Clown Combat for the Improviser Too!
With Judi Lewis-Ockler
Friday, March 29, 2019, 7:00pm - 9:30pm
Studios 353
353 W 48th Street, Studio B
New York, NY 10036
"I'm not funny. What I am is brave."- Lucille Ball
WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION:
This workshop is designed to continue exploring stage combat and clown techinques as tools for the clown/improviser who wants a fight performance of the moment, executed with safe, reliable, structured technique the performer can depend on, so as not to maim or die or scare the audience for real! Clown Combat Too! continues basic timing and rhythmic elements inherent to physical comedy and clown using high energy games, improvisation, and simple unarmed stage combat techniques.
Clown is an invaluable art form that gives special credence to live performance, to human nature, to laughter. Clown Combat Too endeavors to bring these ideas to performers in a safe, fun, and respectful environment which, with a little bravery on their part, allows for the performer's clown to come out and play with reckless abandon.
Open to performers with previous basic stage combat/clown/improv training.
Class requirements: comfortable workout clothing/shoes
Max: 16 people
JUDI LEWIS-OCKLER falls down for a living. She works as a stunt performer in NYC (visit judi's imdb page). She is a founding member of Kendall Cornell’s Clowns Ex Machina, and has performed commissioned pieces with them for Cirque du Soliel and La Mama, Etc. She is a resident variety performer in NYC, producing live events and clown spectacle with such clients as Brookfield Place, US Open, South Street Seaport Museum, and the Brooklyn Academy of Music. Her one woman show, Rock n' Roll Mother Goose! premiered at the New York Clown Festival 2016, directed by Barry Lubin, and continues to tour the US. She teaches clown and stage combat on a regular basis at AMDA, The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts, Brooklyn Arts Exchange, and Broadway Teaching Group. www.judilewisockler.com
Reserve your spot by emailing IRTEinfo@gmail.com
Cost:
Early Bird Special: $60 per person until 3/22/2019
After 3/22/2018, $70
(Refund if reservation cancelled 48 hours in advance)
Refund if reservation cancelled 48 hours in advance.
If you purchased through Coursehorse, then our Refund & Cancellation policy applies to your purchase. If you are entitled to a refund, or have any questions, please contact Coursehorse here.
Share The Scene! The Art of Give and Take
with Scotty Watson
Saturday, April 27, 2019 2:00pm - 5:00pm
Theatre Row Studios
411 West 41st Street, Studio 6
New York, NY 10036
The GIRTEs
2023/2024 Ensemble
IRTE has been very lucky to have had some amazing performers and directors join us for various productions.
Evie earned a BFA in Musical Theater, Syracuse University. She's appeared in projects for TruTV, HBO Films & USA Network (w/Gilbert Gottfried). Winner of the “Save World Sanity” Award, Comedy Central. Finalist in BudLight “Ladies of Laughter” & La Mega 97.9FM Radio stand up comedy competitions. Evie volunteers with Cherub Improv & teaches Seated Zumba for Red Door Community (formerly Gilda's Club NYC), Brklyn Public Library, and VISIONS center for the blind in NYC & Lehman College (Aqua Zumba).
Tony Bozanich is an actor, comedian, and improviser living in New York City. His theater credits include The Court Martial of Admiral Montojo, A Therapy Session With Myself, and Sigh No More as well as five different productions with IRTE. He trained at the Barrow Group, Annoyance Theater, and Upright Citizens Brigade after dropping out of a PhD program in Italian Renaissance history at the Warburg Institute in London. He can currently be seen performing improv all around the city.
Natalie Hunter is a NY based actor and writer. Since pursuing her BFA in Acting at Adelphi University, she has acted in NYC productions, done voiceover work for Audible, and trained in improv at UCB. Her most recent long-term acting gig was playing Asphyxia at the Jekyll & Hyde Club. She has written several plays that have been spotted at NYSummerfest and other festivals and attended the Michaelangelo Screenwriting Retreat in Italy. Fun fact: she identifies as half Aries, half cat.
Sam Katz has been performing with IRTE since 2014. She studied acting with John Howard Swain and improvisational theatre with Scotty Watson of Artistic New Directions. She’s studied with, and performed in showcases directed by, improv masters Michael Gellman, David Razowsky, and the late Gary Austin. Off stage, Katz is in her 26th year as the writer, editor, and executive assistant to the president of the Detectives’ Endowment Association, the labor union of NYPD Detectives.
