Vic Michaelis and Matt Apodaca, Our Improv Friends
Nov 28, 2023
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Old school improviser Hayes works with new generation improvisers Vic Michaelis and Matt Apodaca to create a groundbreaking improv show. They discuss topics such as exploring the possibilities of flowing stuff, a show idea about famous Disney characters, physical confrontations, unique flavors of mac and cheese, and planning for the unknown in improv and acting. They also talk about their relationship with their parents, performance and theater, and the process of auditioning and hiring.
The performers discuss the challenges and safety measures involved in creating a unique performance experience in a stairwell.
They reflect on finding a balance between their individual performance styles and consider the comedic opportunities presented by unexpected events.
They explore the practicalities of audience involvement, set design, and potential financial implications of the stairwell performance.
Deep dives
Creating a Unique Performance Experience in a Stairwell
The performers discuss their plans to create a unique and unconventional performance experience in a stairwell. They explore the challenges of incorporating physical elements, such as gluing straps and tying people to poster boards to ensure safety. They also discuss the possibility of audience members falling or detaching from the structure and how to incorporate such unexpected moments into the performance.
Bringing Together Different Performance Styles
The performers reflect on their individual performance styles and how they can come together in this stairwell performance. They address the need to find a balance between their various approaches, particularly when it comes to movement and physicality. They also consider the impact of audience reactions and how to use unexpected events like audience members falling as comedic opportunities.
Planning the Set Design and Audience Involvement
The performers discuss the set design and audience involvement in the stairwell performance. They consider the practicalities of fitting a large number of audience members into the stairwell and explore ideas like having people sit on each step or forming a human pyramid. They also touch upon auditioning performers and the potential financial implications of the show.
Creating a Vertical Performance Space
The podcast discusses the idea of creating a new performance space that is vertical, with stairs being a central element of the performance. The hosts explore the concept of gravity playing a significant role in the show, with performers going up and down stairs behind a couch. They also discuss the challenges of training the audience to watch the show in a physical theater space and suggest the idea of paying the audience to attend improv shows. They propose incorporating audience stories about unique experiences on the ground as input for the performances.
Hiring Performers and the Role of Opener
The hosts talk about the process of hiring a performer named Griff, who will play multiple roles and bring his dad along for the show. They explore the idea of having a crass opener to shock the audience, followed by the hosts themselves coming on stage as the 'good cop' to engage with the audience in a more positive way. They also discuss the financial aspects of the show, mentioning potential family money that could be invested to hire additional resources and speed up the process of building and mounting the performance.