic temperatures quiet there enthusiasm, dedication and fun! We switched up our jam run and instead of running rotating groups (a-b-c) we decided to combine everyone together in one group and literally shook the stage and Bassa Vita to its core foundation!

Our audience which never seems to amaze us didn't disappoint us on a night not fit for man nor beast! They made there way to Bassa Vita and drank, ate and supported Cleveland's newest Tuesday night out! As the show tore through the cold winters night, our crowd watched a jam that included 13 scenes including 2 person, 3 person, 4 person and all play structures!

Our next jam is Tuesday Feb 6th. Sign up to jam is Tuesday 7:45pm at Bassa Vita. For more information about Cleveland Jams and our new Improv Workshop Series "Improv Shots!" beginning Feb 22 with Elements of Improvisation log onto: www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com or call 216-479-3353.

Also check out our new Cleveland Jams! myspace page at www.myspace.com/clevelandjamsimprov
Check out our updated blog, new weekly jam picutres and news/events concerning the Cleveland Improv Community. Become our friend and get connected! Let's talk Improv...Cleveland Improv! Look forward to seeing you at our next jam!

Come on down...Get on stage!

Cleveland Jams! 1/23/07

2007-01-24T05:46:00.000-08:00

Celebrating 2 months of Improv Jams at Bassa Vita, Cleveland Jams roared through the dark of night and delivered another adrenaline rushed, physically inspired evening of hilarious Improv! A total of 23 improvisers took the stage, tore the roof off the joint and brought Improv to a new level! The jam featured a grab bag of Seasoned Improvisers, Stand-ups and Newcomers to the Cleveland Improv Scene!

Our amazing and weekly growing audience was treated to an Improv Jam like no other. Our audience has the opportunity to witness 13 structures that included: Style scenes, All plays, Group Limitation scenes, Competition scenes and an incredible new approach to WorldsWorst hosted and directed by our own General Mike (Mr. Sunshine) Wypasek!

The Bassa Vita Lounge kept the great priced food and spirits flowing all night! A huge thanks to Bassa Vita for allowing Cleveland Jams the opportunity to jam every week for free! It's tremendous support from local business' like Bassa Vita that keeps Improv Comedy alive and growing in Cleveland! Our next jam is Tuesday 1/30/07! Sign up to participate in the jam is Tuesday 7:45pm at Bassa Vita! Spot fill up quickly so come on down early!

For more information about Cleveland Jams! call: (216) 479.3353 or log onto www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com and click on the Cleveland Jams icon.

Also check out our new myspace page at myspace.com/clevelandjamsimprov. Get connected to the Cleveland Improv Community and let's talk Improv...Cleveland Improv!
We look forward to seeing you at our next jam!

COME ON DOWN...GET ON STAGE!

Cleveland Jams! 1/16/07

2007-01-17T05:47:00.000-08:00

As the sun broke over Cleveland Tuesday morning, and a blizzard filled the air it looked as though Improv would be silenced that evening at Bassa Vita.... Oh who am I kidding, Improv in Cleveland can never be silenced by the weather or anything else!

Cleveland Jams! took the stage at the Bassa Vita Lounge with an impressive 23 performers comprising a diverse group of stand-ups, improvisers and newcomers to the Cleveland Improv Scene! The jam shook the stage of Bassa Vita for a huge night of Free Improv Comedy lasting over 2 1/2 hours!

Our growing audience had the unique opportunity to witness over 14 structures including Time Dash Structures, Style Structures, All Plays and even a glimpse into the Everyday Olympics! The Bassa Vita Lounge who has been so generous with allowing us to put this wonderful event on every week for free did not disappoint our audience or our performers. Fantastice music was in the air, incredible food was being served and great drink specials were flowing all night. Cleveland Jams! is quickly becoming the next big Tuesday night out! Come on down to the Bassa Vita Lounge for appetizers before the jam and great drink specials throughout the night. Remember, the night doesn't end when the Improv stops! Stay with us and party at the Bassa Vita Lounge! For more information about the Bassa Vita Lounge including directions and other events log onto: www.bassavitalounge.com

Cleveland Jams! next jam is Tuesday 1/23/07! Sign in to participate is 7:45pm and spots fill up quickly! For more information about the jam call (216) 479-3353 or log onto: www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com
Also check out our new myspace page at www.myspace.com/clevelandjamsimprov. Let's get connected and let's talk Improv...Cleveland Improv! We look forward to seeing you at the next jam!

