Hey there, friends

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Happiness and peace to you all.

24 shopping days left

I just want to say that times are tight right now, and considering we all have not even been in the same room together in a couple months, I think that expensive gifts for one another this year are not necessary. Cristi, that diamond tennis bracelet will just have to wait. And, Tim, maybe I can knit you a new vest, but not a fancy store bought one from B. Republic this year, I'm afraid. I already gave Peter and Peter cookies (yes, those were your gifts)so they are good. Mookie, I'm sorry we couldn't pick up a wrestling mask in Mexico - problematic at Customs, you know. And Jason, I'm still tired from the limerick scrapbook craft honestly. Zach - are you still out there? I'd offer to make you coffee, but well... Hope you guys are all having fun this year. Miss playin' with ya. Merry Christmas and Kwanza to you all very soon.

Thanks, CJMT

Thanks for coming to our shows! It's great to have friendly faces in the crowd. And no off-the-wall suggestions from any of you. I can't say I showed you the same courtesy. I look forward to catching one of your shows in November.

To My Peeps

I just wanted to say that I think I get it now. Well, I get it more. All this time I was anticipating and trying for the funny because I didn't think that I was enough on my own. This time around, I have just let myself be and it turns out, that what I actually have to say and what occurs to me naturally is in fact funny. Maybe the real Cristi is just good enough.

I don't think I would have seen this without this magical team of wonderful people. It helped my improv and allowed me to be me. So I just wanted to say thanks team.

Wow, Bobby Knight really does know his shit.

From a distance

So, bittersweet night for me at the Sheraton, Saturday, September 27, 2008. As an AUDIENCE member, I enjoyed a fantastic show from the 50-50 Team (new and old). Jason, you had such fun hosting (or so it appeared); Tim, you had the audience wrapped around your finger once again; Mookie, you were hilarious as always; and Cristi, you had a phenomenal show - LOVED the "5, 6, 7,8" on song titles. Oh, and your other teammates were good too. Alas, I so wanted to join you guys up there, but knew that my new spot is now one of the Sheraton chairs in the cabaret, watching and getting my own drink as the uber-attentive Janet walks by. Be well, my friends. I will be thinking of as The Other Team performs this coming weekend. I hope by osmosis, I can take some of your amazing talent with me...

Limerick of Champions

Auditions

Hey All,
Nice auditions today. Congrats to all of you.
I will miss the group, but I know you will all do great things where ever you are.
Thanks

Have a killer audition, team!

Be sure to avoid any sticky situations!

Gracias

Thank all of you for an awesome year. Definitely one that has defined my improv career.
Thanks also for the very special limerick. Honestly y'all, that was beyond cool.
Here's to a team that defined the meaning of team.
Cheers

Congrats, Mookie

Here's GI Joe showing the proper finger position for doing the "Mookie," the latest dance craze to originate in MN. Congratulations, Mookie, on your 2nd anniversary. You're our resident Kabuki expert.

Hecka Love

I know you are all waiting in anticipation to see who will be the next to recieve the Hecka. I will be passing it along at auditions to help motivate us all. Watch your back. -Cristi

Great Shows!!

We had some killer shows both nights. I'm so honored to have shared the stage with all of you these past 12+ months. Super kudos to Zach for working the latest fad to sweep the nation (The Mookie gesture) into the act. Bravo! And Bravada!



Some Outtakes pics if anyone cares:
http://www.new.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2062463&l=9c7f6&id=3702725

I'll be thinking of you guys!

I am truly sorry to miss this weekend of shows. I am looking forward to our little "family get-away" and seeing all the sights that South Dakota has to offer. I am QUITE depressed that "Bedrock City" in Custer, S.D. has closed for the tourist season. I suppose that I could still drive up to the park like the Griswold's and hold a Flintstone Employee at gunpoint and make him take us on all the rides. Have fun! See y'all at auditions!

Gracias

Just wanted to drop a quick line to say thanks again for coming out to support. Very cool.

Tim, sorry I got Teo's name screwed up, please don't shiv me in the back when I see you next.

Wednesday and Other Stuff

Still laughing at "what is the other thing she put 18 million cracks in."

Shame on you Peter. But hilarious.

I won't be at class on Monday because I found out that I'm a semi-finalist in Acme's Funniest Person Contest and perform that night. It's a safe bet that I won't be using anything from my Outtakes intro.

If there's any way you guys can make it down, that'd be awesome. If not, I understand, and know that you will all be with me in spirit...

HECA Press Junket

WOW! It's only been a little over 12 hours ago since I was awarded the prestigious HECA trophy, but it's been quite the experience! Handlers whisked me out of the Sheraton promptly so I could fly out to the east coast to do "Regis & Kelly", then quickly flew me out to LA to be on the "Ellen" show, then I made it just in time to do the ever-popular "Showcase Minnesota" on KARE-11... (Allow room here for a "sing-songy" CRRAAAAAZZZY!!!!)

If I don't pass out from the stress and attention that the HECA demands... tonight I will be at the Cabaret to award this prize to another lucky recipient. With the HECA comes great honor, but also, great responsibility.

Godspeed.

HECA of a performance!

