Welcome to the feature which we are going to feature ever so often as part of Improv Corner. Ever so often. we are going to talk to improv acts about some of their favourite things about the comedy form. Today I speak to Millie from Ladies Who Improv. The troupe are opening the Greater Manchester Improv Festival this Friday (6th June) at 6.30pm. I spoke to Millie to find out all of the best things about improv.

What is your favourite:

Improv style –

Got to be short form! It’s our bread and butter. We enjoy playing a variety of classic improv games as well as making up some new ones. 

Short form game –

Scarf dating. A new one we created recently. It’s a bit like blind date but with the use of scarfs to create new characters and props.

Improv act –

ComedySportz Manchester are absolute pros and always create such great improv shows. 

Film or television show –

As a troupe we like so many different things and genres, from The Traitors, Modern Family to Howl’s Moving Castle. 

Venue to perform at –

The Lost Cat holds a special place in our heart because it is where we had our first sell out show.

Way to wind down –

After a show it would have to be a post drink and chat with our audience.  

Way to warm up –

We tend to play some games such as ‘what’s in the box’ or ‘cauldron’ as well as some physical warm up. Fun fact, one of us also has a tradition of always getting a hot chocolate pre show – without fail. 

Suggestion –

Too many to name! 

Show by another improv act –

Lots of great improv acts in Manchester at the moment, including Totally Improvised Musical and Absolute Onions. 

Memory of a show –

Well, our first ever show which was also a sell out so that’s a huge one for us. It was our first time performing as a formed troupe and we just had so much fun! We went out on stage with such energy, great characters and our audience feedback was amazing. Our guest slot at Fierce Bar during Christmas time, was also a lot of fun and even though half of us were sick/poorly it kind of added to the frantic energy of the show!  

Part of rehearsing a show –

As a troupe, we have a lot of fun and meeting for rehearsals is a great opportunity to laugh and joke and of course play some improv games! 

Thing about performing –

Nothing better than a live audience and their brilliant suggestions and responses

Quote –

‘A day without laughter is a day wasted’ by Charlie Chaplin 

Thing about the improv industry at the moment –

How much it’s growing and expanding especially in the Manchester area. It’s absolutely thrilling to be part of the Greater Manchester Improv Festival and to be surrounded by such talent and creativity. It’s going to be a great festival and not one to miss. So get your tickets while you can! 

Thing about this year so far?

We’ve been fortunate to have some great guest slots and our years only just beginning. We’re chuffed to be opening the Greater Manchester Improv Festival and it’s a true honor! 

Thank you again for all your support in reading and engaging with the website.

If you want to help support the website then you can! You can buy Holly a cup of tea (and a biscuit!)