Bridget Knapp is an actor/ improvisor who’s been doing improv since the 80’s when she was a founding member of The Loose Connection. She took a break to allow life to happen & now she’s back. Bridget can be seen regularly performing at the Magnet Theater with the musical improv duo, Grandma’s Basket. She also continues to teach her weekly improv class for actors on Zoom. Bridget’s biggest fan is her fourteen year old son Harper & she is so excited to be back playing with IRTE!
Will is a NY based Audio Technician and Jack of all trades. He has been A1 at two NY regional theaters and on shows including American Idiot, Menopause and Punk Rock Girl. On top of this he has also been a stage manager for NY Summerfest, and a props specialist for numerous NYC theaters.
Vikki is a Florida transplant who's excited to be in her fifth IRTE show!
John is an Irish songwriter, memoirist & Hot Sauce maker. Read the back issues of his witty & fun newsletter and sign up at bit.ly/MunnellyNewsletters.
Connie Perry is delighted to be a returning cast member. She has a rich and varied creative performance history: stand up comic, actress, improvisational player, singer, host and MC, as well as facilitating visual postcard art projects (www.instagram.com/dearcards). Since being involved with improv she created The CONNIE Awards: An Improv Award Show, a fun way to applaud and appreciate the stellar entertainment value that improv players always bring to the stage.
Annie-Sage Whitehurst is a professionally delusional New Yorker, born and raised. Performances includes theatre (THE DREAMER with The Neo-Political Cowgirls at HERE! Arts Center, THE BACCHAE at La MAMA), film (The Daphne Project, 422 E. 75th St), solo/collaborative experimental performance, improv and voiceover ("Lia Haddock" in LIMETOWN). Recent projects include a multimedia performance residency starring her original character, “Kitten Solloway” at The Players Theatre.
While obtaining degrees in film directing in Ukraine and film production in the United States, Tania Zhelieznikova has worked in various areas of production, including art direction, editing, sound, cinematography, make-up, acting, script supervising, and as a director. Her international experience and perspective in the world of theater and filmmaking continues to progress bringing a unique point of view to every production she takes part in.
2022/2023 Ensemble
Evie earned a BFA in Musical Theater, Syracuse University. She's appeared in projects for TruTV, HBO Films & USA Network (w/Gilbert Gottfried). Winner of the “Save World Sanity” Award, Comedy Central. Finalist in BudLight “Ladies of Laughter” & La Mega 97.9FM Radio stand up comedy competitions. Evie volunteers with Cherub Improv & teaches Seated Zumba for Red Door Community (formerly Gilda's Club NYC), Brklyn Public Library, and VISIONS center for the blind in NYC & Lehman College (Aqua Zumba).
Tony Bozanich is an actor, comedian, and improviser living in New York City. His theater credits include The Court Martial of Admiral Montojo, A Therapy Session With Myself, and Sigh No More as well as four different productions with IRTE. He trained at the Barrow Group, Annoyance Theater, and Upright Citizens Brigade after dropping out of a PhD program in Italian Renaissance history at the Warburg Institute in London. He can currently be seen performing improv all around the city.
Todd started improvising in Los Angeles in 2007 as a way to try something outside of his comfort zone and quickly decided playing make believe was super fun. Todd has studied improv comedy at UCB LA, iO West, and the Magnet Theater. When not performing improv, Todd enjoys exploring New York, traveling, and spending time with his dog Roxy.
Natalie Hunter is a NY based actor and writer. Since pursuing her BFA in Acting at Adelphi University, she has acted in NYC productions, done voiceover work for Audible, and trained in improv at UCB. Her most recent long-term acting gig was playing Asphyxia at the Jekyll & Hyde Club. She has written several plays that have been spotted at NYSummerfest and other festivals and attended the Michaelangelo Screenwriting Retreat in Italy. Fun fact: she identifies as half Aries, half cat.