I spent most of the past weekend constructing the High Energy and Commitment Award (HECA). I will present it after Friday's show to the team member who exhibited high energy and commitment. I am hoping that the winner will present it to another team member after Saturday's show, and then that winner present it after the September 12 show, and so on, creating a traveling trophy and hopefully a cherished SR tradition for years to come. Be the first winner!

Happy Birthday to Jason & Cristi!

In honor of your birthdays, I thought I'd throw a 12-day bash for you two! Come on down and see me at 1265 Snelling Avenue North, St. Paul, MN. Once you pay $8 at the gate, I'll make sure they give you a free button!

At the "Grand Opening" of the new "International Bazaar" I already ran into Brett! He kissed my rings and was on his way.

More from the fairgrounds as this story develops...

Two secrets and a lie

Okay, I'll start. (tell 3 things about yourself - two true and one lie; we have to guess which one is the lie)


Maureen's Three:
I've jumped off a bridge.
I've been convicted of a misdemeanor.
I've received the last rites.

Fun, huh?

Kinda quiet out there

I see our blogging has dropped recently. Maybe a sign we're all ready for a new team? Nah! Here's what I think is going on:

Cristi: too busy trying to create a shiv from a toilet paper core.
Jason: does not want to risk aggravating shoulder by typing.
Maureen: battling Murdoch's evil media empire.
Mookie: inflamed lips make it hard to see keyboard.
Peter R: forgot password again.
Tim: still recovering from Ma D's latest cuffing.
Zach: writer's block due to too much new comedic material.

¡Hasta mañana¡

What I would have done.

Since Tim is second guessing his choice and what could have been a better choice I'm going to do it for the outtakes show(because I obliviously made the best possible choices for are shows). This is what I would have done for worlds worst Burger King employee. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QFQyib5ZQZY&feature=related

Terrible Twos

Great shows this weekend! Lots of FUNNY FUNNY!!! I thought everyone came out with good stuff both nights...

OK, maybe not my best "Jeopardy" response on Saturday. (CATEGORY: Toddlers. The answer is: TERRIBLE TWOS. I buzzed in with: What is an anorexic bra size?) As you can imagine, with a room full of "Red Hats" it got quite a few groans. My mother cuffed me on the back of the head the whole way home, then washed my mouth out with soap. I knew she was really mad too, because she used "LAVA" (nice flavor... but gritty).

But, I digress, as "hind-sight" is 20/20, I thought of other options:

TERRIBLE TWOS: What was the Nazi Party's pet name for Hitler & Eva Braun?

TERRIBLE TWOS: What is the name of an inner-city Asian Gang?

TERRIBLE TWOS: What do you call pissed-off Siamese Twins?

Nothing?!?!? I guess that's why Mom likes Peter Butler best!

Crap-ole! Shows this weekend.

I feel stale without our rehearsal time last week. Time to throw caution to the wind. Everybody jump this weekend. Breakout of your safe zone. Hump that microphone stand during Blues! Do an accent in 185! Try some space work in four square! The new frontier is boundless.

Hijo de Dybevik !

BEWARE~! He's coming for you.

Games to play?

Here are a few games that I've always enjoyed playing which we haven't done in Stevie Ray's recently...

Moving Bodies: Audience participation scene -- if there is only going to be two people, then use two audience members. Otherwise, just one audience member and the whole troupe is on call for the scene. Instructions for audience members:
a) You are in charge of moving our bodies. If you want to make us walk, just pull on our front pantleg.
b) Please don't make us hit or fight with each other.
c) You are in charge of moving everyone on the stage. If someone comes on the stage, you must move them. (Or, if there is just going to be two performers & two audience members, you can omit this rule.)
Keys: a) Not moving, especially your head, unless you are moved by the audience member. b) Having an actional scene instead of just talking heads. c) Putting yourself in danger and being bold.

Forward-Reverse: Director controls Scene is like a VCR moving it forward and in reverse. I saw a great version of this as a Superhero story. Key is remembering exactly what you said and the motions associated with speaking. Big actions & big emotions really pay off.

Songs like a Song: Improvisers are performing a scene. At any moment, the director can interrupt with, "That sounds like a song!" - repeat the last line of dialogue. Improvisers begin singing a song immediately - until the Director interrupts with, "Back to original scene." Key is to move the story along while you're singing.

Piano Torture: Improvisers are performing a scene. At any moment, the musical director can begin playing music on the piano. Instantly, the performers must burst into song. When the musician plays, the improvisers sing. When the musician is not playing, the improvisers do not sing. Key is to sing immediately - don't wait.

Rock Opera: Take a suggestion such as "Hot dog Stand" and sing a three song Rock Opera story. Can also be played with taking a movie and performing a Rock Opera about that movie's plot. Great show closer for a big musical number.

Signed, sealed and delivered!

Great shows this weekend, team. I like how we brought what we practiced to the stage. Big hits by everyone. Kudos to Jason on his leadership and coaching.

Zach, your simplistic amazement at how an iron works was hilarious. Great job with your first Home Shopping Network. Maureen also makes it easy.

Best Love Letters I've seen. Great listening by all there.

Those were two of the many highlights. Really great job on all the structures. Nice to have larger than normal summer crowds, too. The word must be getting out.

Show tonight!

Team, let's hit it hard tonight. Let's knock some socks off. Let's rock the roof. Let's bust some guts. Let's ride herd. Let's... well, you get the idea.

