Bull Skit Comedy is back for another season of fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants wit.
The first show this month, Key of I: Improvised Musical sees Bull Skits cast members turn audience suggestions into show-stopping – or at least laugh-provoking – tunes. It starts at 8 p.m. at Scott Block and show dates are Nov. 22, Jan. 24, Feb. 21, April 18 and May 23.
"Key of I is kind of our flagship show this season that our team has chosen," said Jenna Goldade, who, after 17 years, is handing over artistic director duties to the team of Ash Mercia and Aaron Ranger.
"Basically it's a brand new musical every show. We always call it the Off-Off-Off Broadway Stars," said Goldade. "We make it up all right on the spot.
"For the people who liked Hamilton, Sweeney Todd or Cats, it won't be those musicals – but it will be a musical. It will be a full musical from start to finish, but it will be different every time."
Jeremy Doody on the guitar will provide the music.
Anything Bagel, which as the name suggests could be anything on a given night based on audience suggestions and Bull Skit improv actors twisted imaginations. The first show is Nov. 29 at 8 p.m. and others are set for Feb. 28, April 25 and May 30.
"Anything Bagel is featuring our brand new ensemble that our artistic team has chosen. Basically, it's anything goes," says Goldade.
The format gives Bull Skit's improvisers free hand to create in whatever style or genre strikes their fancy.
Goldade said the new artistic team wants to add to the improv experience for both the audience and the cast, which includes 16 newcomers this season.
"Anything Bagel was their way to do that."
The Maestro show takes place Jan. 31 at 8 p.m. It is a daring test of wit and spontaneity until one performer is left standing. The prize – in the spirit of Canadian game show financial modesty – is a shiny five-dollar bill.
For those whose spirits lift at the sound of jingle bells and accept uncritically fake snow on California Christmas streetscapes, Bull Skit has something special for you.
Season's Greetings: An Improvised Hallmark Movie is Bull Skit players' affectionate take on those ubiquitous movies and their edgy-as-warm-milk-with-a-sprinkling-of-cinnamon plots.
"That's like our feel good, lovey dovey show. For people who like Hallmark movies, it will a great. It will be an improvised version of them."
Bull Skit had done an improvised rom-com every February, but decided this year to shift the focus from marry to merry.
The audience gets to join in on the fun by throwing out suggestions to get the party rolling. Shows run Dec. 5, 6, 7 beginning at 8 p.m.
Besides the shows, Bull Skit also runs workshops for those interested in taking the stage some day, or even for those who are just looking to build a little confidence to help with networking, work presentations or speeches.
"Or if people want to learn to improvise, or maybe they want to perform, or just get out of their shells, an improve workshop is really great for that."
More workshops will be announced in January. Goldade said Bull Skit often adds to its lineup so keep an eye on the website for new shows.
Tickets for all shows can be purchased at bullskitcomedy.com or directly through showpass.com.
