The Extemporaneous Theatre Company just did a show at the excellent Red Cat Coffee House.  I’m glad Birmingham has an improv troupe, they’re quite good, and I’ve done other pieces on them (here, here, and here).  ETC has an ever-changing cast and this show featured Nick Crawford, Mike Cunliffe, Christopher Davis, “Juice Box” Martin Morrow, Jacob Simmons, and Debbie Smith.

Improv is at its best when 1) there are lots of audience questions and interaction, 2) the individual pieces move fast – get in and get out, and 3) the sketches give the performers opportunities to make lots of left turns.  If something doesn’t go well, it’s probably because 1) they should’ve included the audience more, 2) the sketch stretched out too long, or 3) the performers got boxed in by the narrative or their characters.  Fast, loose, and highly interactive – just how I like my women.

I’d like to give kudos to the Extemporaneous Theatre Company for joining other Birmingham organizations in scheduling some shows at inexpensive prices.  Thanks for the eco-comic or econocomic stimulus!  This ETC show was “Pay What You Can” with a $5 minimum (cash & checks only!).  I’ve got lots of friends – and I know lots of students or recent graduates – who would love to support local arts, but who can’t or won’t afford $15-20 for a show.  You’ve already got the material, got the performers, and done the rehearsals – or “rehearsals” – so why not put on an extra show or two at bargain basement prices?

I just watched the excellent 1948 movie The Red Shoes.  Its first scene ought to be a must-see for modern arts organizations.  The scene is opening night for a ballet and the side doors of the theatre open to a crush of young people, racing and falling all over each other to claim seats in a small balcony.  I’m sure the theatre released a very limited number of cheap seats, so the young and passionate could gain admission.  Not for everyone, just for those who want to come so badly that they’re willing to risk not getting a seat at all.  The well-dressed and well-to-do all purchased reserved and well-afforded seats on the floor.

I think all arts organizations should do this.  Instead of cheap seating on one night, the back row(s) should be reserved every night at ultra-low prices – first come, first serve.  Announce it, market it, let people know, and then let people stand in line for an opportunity to get a $2 ticket.  You guarantee some passion in your audience, which is a good thing for the organization and the performers.  It’s also exciting for the rest of the audience to have ruffians in back.  You’re encouraging arts patronage for life.  And you know they’ll brag all year about seeing a play or the ballet or the symphony for $2.

It’s just good marketing and, let’s admit it, no one gets into the arts for the money anyway.  At the end of the night, remind the audience, “We’re glad you came out!  Especially you ruffians in the back!  Did you have a good time?  If so, please tell your friends, co-workers, and family to come out and see our next shows on December X, December Y, and January Z!!!  Thank you very much!”

I think the good PR is worth the investment.  Some folks just need a little nudge in the right direction.