COME ON DOWN...GET ON STAGE!

Cleveland Jams! 1/9/07

2007-01-10T06:23:00.000-08:00

With the first snow fall of the new year and the "Buckeyes" running ice cold in the BCS Championship, Cleveland needed to heat things up and Cleveland Jams! did not disappoint! This past Tuesday's jam rocked the stage at the Bassa Vita Lounge in Lakewood!

Even blowing snow and frigid temperatures couldn't crush the spirit and excitement of Improv Comedy in Cleveland. Cleveland Jams! took the stage with the biggest turnout we have had so far. A total of 26 improvisers, stand-up and new-comers participated in a fast, physical and absolutely hilarious jam set that lasted 2 hours and encompassed 14 different stuctures.

Our ever - growing weekly audience was treated to old favorites as well as new structures ranging from Replay scenes to musical (non-speaking scenes) to obstacle driven scenes and everything in between!

A big thanks to the Bassa Vita Lounge for allowing us to put this event on every week for free. Our next jam is Tuesday 1/16/07! Come down and get on stage with us or support Cleveland Improv as an audience member! Come and see why Cleveland Jams! is the cities newest Tuesday night out! Shake off the winter blues and laugh your ass off with us at one of the hottest clubs in the city the Bassa Vita Lounge! Enjoy a night out and indulge your appetite on great food, awesome drink specials at fantastic prices and witness some of the best and newest free improv comedy that you will see anywhere in Cleveland! Remember the night doesn't end after the improv stops. Stay with us at Bassa Vita for great music, food and drinks into the night. Everyone needs a little fun to get the week moving! For more information about the Bassa Vita Lounge log onto: www.bassavitalounge.com

Sign up to participate in each jam is every Tuesday 7:45pm at Bassa Vita. Spots fill up quickly! For more information about the Cleveland Jams! you can call 216-479-3353 or check us out at www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com

Also check out our new myspace page: myspace.com/clevelandjamsimprov Check out our weekly new pictures of the jams and what Cleveland Jams is all about. Join us and be our friend! Let's get connected and let's talk Improv...Cleveland Improv!

Come On Down...Get On Stage!

Cleveland Jams! #4 12/26

2006-12-27T08:30:00.000-08:00

What an incredible night of Improv Comedy down at Bassa Vita! We had over 20 improv actors and actresses from Cleveland, Chicago, Detroit and New York! The jam ran a little over our regular time but no one seemed to mind at all. The alcohol was flowing and people were having an incredible time and laughing there butts off on a cold December night in Cleveland!

We started Cleveland Jams! on Dec 5th and had a crowd of (1) and in just 3 short weeks we had almost a complete sellout of the Bassa Vita Lounge last evening! It just goes to show that interest in Cleveland Improv is alive and growing everyday! Our audience had the unique opportunity to see 3 different groups perform 14 different structures ranging from all player competitions, style pieces, soap operas, emotional fairytales, musicly inspired silent scenes and straight group scenes!

The next Cleveland Jams! improv jam will be the first Tuesday of the new year Tuesday 1/2/07! Ring in the New Year at the Bassa Vita Lounge in Lakewood. Enjoy great food, drink specials at awesome prices and some of the newest and best Free Improv Comedy you will see anywhere in Cleveland! For more information about Bassa Vita including driving directions and upcoming events log onto: www.bassavitalounge.com .

