“Improv as Theater,” the theme of the ninth annual edition of this sprawling showcase of performers from around the world, links improvisation to its roots and emphasizes its potential–and rightly so. When Viola Spolin taught character games to the folks who went on to found Second City, she called the form improvisational theater. This year’s CIF jury members selected participants who exhibit an inclination to experiment beyond standard short-form sketch comedy and long-form montage, including actors, writers, monologuists, dancers, musicians, and video artists. Special focus is placed on interdisciplinary work, as well as emerging talents from high schools and colleges. As CIF executive director Jonathan Pitts says, “The act of improvising is the act of creating.” The fest also honors the memories of veteran actor and original Compass member Hamilton Camp, Athenaeum Theatre executive director Fred Solari, local entertainment journalists Allan Johnson and Mark Sinclair, and director-performer Jim Zulevic. • The Chicago Improv Festival runs through 4/30 at the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport. Auxiliary events take place at the Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted; the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington; and Loyola University, Kathleen Mullady Memorial Theatre, Centennial Forum, 6525 N. Sheridan (enter at 1125 W. Loyola). Admission ranges from free to $30; some shows are restricted to persons 18 and over (see listings below). Tickets to shows at the Athenaeum can be purchased through Ticketmaster (312-902-1500 or www.ticketmaster.com) or at the box office; tickets to events at other venues must be purchased at the box office on the day of the show. For general festival information, call 773-935-9810 or visit chicagoimprovfestival.org.
Waiting for Ennis Cotter The Boston-based trio performs a slice-of-life comedy set in a bar. a 7 PM, Athenaeum Theatre, first-floor studio. $15; 18+.
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The festival’s main-stage opening night features the hilarious improvised comedy Bassprov, starring Chicago’s Joe Bill and Mark Sutton as two pals on a fishing trip. As small-town Hoosiers Donny Weaver and Earl Hinkle, Sutton and Bill while away their time in Donny’s bass boat, drowning worms, popping beers, shooting the breeze, and chatting with whoever happens to be sharing the boat with them. For this performance they’re joined by original MADtv cast member Mo Collins. (JHe) Whirled News Tonight satirizes current events. The players exhibit a genuine rapport: articulate dialogue unfolds logically, swiftly, and concisely. (MSB) Also featured: Toronto’s Williamson Playboys. Jordan Peele and Becky Drysdale host. a 7:30 PM, Athenaeum Theatre, main stage. $30; 18+.
Chicago’s ComedySportz presents “PoetrySportz,” featuring improvised poetry presented in competition. Also on the bill: Norway’s Oslo Improvisasjonsteater. a 8 PM, Athenaeum Theatre, bar. F; 18+.
FRIDAY 28
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Chicagoans Mark Sutton and Stacey Hallal share a bill with New York’s Brothel ensemble. a 7 PM, Athenaeum Theatre, second-floor studio. $15; 18+.