Tim, you're still an embarrassment to your son, but we'll miss you this weekend.

Mookie's fun house

Thanks, Mookie and Allissa, for a fun Saturday evening. I especially enjoyed watching Mookie "break in" his new bocce set. Bring Mal to a show sometime. Tim, you really are an embarrassment to your son.

Silent Scene

Silent scene: nice exercise, wouldn't want to do it before an audience. You're a master at it, Jason, but I like to talk my way through scenes. It is comforting and minimizes confusion with your scene partner. To me, effective communication is “Tell them what you are going to do. Do it. Tell them what you did.” Works for improv, too.

TGIF!

Oh sure, it's the restaurant across the street. But it's so much more than that. "TGIF", meaning "Thank God it's Friday" was first used by the ancient Greeks (then spelled with more "u's" and "v's") upon entering into their first improvisation performance of the weekend. After sharing some wine and Greek nachos, they would launch into a riveting and energetic improv set - spirited by a rousing pre-show chorus of "TGIF!!!"

I invite you all to rally around improv's Greek roots (tastier than grape leaves, the roots are best with a heavy garlic-lemon sauce). And enter into this Friday's show with energy and excitement! We are sure to have fun.

Et tu, Brute? You betcha!

Throughout history, the punch-line goes like this...

... so then 185 Oedipus' say "Wait 'til I tell my MOM!!!!"

... so then 185 Emperor Neros say "THAT BURNS!!!!"

... so then 185 Betsy Ross' say "Don't needle us, you PRICK!"

... so then 185 Abraham Lincolns say "FINE! We're late for the Theatre, anyway!"

... so then 185 Marie Antoinettes say "Are you telling us that we're CUT OFF?!?!?!?!"

I'm back!

That's right kittens, I'm back on the blog! Had somewhat of a confrontation with my password but we've gotten past it and are rebuilding now. Hope you haven't given up on me!

Marty (1955)

"If no one remembers you won a best actor Oscar, you might be Ernest Borgnine."

Poor Ernie got sacrificed on the high altar of cheap laughs Saturday. Perhaps surprising to many, he won a best actor for his 1955 role in Marty, which also won the best movie award. Per Wikipedia, "Because of Borgnine's longevity, Marty currently stands as the oldest film with a Best Actor performance from someone still alive. With the passing of Charlton Heston on April 5, 2008, Borgnine is currently the only living actor who has won Best Actor for performances given prior to 1960."

Mookie Kabuki

That was fun last night guys. Earlier in the day I wasn't certain that I was going to be able to perform, because when I blurted out "I got dumped" at Cristi during the Outtakes show I was being totally honest.

It felt good to come hang with my new improv family to keep my mind off of that for a bit. So thank you all! Whether you knew it or not, your energy and humor were a huge boost to me.

See ya Wednesday!

And that's the power of love!

The power of love is a curious thing
Make a one man weep, make another man sing
Change a hawk to a little white dove
More than a feeling thats the power of love

Tougher than diamonds, rich like cream
Stronger and harder than a bad girls dream
Make a bad one good make a wrong one right
Power of love that keeps you home at night

Chorus 1 :
You dont need money, dont take fame
Dont need no credit card to ride this train
Its strong and its sudden and its cruel sometimes
But it might just save your life
Thats the power of love
Thats the power of love

First time you feel it, it might make you sad
Next time you feel it it might make you mad
But youll be glad baby when youve found
Thats the power makes the world goround

Chorus 2 :
And it dont take money, dont take fame
Dont need no credit card to ride this train
Its strong and its sudden it can be cruel sometimes
But it might just save your life

They say that all in love is fair
Yeah, but you dont care
But you know what to do
When it gets hold of you
And with a little help from above
You feel the power of love
You feel the power of love
Can you feel it ?
Hmmm

Chorus 3 :
It dont take money and it dont take fame
Dont need no credit card to ride this train
Tougher than diamonds and stronger than steel
You wont feel nothin till you feel
You feel the power, just the power of love
Thats the power, thats the power of love
You feel the power of love
You feel the power of love
Feel the power of love

Casual Friday

Thanks again all, for being understanding about my Casual Friday attire. I had fun both nights (even Fancy Saturday when I had to match with ya'll). So much fun at the smart and hilarious improv, that I can't imagine what we'd possibly have to work on for Wednesday class. Jason -are you just bringing bars so we can sit around and chat by the Sheraton's Southside Babbling Brook? Come casual, everyone.

The Presentation of The Kit

It is ready. Come one, come all with your wrinkled shirts, scuffed shoes, dirty eyeglasses, cut fingers, upset stomach, unruly hair, unshadowed eyes, and missing buttons. The Kit is here for you. It will be kept under lock and key in The Closet. Please feel free to partake of it, caringly.

Only thing missing is an attractive Label for The Kit. If anyone would like to name The Kit formally and create that label, that would be appreciated.

Sometimes I really love my day job!

With the State Fair starting early this year (Aug. 21-Sept.1), things seem a little more rushed. But sometimes you have to stop and smell the roses... or the second hand roses (that are 90% Rayon, by the way) that you find at the YMCA garage sale held here on the fairgrounds.

