Imagine true pet stories were used as comedy fuel for improvised scenes performed by top-notch improvisational actors? That’s the concept behind Zenprov Comedy’s new “Pet-Prov Comedy Show” on April 26 at Mary D. Fisher Theatre in Sedona, AZ.
The fun starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $16 pre-sale and $18 at the door. This is a one-night-only event, never to be repeated.
“Pet-Prov is an experiment that no improv troupe has done before. We’re partnering with Dr. Rick Brady, a veterinarian from Tumbleweed Animal Hospital, who will share their favorite recollections of their animals,” said Derek Dujardin, the director of Zenprov Comedy. “As a group, we will use stories to inspire improvised scenes that somehow relate to the original story. It may be a continuation of what might have happened next, or it could be a completely different re-casting of similar events, but instead of a pet, it’s a misbehaving co-worker or Godzilla-sized gerbil separation anxiety.”
The troupe will also do a series of short-form games, including “Inappropriate Emotional Support Animals,” “Animal Transformation,” a game where two actors become animals that transform into people with animal characteristics, and a soap opera-styled game called “General Hospital, Vet Clinic” and many more.
If you’ve never attended one of their performances, Zenprov Comedy resembles the popular improv TV show “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” The troupe presents a combination of fast-paced, short-form improvised scenes created on the spot based on audience suggestions and Chicago-style long-form improv. Unlike sketch or stand-up comedy, nothing is scripted or prepared beforehand, so it’s never the same show twice.
“Zenprov is the funniest improv troupe in Northern Arizona. People were laughing so hard their cheeks were hurting,” said Patrick Schweiss, Executive Director of the Sedona International Film Festival. Now in its 17th year, Zenprov Comedy revels in the rich source material that comes from living in Sedona, a place steeped in spiritual seeking, UFOs, vortexes, self-help gurus, radical vegans and confused tourists lost in roundabouts.
Jessica Mitolo, an Associate Artistic Director at famed Second City in Chicago, coaches Zenprov Comedy. “I work with improv troupes worldwide, and Zenprov is one of my favorites,” said Mitlolo. “Since 2020, I've enjoyed coaching them through a creative renaissance. They are an ensemble that inhabits that sweet spot of being silly and insightful. A treat not to be missed.”
The super minds of Zenprov Comedy are Derek Dujardin, Shaeri Richards, Shaunn Cochran, Chris Redish, Betty Testa, Dr. Linda Roemer, Nathaniel Montgomery, and Mary Carder.
Zenprov wants attendees to know that their shows are rated PG-13 and are seldom politically, morally or scientifically correct. Imaginary people may die or may say things that make them wish they were dead.
The Mary D. Fisher Theatre is located across the street from the Harkins Movie Theater on 2030 St. Rt. 89A, next door to BMO Harris. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. The show starts promptly at 7:30 p.m. and concludes around 9:15 p.m. Beer, wine, and snacks are available.