Jailbirds break out with improvised comedy at Playhouse

It's visiting hour at the Playhouse Cafe. Inspired by hit TV series, Orange is the New Black, the Body in Space improv troupe will invent three female prisoners based on audience suggestions. The show reveals information about the characters as they go about their lives in jail. The content for the show is created spontaneously, on the spot, with no two shows ever the same.

Jailbirds has been selected by the organisers of the New Zealand Improvisation Festival to play alongside works by improvisors from Christchurch, Wellington, Auckland and international improv companies at the showcase in Wellington in October this year. This will be the third year that Nelson has been represented at the festival having sent their shows, Into the Light and The Map previously.

"The festival brings improvisors from around New Zealand and the world together to celebrate improv, in all its forms," says Body in Space artistic director Daniel Allan. "It is this festival that our very own Nelson Fringe Festival has modelled itself on."

He says the spirit of sharing work, making connections with other artists and having the opportunity for professional development make for a very rich event. Performers are put up at the YHA and encouraged to get involved in as much as possible over the week-long programme.

Nelsonians have the opportunity to see the first ever performance-ready version of Jailbirds as the company develops the show for Wellington. The audience is asked for suggestions and these become an integral part of the show that will unfold. The company will also be asking for feedback so that the show can become even stronger before it goes on tour. 

Jailbirds at the Mapua Playhouse August 14, tickets $15.
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