I just happened to pick up an original Mattel Millenium Falcon for a cool $2. That's right my friends...$2. It's in pretty good condition, I'm just missing the part on top that the blaster sits on.

"It's a piece of JUNK!"

Oh, no Young Skywalker... it's a piece of HISTORY!

I can't wait to get this thing home... er, I mean, Teo will be so excited to see this.

JEALOUS?!?!?!? See you all tonight!

JABS WITH THE LEFT, BUT KNOCKS THEM OUT WITH THE RIGHT!!

Nice job on Saturday everyone. I think you really answered to Fridays bumpy show. I think we brought a majorly fun, funny, and professional show. Everyone was in good form, and you definitely brought the level of commitment that the stage deserves.
I also wanted to extend a thanks to everyone who has been sticking around for the Outtakes. That is majorly cool that you are supporting them, and it is much appreciated. Truly.
Hope everyone had a wonderful Mothers Day. Talk to you on Friday. Except for you Cristi. You have other more important things to do, then be with your second family. Seriously... its cool... really. Don't even sweat it.

SR

FRIDAY-SATURDAY-STEVIE RAYS COMEDY CABARET-BE THERE
ps mookie is hosting the outtakes on sat

The gauntlet is thrown!!

At Wednesday's rehearsal, Jason (while holding the truth orb) challenged me to stretch myself and actually play some characters in games like Party Quirks. That means using accents, having wants, and trying to physically embody the Martha Stewarts and Ryan Seacrests of the world. So, I accept the challenge and will try and step it up. I'm hoping that others in the troupe can help me attain this stretch goal through coaching, suggestions and keeping me honest. If you see the basic aspects of Mookie on stage when I'm supposed to be playing another character, let me know. My two goals this rotation are mime work and character work. And whenever see each other succeeding in stretch goals such as this, we should be sure to give them acknowledgement (sincere, specific and selective).

The Kit

I am building a Stevie Ray's Cabaret Survival Kit. This Kit is intended for use by authorized Stevie Ray Troupe Members. (Those have not yet earned their Jacket will be allowed to use the kit, but must show a valid ID to check out items from The Kit).

The Kit will include basic performance necessities including, but not limited to: black shoe polish, 3 safety pins; eyeglass cleaner; The Bible; matches; throat lozenges; one pair of modest yet sassy earrings from Claire's (for Cristi, Maureen or Jason); black socks; a sewing kit; a steamer; a bowie knife; and a candelabra.

What else would you like to be included in the The Kit? Please let me know as I will be assembling the contents soon. Thank you in advance for your suggestions and for your use and respect of The Kit. (suggestions of a name for The Kit other than "The Kit" are welcomed too). Thank you and good night.

EMERGENCY SOCKS.

Last night, I had a revelation
It shook me to my foundation
The socks in my arsenal were all white
And that wasn't going to be quite alright

So I devised a plan
That I'd always stand
Throughout the session
and succeed in deception

Ha ha! Hee hee!
How clever I must be me!

The group I would not rankle
and my pant leg would cover my ankle

I thought that I had fooled the bourgeoisie
but when I petted the dog Tim caught me.

You can't spell limerick without "ICK"!

lim-er-ick n. a humerous verse

At practice (on Wednesday, the last),

We rehearsed the limerick so fast.

The tension did mount,

As I was trying to count.

Surprisingly! My gibberish passed!!!

Kudos!!

Zach had his first show with us, and I would like to give him a shout out. Great to have you, and I know that there will be some great moments on stage with you.
Also, thanks for bringing the paying portion of the audience!
Great job from everyone this weekend. Some fun shows.
A shout out to Mr. Dybevik for his hosting. He has the mojo.
Butler and Maureen, you were missed. Your family misses you.

Need-to-know for this Weekend's Shows

So we're ready for the LATEST gossip on all our favorite offers - I searched news.google.com learning:

Lindsay Lohan - Plans to be naked in "Florence", a new indie film. Her former bodyguard David Kim insists she ripped him off. She is now a "serious actress".

Pat Benatar - Will perform with her husband and producer Neil Giraldo in Tampa in July 7.

Britney Spears - Moby jokingly told a UK paper that he would marry her. Justin Timberlake has agreed to attend a BBQ with her this summer. She just gave $25k to "Idol Gives Back" after being "touched".

William F. Buckely - Still dead.

Paris Hilton - Rated "Most Overexposed Celebrity" by Forbes Poll. Her brother just got a DUI. She is not ready to have "kids" with boyfriend Benji Madden.

Jeff Foxworthy - Just wrote a book called, "Dirt on my Shirt". His interior designer married Ron White.

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani - As the Emir of Qatar, signed a deal to found a new airline in Mauritania.

A.A. Milne - Kindergarten Children celebrated "Winnie-the-Pooh" day in Miss Miller's class at St. William the Abbot, Seaford's class on April 2.

Blenders - Can be used to make dip.

Mr. Walt

Hey all, sorry I missed last Wednesday. My dog Walter has some health problems and it got scary on Wednesday afternoon. He seems to be okay right now but I am keeping an eye on him. He is my little bugga jub. I am excited to see you all this weekend and to play. Miss you!

P.S. Hope Karen is doing better!

It's great to be back!

Hey, gang! Looking forward to seeing all of you on Friday & Saturday. I'll be there unless I get called away to fight the forces of EVIL!

