Opinion: Support The Antics
The Antics Comedy Improv, a Logan-based performance group, is closing up shop for the season, but students shouldn’t forget to check them out next month.
Every Friday night, the group performs at Dansante Event Venue at 59 S 100 W. Nearing the end of the year, the performers put on one last show and had an end-of-season giveaway for patrons.
The Antics have been around for over a decade, sprouting from the Utah State University Improv Troupe and eventually growing into a local business.
Shows usually take place from 7:30-9 p.m. and the standard admission price is $6 per person. Kids, ages eight and younger (and those that look eight or younger), will be admitted for free.
Karl Calderwood, the manager for The Antics, has worked for five years to produce their shows which include short-form skits and audience games.
“We are an excellent and affordable night out for the whole family,” Calderwood said. “A memorable and unique night out with great quality entertainment.”
Other members of The Antics include Alec Finely, who studies computer science at Bridgerland Technical College; Brittany Florshutz, who traveled and lived all over the Pacific before settling down during her time at USU; and Paul Roylance, who came to Utah for the sole purpose of joining The Antics.
Treyson Lyon, who is in charge of marketing and human resources for The Antics, said he works hard to promote their weekly performances.
“The Antics really give me a chance to get out and just have a great time building and creating new comedic scenes with a team that I have grown really close to, and providing entertainment to our amazing audiences,” Lyon said.
During a single season, The Antics provides several workshops for people to learn improv skills. The costs include $45 at the start of each session and $60 for the course fees-all non-refundable. Only 10 people will be allowed into one session and $15 is required to reserve a spot.
“When you pay for a workshop it is a four-week course. Each week on Wednesday at six we teach the basics and go over questions,” Calderwood said. “We should have one for January next but most months we will have a workshop course for groups who sign up.”
The Antics can also be hired for social events for the same length of time and format as normal shows. Prices range around $150. According to their website, they are regularly hired for things like fairs, weddings and company parties. Season passes for shows are $40, with payment plans available on Cash App, interest-free.
Despite these deals, services and seasonal giveaways, there are some Logan locals, like USU kinesiology major and senior Caleb Rasmussen, who do not think the city or people of Logan need to support The Antics.
“I’m definitely not interested in indie art groups. I get that some people may enjoy them, but they’re not my thing,” Rasmussen said.
On the other hand, psychology major and senior Marnie McDougal, loves to support independent art groups, saying that there should be more of them in order for people to have a more diverse understanding of the arts.
“It is a simple way to have a family-friendly group that doesn’t take too much time or money, but it creates a fun atmosphere and allows for more diverse entertainment,” McDougal said.
She wishes to be a part of the giveaway in order to support The Antics, who are promoting their business in the following season where they will re-premier on Jan. 7, 2022.
“I think that giveaways are good to a point, people should go to events for the event and not for what material thing they might take away,” McDougal said. “But for the experience.”
The group doesn’t prepare any skits or speeches beforehand — everything on stage is completely new and original. Audience members will never see the same show twice and will get the chance to heavily influence the outcome of the show due to its member’s high reliance on audience participation.
“Performing with The Antics is my passion and I’ve met some of the greatest friends I’ve had,” Calderwood said.
He and many other members of the group have had unique and inspiring experiences within The Antics. Lyon, who has only been a part of The Antics for a year and a half, views the organization as a creative outlet to push him to grow into a better person.
While they are finished for the season, students should try to make an effort to check out their shows in January. They’re cheap, fun and it’s good to support local, independent art groups. Performance groups need our help now — more than ever with the effects of quarantine — and experiencing local theatre is beneficial for everyone involved.
All information regarding ticket sales, hired events, classes and other information on The Antics will be provided on their website: https://theanticsimprov.com/