Cleveland Jams! is a free and open weekly improv comedy jam. Jump on stage with us or support Cleveland Improv as an audience member. Sign up to jam is every Tuesday 7:45pm at Bassa Vita. (Spots fill up quickly!) For more information about the jams call: (216) 479-3353 or log onto: www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com and click on the Cleveland Jams icon! We look forward to seeing you at the next Cleveland Jams! on Tuesday 1/2/07!

Come on down...Get on stage!

Cleveland Jams! #3 12/19

2006-12-20T05:10:00.000-08:00

This past Tuesday night was cold outside, but at the Bassa Vita Lounge in the basement of Bottoms Up in Lakewood Improv Comedy ruled it was HOT!

We had an amazing turnout for the jams. Over 20 improvisers came down to play together and have a blast. We added another group and had three incredible rounds that turned the Bassa Vita Lounge upside down! We had veteran improvisers of the Cleveland Improv Scene, Stand ups and fresh new faces to the improv scene all working, learning and playing together side by side on the stage at the Bassa Vita Lounge.

We introduced new musical game structures created by Charles Moore. We brought back some favorites games from our past and introduced some new games from the vast archives of Improv Games and Structures being used across the country today!

The crowd for the evening was incredible! Each week we increase our crowd size and this past Tuesday was no exception! We had a fantastic turnout and look forward to it growing throughout the weeks! Everyone wanted to contribute and be a part of the evening.

Cleveland Jams! next jam is Tuesday 12/26! Come on down and be a part of a growing weekly Improv Cleveland Tradition! Cleveland Jams! is a free and open weekly improv jam! Jump up on stage with us or support Cleveland Improv as an audience member and laugh your ass off while enjoying fantastic food and drink specials at amazing prices and witness some of the newest and best FREE IMPROV you will see anywhere in Cleveland! To find out more about the Bassa Vita Lounge including travel directions, events and background on the club log onto: www.bassavitalounge.com

Sign up to jam is every tuesday evening at 7:45pm at Bassa Vita! For more information about Cleveland Jams! log onto: www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com or call 216-479-3353.

We look forward to seeing you there next Tuesday 12/26!

Come on down...Get on stage!

CLEVELAND JAMS #2 AND COUNTING! (12/12/06)

2006-12-13T06:32:00.000-08:00

CLEVELAND JAMS! this past tuesday night was a great success. Our crowd and number of improvisers significantly increased from our first tuesday jam! What our audience witnessed this past tuesday was a wonderful mix of improv actors, standups and fresh new faces to the improv community working and learning together on the Bassa Vita stage! There was an incredible spirit and energy in the room that could be felt by all who were present!

These jams are open to everyone, so come on done and get on stage or support Cleveland Improv by being an audience member. What is great is that CLEVELAND JAMS! don't cost you a penny. They are free for everyone to enjoy! CLEVELAND JAMS! are held at the groovy and intimate Bassa Vita Lounge in Lakewood. Bassa Vita Lounge is located underneath Bottoms Up at 1572 W 117th St. Lakewood, Ohio 44107. Come down to Bassa Vita and indulge your appetite with fantastic food and great drinks in a smoke free environment while enjoying some of the best and rawest free improv comedy you are going to see in Cleveland! Check out all that Bassa Vita has to offer at www.bassavitalounge.com

For more information about CLEVELAND JAMS! check out www.clevelandimprovinsitute.com or call (216) 479-3353. CLEVELAND JAMS! is about having a blast and learning this incredible art form from each other. Our next jam is tuesday Dec 19th at Bassa Vita! Sign up to participate in the jam is 7:45pm at Bassa Vita. The jams run from 8:00 - 9:30pm. We look forward to seeing you there!

COME ON DOWN...GET ON STAGE!

CLEVELAND JAMS!