See Ya Real Soon! (Oh, MAN!!! I have GOT to stop saying that!!!)

TV Shows set in Each State

A few weeks ago, I was challenge team members to come up with a TV show for every State. I've done the Wikipedia research, and it's definately a daunting challenge. How it stands:

Arizona - Hey Dude
Alaska - Northern Exposure
Arkansas - Evening Shade
California - Beverly Hills, 90210
Colorado - Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman
Connecticut - Who's the Boss?
Florida - Dave's World / Golden Girls (Alissa insisted I include it)
Georgia - Matlock
Hawaii - Magnum, P.I.
Illinois - Roseanne
Indiana - Eerie, Indiana
Iowa - Drexell's Class (I loved Dabney Coleman)
Kansas - Gunsmoke
Kentucky - CHEERLEADER NATION? REALLY THAT'S IT? NOTHING ABOUT A FLYING BELMONT STAKES HORSE WITH A DREAM? I'M CHOOSING OVW - OHIO VALLEY WRESTLING - FOR THIS ONE.
Louisana - Swamp Thing
Maine - The Dead Zone / Murder She Wrote (Home of Cabot Cove - murder capitol per capita OF THE WORLD)
Maryland - The Lone Gunman
Massachusetts - Wings
Michigan - Home Improvement
Minnesota - Coach (All the US loves them some Craig T. Nelson)
Mississippi - In the Heat of the Night (A TV series based on the movie that ran for 8 seasons which I've never seen.)
Missouri - AfterMASH (Something that I believed, until two minutes ago, was simply some kind of weird word-joke like Ishtar. Both are real. Be afraid!)
Nevada - Reno 911! or CSI.
New Jersey - Hi Honey, I'm Home! (Clearly, I have a soft spot for early-90s Fox sitcoms which I could get on my little b&w portable TV in my room.) House M.D. would also work.
New Mexico - Quantum Leap
New York - Taxi
North Carolina - The Andy Griffith Show
Ohio - The Drew Carey Show (We watched an episode last night with Jeremy Howard, whose father played the detective on MATHNET~!, playing Ryan Stiles son.)
Oklahoma - Saving Grace (some show with Holly Hunter).
Oregon - Eureka (also known as "A TOWN CALLED EUREKA")
Pennsylvania - Mr. Belvedere / My So-Called Life / The Office (Great potential for a mash-up here.)
Rhode Island - Family Guy
South Carolina - American Gothic (Apparently NBC has a horror channel called "Chiller" which is a great name for a network. Wish I got it!)
Tennessee - Christy (LeVar Burton was on this show. Therefore we must include it.) Again, I might have to choose wrestling and go with Memphis Wrestling TV (Jerry Lawler country.)
Texas - Walker, Texas Ranger / Beavis and Butthead (sad that the cartoon was more realistic)
Utah - Big Love (Bill Paxton = TV's Aaron Eckhart)
Vermont - Newhart
Virginia - American Dad!
Washington - Harry and the Hendersons (they got 72 episodes - 36 HOURS - of out that film's plot)
Wisconsin - That 70's Show
Wyoming - Laramie (Old Timey Rockin' Goodness) or The Virginian or the Men from Shiloh. Westerns love Wyoming.

EDIT (4/4/08)
Adam has been helping me with this project and suggested a few more -
SOUTH DAKOTA - Deadwood
MONTANA - My Friend Flicka
NEW HAMSPHIRE - The Brotherhood of Poland, New Hampshire (CBS) / Last episode of Newsradio where they move there.
ALABAMA - Any Day Now (Lifetime)
NEBRASKA - Heartland (1989)
WEST VIRGINIA - Hawkins (Jimmy Stewart mystery series).

States still searching for: Delaware, Idaho and North Dakota.

Who are you?

This weekend we discovered that Peter could speak like Kevin Costner. What's your secret voice talents (or for Tim - who CAN'T you do?) and/or what are your celebrity look-a-likes?
I'm not sure that I really have any, but maybe the beard will provide me one. I used to have very long, curly hair and wacky mustaches, so Weird Al was mentioned.

MSSA

Nice gig last night gang. We had some hard work to get through, but i believe the client went away pleased. I have to say that I believed I learned a lot about my stage tolerance, which is to say, I have more room to grow. Sweet.

Bonanza

Thanks for the anniversary wishes, friends. And yes, thank you, I'll go with "moxie" as My Natural.

Reflection Blog Time. I was lucky to grow up with a family that knew how to laugh really hard. Sure, sometimes it was others' expense. But we like to think we were discreet. Every other Wednesday night my mom and sister and I would go out to dinner. No where fancy. Usually the Bonanza on 1st Avenue in Iowa City. For those of you, Peter R., who don't remember Bonanza it was a western themed "carry-your-tray-order-chopped-sirloin-and-pick-which-ranch-dressing-you-wanted-for-your-iceberg-lettuce-salad" place. Oh, and free refills on Diet Coke (that explains my Habit). We'd talk about our day, etc. but the majority of our dinner time was spent surveying the restaurant from our booth, making up stories about everyone around us. Unbeknownst to the innocent patrons, we would create their entire backstories and destinies before they could go back for extra gravy. When I got to improv, what a cool discovery to find myself bringing the Bonanzans to life. How fun is inspiration.