Sam Katz has been performing as a guest improviser with IRTE since 2014. She has studied acting with John Howard Swain, improvisational theatre with Scotty Watson of Artistic New Directions, and Israel Savage of In-Studios. She’s performed in showcases directed by improv masters Michael Gellman, Gary Austin, and David Razowsky. Off stage, Katz is in her 25th year as the writer, editor, and executive assistant to the president of the NYPD Detectives’ Endowment Association.
Will is a NY based Audio Technician and Jack of all trades. He has been A1 at two NY regional theaters and on shows including American Idiot, Menopause and Punk Rock Girl. On top of this he has also been a stage manager for NY Summerfest, and a props specialist for numerous NYC theaters.
Vikki is a Florida transplant who's excited to be in her third IRTE show (She can also be seen doing spooky stuff with Horror company Humanpincushionproductions)!
John is an Irish songwriter, memoirist & Hot Sauce maker. Read the back issues of his witty & fun newsletter and sign up at bit.ly/MunnellyNewsletters.
Chris is a recent graduate of the Terry Knickerbocker Studio of Acting, and previous team member and sketch writing teacher with IN Studios. An accomplished musical theater actor as well, past credits include starring Off-Broadway in The Imbible at New World Stages and touring the country as The Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz. Offstage Chris is a personal trainer, marathon runner, and lover of cats and Taylor Swift.
Pat Shay has performed for touring companies or house teams at IO Chicago, Second City, UCB, & The PIT. He performed for a long time in Chicago, working with Del Close and Mick Napier before moving to NY. He's coached and directed groups all over the country and has taught at IO and The PIT. On TV, he's played parts on The Blacklist, FBI, and national commercials.He and his wife Mary Theresa Archbold host the FunnyParents podcast, a storytelling show of parents who work in the comedy business.
2021/2022 Ensemble
Evie earned a BFA in Musical Theater, Syracuse University. She's appeared in projects for TruTV, HBO Films & USA Network (w/Gilbert Gottfried). Winner of the “Save World Sanity” Award, Comedy Central. Finalist in BudLight “Ladies of Laughter” & La Mega 97.9FM Radio stand up comedy competitions. Evie volunteers with Cherub Improv & teaches Seated Zumba for Red Door Community (formerly Gilda's Club NYC), Brklyn Public Library, and VISIONS center for the blind in NYC & Lehman College (Aqua Zumba).
Tony Bozanich is an actor, comedian, and improviser living in New York City. His recent credits include Captain Ricafrente in the play The Court Martial of Admiral Montojo. He trained at the Barrow Group, Annoyance Theater, and Upright Citizens Brigade after dropping out of a PhD program in Italian Renaissance history at the Warburg Institute in London. He can currently be seen performing stand up and improv all around the city.
Todd Exler is delighted to be joining the talented cast of Tammy's Bachelorette. Todd started improvising in Los Angeles in 2007 as a way to try something outside of his comfort zone and quickly decided playing make believe was super fun. Todd's studied improv comedy at UCB LA, iO West, and the Magnet Theater. When not performing improv, Todd enjoys exploring New York, traveling, and spending time with his dog Roxy.
Natalie Hunter is a NY based actor and writer. Since pursuing her BFA in Acting at Adelphi University, she has acted in NYC productions, done voiceover work for Audible, and trained in improv at UCB. Her most recent long-term acting gig was playing Asphyxia at the Jekyll & Hyde Club. She has written several plays that have been spotted at NYSummerfest and other festivals and attended the Michaelangelo Screenwriting Retreat in Italy. Fun fact: she identifies as half Aries, half cat.
Sam Katz has been performing as a guest improviser with IRTE since 2014. She has studied acting with John Howard Swain, improvisational theatre with Scotty Watson of Artistic New Directions, and Israel Savage of In-Studios. She’s performed in showcases directed by improv masters Michael Gellman, Gary Austin, and David Razowsky. Off stage, Katz is in her 25th year as the writer, editor, and executive assistant to the president of the NYPD Detectives’ Endowment Association.
Connie Perry is delighted to be a returning cast member. She has a rich and varied creative performance history: stand up comic, actress, improvisational player, singer, host and MC, as well as facilitating visual postcard art projects (www.instagram.com/dearcards). Since being involved with improv she created The CONNIE Awards: An Improv Award Show, a fun way to applaud and appreciate the stellar entertainment value that improv players always bring to the stage.
