Shitzprobe! (Dec. 27, 2024)

I recently attended Shitzprobe!, the improvised Broadway musical, and it was an absolute delight from start to finish. The show features a talented ensemble of musical improvisers, including Ali Reed, Christopher Simpson, Katy Berry, A.J. Holmes, and Kiki Mikkelsen, with special guest Jaime Lyn Beatty.

This was my first time experiencing their new 1.5-hour format with an intermission, and it worked wonderfully, allowing the performers to maintain high energy levels throughout.

The concept of creating a brand-new musical on the spot, based on audience suggestions, is both ambitious and exhilarating. The cast’s quick wit, musical prowess, and seamless collaboration resulted in a performance that was not only hilarious but also impressively cohesive. Each scene flowed naturally into the next, with spontaneous songs that felt as though they had been rehearsed for weeks.

Special guest Jaime Lyn Beatty, known for her work in Stranger Sings, Starkid’s The Trail to Oregon!, and the cult favorite A Very Potter Musical, brought her unique charm and comedic timing to the stage. Her presence added a sense of excitement for fans familiar with her previous performances, and she blended effortlessly with the core ensemble, delivering hilarious moments and spontaneous brilliance.

The live band, led by musical director Adrien Pellerin, deserves special mention for their adaptability and skill in providing the musical foundation for the improvised numbers. Their ability to follow the performers’ lead and enhance the comedic moments was integral to the show’s success. Pellerin’s direction ensured the music was as sharp and engaging as the performances on stage.

What makes Shitzprobe! even more remarkable is that it’s a twice-a-month show that consistently delivers. No matter how many times you attend, you can count on it to be fresh, creative, and absolutely hilarious. It’s a never-ever-disappointing experience, whether you’re a first-timer or a regular.

This particular show was titled No, No, No Dr. Haagen Dazs (the title suggested by the audience). Set primarily in the whimsical world of Candyland, where candy and sweets are the only foods anyone consumes, the story took a hilariously absurd turn when an outside source of salt and umami threatened to disrupt their sugary utopia. The stakes were high as the characters faced the possibility of Candyland being upended forever, blending imaginative storytelling with laugh-out-loud humor.

Overall, Shitzprobe! is a must-see for fans of musical theater and improv comedy alike. The combination of spontaneous storytelling, exceptional talent, and audience participation creates a one-of-a-kind experience that leaves you eagerly anticipating the next performance.