Thanks all for making this such a good time. And laughing really hard.

Amazin

How about that. Three years and they are ready to hand you the school. Congratulations!!!
You are truly one of the greatest talents to hit the SR's stage. I hope that you have many more years of continues success in the world of improvisation, because that world needs a player like you.
Who says sarcasm is a dead comedy? You have a great, keep it up.

Happy 3rd Anniversary!

Traditionally, a gift of leather is given for a 3rd Anniversary. That's all I'm going to say... otherwise my creepy "Love is Like Guy" may surface...

Happy Anniversary, my friend! I will gladly play your Foil anytime, and its all due to your natural

Natural what?

Congrats, Maureen, on your 3 years! Stevie's email was missing an important word: "Her natural [?] got her accepted into the troupe after only three months of classes." Moxie, panache, flair, QVC hostiness? Whatever it is, we're glad you got it.

Hey guys!

I'd forgotten that Google bought Blogger. Is there anything they don't own?

Google just bought my bike. Hostile takeover. Nothing I could do. They're calling it GoogleHuffy.

Anyhow, happy to be here.

Z

X's in my eyes... Drawing flies

Hey yall,
Thanks so much for all the recognition. It can easily be said that i would not be here doing what i do today, if it werent for all the people i have been able to trust to support me and give support through this wonderful world of improvisation. My glass is held high in honor of all of you, keeping my spirit alive. Heres to the White Light.

Other things that happened on Jason's anniverary!

On birthdays or anniversaries I like to look at other things that happen on the date.

Births: Rosie O'Donnell(1962), Mathew Broderick (1962), & K Fed (1978). Deaths: Pocahontas(1617), Dean Paul Martin, Dean Martin's son (1987) and Kevin Whitrick, first British man to commit suicide on a live chatroom (2007). My favorite is maybe the reason why Jason loves limerick, its World Poetry Day. You should be proud of all things you share your special day with especially K Fed (I share a birthday with Sinbad). Happy anniversary!

10, really?

Doesn't it only seem like yesterday? I'm sure time has flown, as you have surely enjoyed every single minute of these last 10 years. Seriously, thanks for everything you do. Teaching, coaching, laughing at appropriate times... And for being such a great bridge between Stevie Ray's and Other Improv Organizations (they know who they are). Thanks for sharing your passion for this art. I've learned a lot from you.

[I have put all this in an Excel spreadsheet, of course. I'll follow up to let you know where you are on the bell curve, to date, if you're curious.]

Happy 10, Jason!

Jason, you're a huge part of our team's and the entire troupe's success. Keep the crazy eye stares coming.

Happy Anniversary, Jason!

Congrats on ten years with Stevie Ray's! Traditionally, a 10th Anniversary present is something made of "Tin". I'm melting some pop cans and making you a bolo tie and some cuff links.

Password remembered!

I remembered my forgotten password it was limerick (I'm so use to blocking all memories of it). Which leads me to my question what is everyone's favorite and least favorite structures? My favorite has to be string cheese or anything that is based off of tag outs. Fav for hosting has to be jeopardy. Least favorite has to be something that I'm forced to jib in, I'm fine with translating it.

Audition Results.

Congratulations everyone!!! Great audition. See you Wednesday.
Jason Bindas – Team Leader
Peter Butler
Zach Coulter
Tim Dybevik
Chris Harrington
Peter Ruohoniemi
Cristi Rumpza
Maureen Tubbs

Welcome Zach!!

ZCJMMPPT! Global Domination to follow soon.. HUZZAH~!

BRAVO

Hey Gang,
Great finale last night. Awesome.
Good luck at auditions!!!

Six months? Whhaaaaaatttt?!?!?!?!?

I can't believe how quickly this six months has gone by! I have really enjoyed being a part of this troupe. Jason's guidance and patience (yes, I said patience) really helped me to focus and listen. His rehearsals really helped me improve from show-to-show. Maureen gave me great insight on how to "play" and gave me great tips on the right characters for certain structures. Plus, it was always fun when Stevie came to play with us.

Honestly, every one of you on this team has taught me something. Things, that I will later claim to be "part of my own clever design."

Thanks!

Advice from Diablo Cody

Apparently, to come up with a "stripper name" you need to use the name of your very first pet and the street name from your childhood home. Everyone should try it... I thought about mine during church.

My "stripper name": Chip Rural Route 1 Box 24

I don't know, but it loses something in translation. Maybe I could use the "Box" to my advantage?

That's what she said.

A Rumpza Rendezvous

Last Comic Standing auditions were held at ACME comedy on Tuesday. As I was standing in line, I saw a familiar face walking towards me. It was Cristi! We arrived shortly after 9 a.m., figuring the line would be moving inside. WRONG!!! It was nice having someone I knew standing with me for the next 3 hours, as I was losing toes. Stevie Ray's was well represented. Aside from Cristi and myself, Linda Bieza and Tom Reed were there (they were there at 7 am... INSANE IN THE MEMBRANE!). For those of you who don't know, Tom & Linda are on the BLOGLESS Stevie Ray's team. Word has it that Mr. Ray was there, whether he dragged Michael along with him, I cannot confirm.

Cristi and I were fortunate enough to be standing in line next to a Chris Rock Wannabe. He burned through all of his "material" and when he got inside he crashed and burned like a Kamikaze pilot.

