Get ready for three days of shows, workshops and spontaneous comedy, as the first Oxford Improv Festival prepares to launch in style at The Old Fire Station.
Whether you’re completely new to improvised comedy, a seasoned pro, or just here for the laughs, there’s something for everyone in Oxford’s newest festival line-up which runs from Jan 31-Feb 2.
From murder mysteries to rom-coms, anything goes as the improv comedy is created live on stage, fuelled entirely by audience suggestions.
Oxford Improvisation Festival is a collaboration between three local groups improv groups – The Oxford Imps, House of Improv and Awkward Actors – means you can expect innovative evening shows, afternoon workshops and unscripted performances, as well as the chance to try your hand whether you’re a complete beginner or experienced performer!
The three will even join forces in the OFS Cafe on Friday Jan 31 and Saturday Feb 1, when the improv players will perform together in completely new combinations.
Brought together by Director Paul Z Jackson (former comedy producer at BBC Radio 4), he says: “There’s so much great improv activity in and around Oxford, and it seemed time for more people to know about it. So what better than a festival of shows and workshops all in a terrific space like the Old Fire Station!” he says.
“For me the festival is about bringing the improv community together and inviting more people in Oxford to join in. If we can give more people a first experience of the magic of improv, then I’ll count the first Oxford Improv Festival as a big success.”
Those involved include The Awkward Actors improv group, run by Imran Mirza, which holds regular shows at The Cape of Good Hope, and popular improv comedy workshops on Wednesdays which are open to all.
The House of Improv runs free workshops each week of the university term for anyone interested in learning the art of improv and can be found performing themed shows at the Burton Taylor Studio, including improvised rom-coms, murder mysteries and more!
The Oxford Imps have been performing in and around Oxford since their first gig at the Wheatsheaf pub in January 2004. When they’re not performing at their weekly Jericho Tavern show, or selling out their one-off specials at the Bullingdon, they’re taking to the stage at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and collaborating with improv groups in the Netherlands, America and South Africa.
So don’t miss the chance to join in the fun with the city’s first Oxford Improv Festival from Jan 31-Feb 2. Book here https://oldfirestation.org.uk/show-category/ox-improv-fest/
For more info go to www.oxfordimprovfest.com. Ticket prices range from £5+
