Improv group back in time for Halloween antics

Improvisational comedy takes an interactive approach with the return of the Antics comedy troupe, just in time for the annual Halloween costume show.

The group started as a university club, said club founder John Terry. Terry founded the group in 2008 before moving to Nebraska.

“As we got more developed, we changed our name to the Antics, and then as we got to the Antics and stuff, we broke away from the club and started performing more professionally at a venue every Friday night,” Terry said. “So we have USU Improv Club and then the Antics.”

Though there was some confusion over the split between the Antics and the Utah State improv club, Terry said there was no break, they just “grew and split off.”

Spencer Barry, a junior in communication studies, joined the group in 2008. After being introduced to the group by a friend, Barry went on to co-manage with Liz Morley, who graduated last year with a degree in general studies. Morley, like Barry, joined in 2008. Though Morley had never had no previous improv experience, she said she enjoyed it immediately.

“It was really fun,” Morley said. “I just like performing.”

Barry said the grow brings people together and creates bonds.

“Some of the friendships that I’ve made have been really good, and that’s just really helpful,” Barry said. “It’s a good stress reliever.”

The group is highly interactive with the audience, encouraging all age groups to attend due to the family friendly skits and laughs. The group maintains a wholesome feel, Terry said.

“It’s a family-friendly improv group,” Terry said. “There’s no swearing, no dirty jokes. We encourage families to come. Improv does get a rep of, you know, you go get alcohol, people get a little tipsy and want to hear dirty jokes. That’s the cop-out, I would say.”

Barry said the audience interaction is is favorite part.

“When you’re on stage and you’re just up there and you’re creating something together,” he said. “We’re making something with the audience. It’s a really unique experience. It’s different every time. It’s just really rewarding to have a show where you feel good about it.”

Though the shows are for entertainment, those involved can also gain vital life skills, Terry said.

“The idea behind the Antics was that we wanted to be a student organization that teaches improv to people and gives them good social life skills that will help them through everyday life, public speaking, things like that,” he said.

Barry said the group helps students develop creative skills as well.

“It’s a really good thing for a lot of reasons,” he said. “It’s something that’s really good for developing creativity and developing communication skills and learning to think on your feet. It’s something that can help you become a better person.”

Those interested in participating with Antics improv can attend monthly practice sessions. The group performs a couple times a month on Fridays at the Dansante theater. The troupe also holds workshops, comedy festival, charity shows and theme nights, such as the Masquerade show last weekend. Last year, a “No-shave November” show was put on, Barry said.

This weekend the group will perform annual Halloween show. Attendees can expect improvisors dressed in costumes, drawing for prizes as well as a costume contest, Morley said. Those who come to the show in costume also receive double entry into the drawing for prizes.

“It’s really cheap. It’s only five dollars,” Morley said. “It’s way more entertaining than a movie because it’s all live.” She said it was more entertaining than a night spent watching Netflix.

The Antics Halloween show is Friday at 9:30 p.m. at the Dansante theater on 59 S 100 W in Logan.

— sadiejherrera@aggiemail.usu.edu