We also had an "Audition Freak". She tried out for "Deal or No Deal" and "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" (She made it on "Millionaire"... with Meredith... NOT REGIS!) Oh, and she never SHUT HER MOUTH!

Cristi and I got separated at the door. As she went in, I peered through the glass with envy as I was still with the "Audition Freak" and the Chris Rock Wannabe. Godspeed, Miss Rumpza. Was I jealous? Maybe a little at first, but jealousy soon turned to pity when Cristi had to audition with them.

There was your typical "reality" show back stories going on. So the camera crew was folloing close on a few people. There was some 138-year old woman in her walker auditioning, she said something about "opening for Houdini". Then there was a disturbing gentleman molesting an ice sculpture of Mary Tyler Moore...

How can anyone look on that and NOT feel changed?

Final Jeopardy

Category: Geography
Answer: Newfoundland

Out of the Office

Really nice to have a place to go that doesn't look like my office. Or any office. Saturday night's show was why I do improv. A place to play without any hierarchy. No one to manage. No bottom line to make. Just fun with people I like. Thanks to each of you for your generosity.

Pride

Hey All,
First off, well put Mookie. I couldn't agree with you more.
I want to say that each and every one of you brought your A++++ game, and it showed. I think you all can be very proud of that show. In my opinion, that is the best show that stage has seen in years!!
Cristi, your eye contact was there, and your listening was definitely on because of it. Maureen, first it was great getting to play with you one on one again, and you definitely had great finesse going in both your "Coach bag" scene and Home Shopping Network. Peter, your play was solid, especially in Time Travel. Sperm never looked so good. ( and I was glad I got to enjoy that part of it hours later at Fridays). Mookie, great physicality and straight man in First Line Last Line, although I am pretty sure your death will come soon on one of those stools. Tim, great characters as usual, but on this night you brought a great sense of play and confidence that complimented the show immensely. My only regret was that Butler could not be there to share in the glory. We will have to repeat it for him next time.
My word for the show is PRIDE. You guys really made me feel great about being apart of this team, and especially to be able to say I team leader. PLAY is a wonderful thing. Thanks CMMPPT.

Great Show!

Everyone -- I really enjoyed last night's show! And that's not just because I had the opportunity to drink not one but TWO oddly colored martinis.

I thought everyone did an extraordinary job of being inventive, funny and full of energy throughout the entire night. Tim/Peter as caveman father & son was terrific. Jason & Maureen scene in shopping for a COACH purse was hilarious. Cristi was again our Lymerick champion as well as having another affair with a poolboy.

What a super audience! The Outtakes had a really fun show. What a great night of improv!

Worst Improv Injury?

What's the worst you've ever been hurt while performing?

Maybe most of you are sensible, reasonable people and haven't been injured (besides emotionally) on stage. I cannot count myself among you.

In college, I was miming a trampoline and did a front flip (senton?) landing on my back. I didn't realize the floor was basically carpet covering a concrete floor. My back ached for at least five weeks. Not exactly improv, but I also broke my elbow at a pro-wrestling show a number of years back. I was wearing a mask and I missed a plancha (which was planned). However, the popping noise was not. I finished the match though, which would have been good, except it was a terrible match. And I lost the RCW Light Heavyweight title. The agony~!

Luck o' the...

This weekend our limericks will rhyme.
We’ll recite them in double-time.
But if we fail,
Jason will wail.

And we will feel sub-prime.

I will not be the first out!!

Dybevik Tribute Band

Come on, Tim! Here's how this is going to roll. Bus leaves at 8. Look for the giant sunset painted on the side with your face emblazoned in the horizon. Got to get to the gig early for pre-show t-shirt sales. We're going with the black short-sleeved ones that reads "Dybevik. King of the Palsey Blues"; then of course there will be plenty of the three-quarter sleeve baseball tees that are your face with "It's 10:00, do you know where Dybeviks REAL voice is?" Ruho and Butler are handling the t-shirt booth. Fashion sense, duh. Cristi is in charge of security and confiscating schives. Jason is manning ticket sales. Those who don't have exact change are out of luck. Mookie will open the show with a Kabuiki bit. Although I'll be in charge of refreshments (I'm making bars!) I'm happy to roadie too. We'll all be performing as the Dybevik Tribute Band of course, but you'll make your grand entrance at the end -in lavender, of course.

Tim, this is the beginning of something special. Oh sure, it all started as a joke at your expense, but I think when we're all laying on the beach sipping mai tais, you'll be happy we all were laughing at you. Uh, with you.

Yours truly,
Another crazed fan

Back by popular demand

Well, I'm looking at the blob one day and find out that I've been edited... NAY REMOVED! The thousands of emails that I have received requesting that I repost cannot be ignored any longer. Here is my previous post (to the best of my recollection).

"Now is the Winter of our Discontent..." oh, the other one...

So, I hear that you all do a pretty mean rendition of me doing the Blues. I heard that Maureen even stole my moves that I STOLE from Joe Cocker! Guess I better not miss any more Wednesdays!

My Granny used to say that "Imitation is the most sincere form of flattery."

But then, Granny drank... A LOT!

