When a show is described as a totally improvised musical, you know you’re in for a wild ride, but Impromptunes really goes above and beyond.
Last night, the extremely talented cast of six took an audience suggested title, ‘Help Me, I’m Poor’, and all of a sudden we were whisked to London and the opening number, ‘If you’re not upperclass, then you’re lower class’ was belted out with the confidence of someone who had heard the premise of the show way more than 30 seconds ago.
The audience was immediately in stitches. It was that special kind of laughter that’s hard to control, but you’re compelled to try and stifle it so you don’t miss the next pithy one liner.
With laughter half choked down, we continued as the story only became more absurd. Between the cast gleefully setting each other up to describe how ‘sexual intercourse’ could differ within London’s class system and some truly strange horse riding lessons, some sort of narrative arc was formed.
Only adding to the entertainment was the high energy of the live band. Past audiences might remember a solo keyboardist, but this is seriously levelled up for 2023. A three piece band are on board for all the chaos, and somehow manage to keep up, improvising some amazing tracks to go along with the wild story being spun.
Impromptunes is a huge feel-good winner. While both improv and musicals can have a reputation for being a bit cringe, somehow when they come together it’s a seriously funny and super slick operation. You’ll be amazed at how good the cast are at this niche they’ve created for themselves.
If you’re not sure what to see tonight or are thinking of adding an early show to your evening, pick Impromptunes.