Chris Fitzgerald, Dreena Moran and Ryan Huban perform “Stomach Witches” in Scripted
(HACKENSACK, NJ) -- North Jersey's top-rated improv troupe, Howdy Stranger, is trading spontaneity for scripts. The team returns to the Hackensack Performing Arts Center (HACPAC) on Friday, April 17, and Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 8:00pm each night for their annual production, Scripted.
While Howdy Stranger has built a reputation for award-winning "off-the-cuff" comedy, Scripted offers a polished, high-octane experience in the vein of Saturday Night Live. This year’s showcase features 90 minutes of entirely new, original material written and performed by the core ensemble: Chris Fitzgerald, Ryan Huban, Dreena Moran, and JJ Lynn.
"Creating Scripted is an intensely collaborative process," says founder Ryan Huban. "A sketch might start as a simple pitch for a vampire dating show, but as we brainstorm and challenge one another, it evolves into something completely different and much funnier. We spend months finding the strongest ideas to ensure we're delivering a show our fans will truly connect with. In the end, it’s all about the laughter."
Chris Fitzgerald and Ryan Huban perform “Psychic Date” in Scripted
From biting parodies of domestic partnership to surreal, character-driven sketches, Scripted promises a rollercoaster of razor-sharp humor and physical comedy. The production has become a fan favorite in the Bergen County arts community, with past audience members hailing it as an “unforgettable evening of comedy” and “funnier than SNL.”
To ensure the show remains a staple for all members of the community, tickets are priced at $25 for General Admission and a special $15 rate for seniors and children under 12. Tickets are available for purchase online or at the box office. Hackensack Performing Arts Center (HACPAC) is located at 102 State Street in Hackensack, New Jersey.
Howdy Stranger is a team of professional improvisers and trainers with over 15 years of experience. Winners of the NYC Tournament of Improvisers, they are dedicated to bringing world-class comedy to New Jersey through monthly shows, educational workshops, and community-focused performance art.
Ryan Huban and Chris Fitzgerald perform “Spelling Bee” in Scripted