Ooooops

Sorry Tim,
I hit add comment, but for some reason, it replaced yours.
Maybe you could repost.
sorry again
Jason

While the bald guy is away... the rest of the cast will play.

Tim,
All i can say is that you definately have competition for the close!!!!
These people rocked it with their cocks out.
Jason

Fun weekend shows!

I just wanted to tell everyone that last weekend's shows were a lot of fun. Our energy was high both nights and everybody stepped forward with funny stuff! Plus, it's always a good time when the boss shows up to play.

I was sorry to miss practice last night. I was at a meeting and the attendees seemed to come from somewhere between Pettycoat Junction and The Outer Limits.

I went-a-caucus-ing the other night with my wife and son. When it was over, my boy looked up at me and said "This is so BOOORRRRRIIIIINNNNNGGGGG! All you grown-ups do is BLAH BLAH BLAH!"

I told him "That's the price you pay for freedom."

The Blob

Look at me, I'm on the blob!!! Pretty sure I am the only person in their twenties who doesn't have internet.

In answer to the job question (it's a doozy):

First job ever was Dairy Queen. I was 14 but lied on my application and said I was 15 because it was illegal for me to work at 14. Went on to Walgreens, a skating rink, silver keosk at Southdale, spent one day at Baker's Square, an art gallery, a car wash (I found a toe ring in the vacuum, boiled it in water, and wear it to this day). A day care, a day camp at the Jewish Community Center, waitressed at 3 different places (so far), painted houses for a half a day (found out that I was afraid of heights, left at lunch and never came back). Employment Counselor, Child Care Worker at a shelter and DJ. Not to mention all the ones I have now. I actually think there are more that I'm forgetting. Wow. I have a tendency to get bored and switch jobs every 1-2 years. Time to start thinking about a retirement plan.

Spirit Animal

Earlier this week, we discovered at least five members of our team are in fact that youngest child in the family. When I was about five, my mother asked it what we wanted to be when we grew up. Jim (my oldest brother) said "Farmer on Mars due to their rich soil." Matt (my middle brother) wanted to be "Either a Baseball player or Politician." I decided that a good career path would be "Giraffe".

I don't think I'd consider my Spirit Animal as a Giraffe. I'm convinced you can ride a Moose but I have only seen one once at the Como zoo. I was born in the year of the Monkey (technically 1981 is the year of the Cock, but if you're born before the Chinese New Year, it's still the previous year) which does seem somewhat fitting. I used to collect Koala & Panda bears when I lived in China as a kid. Obviously, the Lyger (tiger/lion) joke has been played out due to Napeleon Dynamite. So, what then, is my spirit animal? I'd have to go with a Cow.

First Resume at 10

Seriously, I typed it on my mom's electric Smith Corona. I had three goals when I grew up: to have a big office, drive a corvette and wear suits. (in the 70's no one told me about saving the rainforests, but I'm sure that would have made the list...). Jobs I've had: of course LOTS of babysitting; get-out-the vote calls for the Republican party; delivered newspapers; grocery sacker; made and sold salt-free spice mixes; cleaned houses; managed a lingerie store; desktop publishing all through college; answered 10 phone lines (for a day); filed things for a bank president; office manager of an enviornmental consulting firm; sold advertising; had two babies; oh, and then this marketing gig for the last 10 years. My next goal: drive in a demolition derby. Sponsors?

BAT SOLO

I added my jobs under the comment section of Mookies post, but i did forget a few. I was a newspaper carrier, and for a brief time an art director for a entertainment paper, and a dishwasher as well.  I believe that is all. I am such a hoar of all trades that i am sure i have forgotten things.

Lighthouse, really...?

I wanted to be Batman or Han Solo, but i am sure all of you figured that already.

Tim's amazing career path

To answer Mookie's question regarding past jobs... here you go.

I have been a hired farmhand, worked in a Deli, was a graphic designer at a paper in Rochester, MN for about six years, was an agriculture volunteer in the U.S. Peace Corps, worked as production manager for three different "employment" newspapers, before becoming a graphic designer at the MN State Fair.

Much different than the career path that I had laid out for myself at the age of five, where I wanted to be a lighthouse. Not a lighthouse "worker"... I wanted to be a lighthouse.

Regrets? Perhaps.

Lifeprov...

My favorite thing about Montage is when we start exploring scenes related to odd jobs in our own lives. What kind of strange (or not-so-strange) occupations has any everyone had?

I've been a Librarian, Lawn Mower, 35mm Projectionist, Worked in Import-Export Customs Software, Video Clerk, AV Tech, Auto Insurance Analyst, Mathematics Homework Programmer, Medical Foods Pricing Expert, Reconciler and Money Marketing Marketing Admin. And once I made $100 when my band played at a church event.

Rah rah

I think if the sweaters last night didn't bring people closer, this will. For the record, this is my first blogging experience and I must say I couldn't be sharing it with lovlier people. I'm looking forward to having one more distraction from my job. ...is this where i end with "GO TEAM!" ?

Welcome all!!!!! It is time to BLOG IT!

Hey all,

I figured we needed a little extra forum to get out groove on.  So here it is.

I would love it if everyone would contribute feelings, ideas, notes, etc.. 

Hopefully this can heighten an already great connection this group is starting to put together.

Thanks everyone.

By the way. Great rehearsal last night.  

Jason