2006-12-10T05:04:00.000-08:00

Improv Jams return to the Bassa Vita Lounge every Tuesday evening from 8:00 - 9:30pm beginning Dec 5th. Cleveland Jams!...Cleveland's Weekly Improv Comedy Jam brings together members of the Improv Community to train side by side on stage in a fun, open, positive learning environment. Cleveland Jams are free and open to everyone interested in participating as well as watching the jams. Sign up to participate in the jams is 7:45pm. Cleveland Jams are held at the groovy and intimate Bassa Vita Lounge in Lakewood. For more information about Bassa Vita and the many events offered there visit them at www.bassavitalounge.com Cleveland Jams are about having a blast and learning this powerful art form from each other! COME ON DOWN...GET ON STAGE!

TORQUE IMPROV IS SET!

2006-09-27T12:00:00.000-07:00

Through auditions and callbacks Cleveland's Newest Improv Troupe is finally set!

Cast of Torque:

Don Mitri

Charles Moore

Kimberly Pride

Brian Diehl

Maggie Rusnak

Mike Wypasek

Torque grabs hold of the improvisational theater artform and turns it upside down. We reform and recreate improv and present it in a way that is truly unique, exciting and hilarious! Our goal for Torque is to present shows that awaken the mind and creative energy and show the awesome and powerful potential that comes from 6 people working on stage as 1!

Torque is ecstatic to have Marc Moritz at the helm as Director and Mitchell Fields as Acting Coach! Torque is presently in rehearsals gearing up for our opening performances. For more information about the group, our new website or if you would like to be put on Torque's mailing list, email us at torqueimprov@aol.com

TORQUE

FULL THOTTLE IMPROV!

IMPROV HAS COME TO A FORK IN THE ROAD...

HOLD ON TIGHT FOR THE RIDE!

TORQUE AUDITIONS AND IMPROV CLASSES!

2006-09-13T06:25:00.000-07:00

TORQUE...FULL THROTTLE IMPROV! Cleveland's newest Improvisational Comedy Theater Troupe will be holding auditions for its performing cast on Saturday September 16th from 10 - 1pm at the historic Hermit Club in the legendary performing arts district of downtown Cleveland! Torque is being directed by Marc Moritz and coached by Mitchell Fields! Bring with you a headshot and resume. Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes for the audition. Call times are filling up fast so call 216-479-3353 and confirm your audition spot!

FALL SESSION OF IMPROV CLASSES will begin on Oct 16th through Dec 7! Classes offered will be Beginning Improvisation on Monday and Tuesday evenings from 7-9:30pm and Conservatory with specific instruction on The Harold on Thursday evenings from 7-9:30pm. All classes are $160/8 week session.

For more information regarding Torque and Classes check them out at www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com

NEW IMPROV TROUPE!

2006-07-02T17:41:00.000-07:00

A new Improv Troupe is coming to Cleveland.

TORQUE... FULL THROTTLE IMPROV!

Torque will be the house Longform Improv performing troupe of The Hermit Club. To fill spots within the group currently open, auditions will be held at The Hermit Club. Audition dates, times and all information will be coming soon. For more information please email us at torqueimprov@aol.com The Hermit Club houses a 125 seat theater, full bar service and restaurant. It is located on Chester Ave in the heart of Cleveland's Theater District.

Improv in Cleveland has come to a fork in the road...

"HOLD ON TIGHT FOR THE RIDE!"

Classes and More!

2006-05-17T18:02:00.000-07:00

Well it feels like summer in Cleveland is finally here and we are warming up! What better way to kick the summer off than with an exciting, fun and challenging Improv Class at the Cleveland Improv Institute. Summer session runs from June 26th through August 17th. We have 3 incredible classes being offered. For our new students ready to start there Improv journey, we are offering our Step I Beginning Improv class on Monday Evenings. This class will be taught by Marc Moritz. For our Step I returning students we will be offering Step II Intermediate Improv Class on Tuesday Evenings. This class will be taught by Jeffrey Lyn Hall. Finally for our Step II Class returnees we are offering Step III Advanced Improv Class on Thursday Evenings. This class will be taught by Mitchell Fields. All classes cost $160.00 per 8 week session. Class payments are due by June 24th. For more information about this session, to be put on our mailing list or to register for a class, you can call 216-479-3353 or email treeblanch@aol.com
You can also find a complete description about this session and all information regarding the Cleveland Improv Institute, by logging onto www.clevelandimprovinstitute.com

