In our client spotlight series we highlight some of our amazing clients who sell tickets through WellAttended. Today, we are thrilled to introduce you to Ann-Lisette, the Assistant Managing Director for OKC Improv. Learn about her story, the benefits of learning improv, and many other helpful tips. Take it away, Ann-Lisette…
Hey Ann-Lisette! Can you tell us about yourself and how you got involved with OKC Improv?
I grew up acting in my hometown playhouse productions and then ended up studying theatre in college. While attending UCO, I was invited to perform with a local improv troupe in OKC, Everybody and Their Dog. In 2009, OKC Improv was founded and it united the existing improv troupes and fostered a small community. That community has grown immensely in the past 6 years to what it is today. Currently, I am the Assistant Managing Director for OKC Improv and perform with several troupes in our showcases.
How is improv different than traditional theatre?
Improv is spontaneous by nature, since it is all made up on the spot. Obviously, in traditional theatre, actors rehearse the written scripts. In improv, performers improvise scenes based on the audience’s suggestions.
We’ve always been huge fans of improv. What are some of the benefits of learning improv and what’s the best way to start?
Learning improv builds confidence, improves your listening and speaking skills, and gets you outside of your comfort zone. The best way to start would be to see a live improv show and take a beginners class. OKC Improv has classes and showcases throughout the year and we are always looking for people who want to join the fun.
What are some key takeaways for people looking to start an improv troupe?
Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse. Some people laugh at me when I tell them I have improv rehearsal, but it’s important to practice your craft and hone your skills. You and your team need to develop what’s called ‘group mind’ and get on the same page as one comedic mind. Also, think carefully about the people you want to work with. These people may or may not be your friends, but think about with whom you are building a team foundation. I see too many improv troupes fizzle because they were hastily formed.
You’ve done a great job building an engaged community. Can you walk us through the process for how you did that with OKC Improv and how others can do the same in their respective fields?
One of the fundamentals of improv is supporting your partner. So our community is good at supporting everyone, especially newcomers. The motto of improv is “yes and” which means that we agree and add. The base of that is acceptance and we try to teach that in improv as well as embody it as a community.
What have you found to be the most effective way to fill seats?
We don’t have a super duper awesome secret to filling seats, but we believe the best way is to promise and deliver a quality comedy product. We work hard to make sure all of our shows are consistently entertaining and fun for everyone involved.
How/Why did you end up deciding to use WellAttended to sell tickets?
We’d had frustrations with other ticketing systems and WellAttended seemed like a good fit for our organization.
What are some of your favorite features in WellAttended?
I like that we can refund customers ourselves. We had to cancel a show due to inclement weather and it was really easy to take care of everything in WellAttended.
Do you want to say anything else?
Check out our classes and shows at OKCImprov.com! 🙂
Thank you Ann-Lisette for being a part of our client spotlight series and sharing your insights on running a successful improv theatre. If you are in the Oklahoma City area, we highly suggest attending a show or taking a class. You will learn a lot and have an awesome time! Please post your comments and questions below.
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