The evening is part of a fundraising campaign to complete a multi-phase renovation of the Rosen PAC. Proceeds will contribute to the replacement of the 408 seats in the theater, which is 38 years old, as well as other improvements. The venue is well known for its convenient location, low ticket prices, free parking, and adventurous programming.
The show is structured in two parts. Howdy Stranger will perform a compilation of interactive improvisational games popularized by the television show, “Whose Line is It Anyway?”, followed by “The Island,” a performance competition where the players will fight for audience members’ votes. One by one, players will be eliminated, as audience members determine who will win the title of “survivor.” It's a delightful, action-packed comedy romp where only the fast and funny survive.
The Rosen’s Arts Director, Meryl Budnick, invited Howdy Stranger for a return engagement after they appeared at the theater last year. “Howdy Stranger was pure fun, and we are so happy to have them back,” she said. “They are improv comedy at its best, and the audience was enthralled by the troupe’s clever use of audience suggestions throughout the evening.”
“It takes commitment, creativity, talent, and skill to perform a full evening of improv,” said Kathleen Kellaigh, artistic director at NJ acting school ATC Studios in Clifton, where Howdy Stranger’s founder, Ryan Huban, is a teacher. “And even more of those qualities to keep the audience laughing and involved. Howdy Stranger has it all! I left their performance uplifted, energized, and looking forward to next time.”
Special guest Josh Hurley, a seasoned improv veteran, is joining the show. “I am delighted to play with the Wik-edly talented improvisors of Howdy Stranger and hope they like me enough to let me hang out with them after the show,” he said. Hurley performs weekly at The People’s Improv Theater (The PIT) in New York City.
In regards to what the audience can expect from the show, Huban explains, “Expect the unexpected! Every character and scene we perform is completely made up on the spot, inspired by audience suggestions. It is truly an interactive experience the whole family will enjoy. Plus, there will be opportunities to win prizes!”
Since its opening in 1975, the Rosen Performing Arts Center at the YMCA has given Wayne and the surrounding communities a unique destination for intimate theatrical experiences. Past performances have included Avenue Q, Forbidden Broadway, and an annual eight-week summer concert series.
Show date and time:
Saturday, February 7th, 2015
8:00 p.m.-9:30 p.m.
Location:
Rosen Performing Arts Center
Wayne YMCA
1 Pike Drive
Wayne, NJ 07470
Tickets:
Discounted tickets are available in advance for $15, or tickets can be purchased at the door for $18.
To order tickets for Howdy Stranger’s Improv Comedy Show, please call the Rosen PAC at 973-595-0100 or visit www.howdystranger.com/upcoming-shows/