More shows within the Great Hall Performance Series are scheduled to come, so keep an eye out in the near future! Also information about the Improv Troupe is close to public announcement! This will be a troupe like no other in the City. I have been in talks with our troupes director and we will soon be able to unveil this project. The wait is almost over and more information regarding auditions, group mission statement and direction of the troupe will be announced shortly. There are big plans for the Cleveland Improv Institute in the near future. We believe as so many do that Cleveland is on the verge of becoming the next major hub for Improvisational Comedy Theater in this country. The Incredible Improv Community in Cleveland is growing by leaps and bounds with each passing day and so are we.

Cleveland Improv Institute
Improv...Cleveland Improv!

SUMMER IMPROV CLASSES AND MORE!

2006-04-24T13:50:00.000-07:00

To everyone that caught The Great Hall Performance Series evening with Doug Stanhope, that was a fantastic show! The Hermit Club is quickly becoming one of the hottest venues in Cleveland for incredible local and national entertainment! This show could not have been possible without the hard work and organizational effort of Mike Baker, Jeff Blanchard (Hearts of Darkness), Cleveland Yucks and The Hermit Club!

Summer is just around the corner and Summer Improv Classes will be announced shortly. Are you looking to sharpen your performance skills, expand your training background or try something completely new and exciting? Well we have the class you're looking for.

We are also in the final creative design stage of our Longform Improv Troupe. Audition dates/times and all information about this project will be announced in the near future!

Cleveland Improv Institute

Improv...Cleveland Improv!

Doug Stanhope Comes To The Hermit Club

2006-03-21T18:59:00.000-08:00

Doug Stanhope from Comedy Centrals "The Man Show" and countless appearences across the country at some of the biggest and best comedy venues and festivals will be performing one very incredible night at The Hermit Club!

He will be appearing April 22nd at 8pm as part of The Great Hall Performance Series . This show is presented by Hearts of Darkness (Mike Baker & Jeff Blanchard) and Cleveland Yucks in association with the Cleveland Improv Institute and The Hermit Club. Tickets are $16.00 and can be purchased online in advance.

For information regarding this show, check out the G.H.P.S. page on our website and also Hearts of Darkness at www.hearts-o-darkness.com and www.clevelandyucks.com for complete information and purchasing tickets online!

Reserve your tickets quickly because this incredible show will sell out fast!

The Project

2006-03-09T07:12:00.000-08:00

CLEVELAND IMPROV EXPERIMENT

Question: How far and where can one piece of information be taken and developed?

Answer: Where it ends up is anyones guess!

This project was created to present and chronical the natural, unexpected and ever-changing path and progression of suggestions, ideas, scenes, sketches and themes through the performances within three distinctive Improv Comedy approaches:

ShortForm Improv (Game Oriented) (1st Show)
Sketch Comedy (2nd Show)
LongForm Improv (Harold) (3rd Show)

3 Completely Different Improv Shows
3 Completely Different Improv Performing Teams
3 Completely Different Journeys From The Same Material

Interested? More information coming soon!

Join us on the edge!

Cleveland Improv Institute

LongForm Improv...Cleveland Style!

What's New!

2006-03-08T14:31:00.000-08:00

This blog will provide special daily/weekly information regarding upcoming class sessions, guest instructors, Cleveland Improv Experiment Information, Great Hall Performance Series Show Dates and so much more!

There is a new Improv Path being constructed within the Cleveland Improv Community!

Join us on the edge!

CLEVELAND IMPROV INSTITUTE

LongForm Improv...Cleveland Style!