MARC ADAM SMITH (SAG-AFTRA) is a native New Yorker and an Actor, Director, Writer, Producer, Stand-up, Improvisor, why if you name a performing type of gig, odds are he has done it, except for Bird Wrangling and there is always tomorrow for that. Marc Adam started out his career as an on-air radio personalty in CT in the late 80's, and it's been all about show business since then.
Vikki is a Florida transplant who's excited to be in her first IRTE show (She can also be seen doing spooky stuff with Horror company Humanpincushionproductions)!
Craig Greenberg has been hailed as NYC’s most acclaimed post-millennial piano man. Over the past 15 years, the native New Yorker has been a staple on the city’s music scene, capturing and building on the spirited ivory traditions of greats like Billy Joel, Ben Folds and Randy Newman with sparkling, soulful new musical twists, a larger than life personality and his insightful, dramatic sense of storytelling.
Will is a NY based Audio Technician and Jack of all trades. He has been A1 at two NY regional theaters and on shows including American Idiot, Menopause and Punk Rock Girl. On top of this he has also been a stage manager for NY Summerfest, and a props specialist for numerous NYC theaters.
Tym Moss is a dynamic performer who has performed on stages around the country. Tym is a Singer, Actor, Radio/TV Host (Artists Exposed w Tym Moss), Songwriter, Producer etc in TV, Radio, Film, Cabaret, Music and Theater. His EP called Free Again is available on iTunes and Amazon.com. He also recently starred in the ground-breaking movie musical JUNK. Tym Moss is also an LGBT Activist and Advocate.
John Munnelly is your everyday renaissance man, award winning songwriter, published author, performer, tech-guy & blue collar man; too often found spanner in hand, working on the Volvo or house. Crafty in the kitchen as the producer of the five star Hattwood Hot Sauce. Never far away from his Mrs Desi or dachshund Klaus. Check out IrishJohn's saucy bits on hattwood.com, youtube.com/laughjohnlaugh & on MunnellyMutters.com. John recommends you subscribe to his newsletter on johnmunnellymusic.com
Aaron Mx is an American singer-songwriter born and raised in the suburbs of Los Angeles, California. After years of performing everywhere from the LA club circuits to touring through much of the United States, his band dreams were stopped in their tracks by the 2020 Pandemic. Never to be thwarted, Aaron used the downtime to write and record a new album: 2021’s Love Letters From The Revolution. He now lives in NYC where he continues to tour and make music he hopes will inspire.
Elke Reid, who hails from New York City, is an actress, writer, producer, director and experienced improvisor. She is apart of several indie improv teams who have performed at The People's Improv Theater (The PIT) and Upright Citizen's Brigade (UCB). And she has also performed and taught at several improv and sketch festivals across the world. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: ElkeTV
Pat Shay has performed for touring companies or house teams at IO Chicago, Second City, UCB, & The PIT. He performed for a long time in Chicago, working with Del Close and Mick Napier before moving to NY. He's coached and directed groups all over the country and has taught at IO and The PIT. On TV, he's played parts on The Blacklist, FBI, and national commercials.He and his wife Mary Theresa Archbold host the FunnyParents podcast, a storytelling show of parents who work in the comedy business.
Jack Spalding is more than excited to make his New York City debut with IRTE. Jack is an actor and improvisor from Marin County California with a BA in Theatre Arts from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. His creative endeavors have included short films, audio-drama podcast series, and the finest improv comedy California’s Central Coast has to offer. Now based in NYC, Jack is here to make theater-goers laugh and chew bubblegum… And he’s fresh out of bubblegum.
While obtaining degrees in film directing in Ukraine and film production in the United States, Tania Zhelieznikova has worked in various areas of production, including art direction, editing, sound, cinematography, make-up, acting, script supervising, and as a director. Her international experience and perspective in the world of theater and filmmaking continues to progress bringing a unique point of view to every production she takes part in.
2020 Ensemble
Tony Bozanich is an actor, comedian, and improviser living in New York City. His recent credits include Captain Ricafrente in the play The Court Martial of Admiral Montojo. He trained at the Barrow Group, Annoyance Theater, and Upright Citizens Brigade after dropping out of a PhD program in Italian Renaissance history at the Warburg Institute in London. He can currently be seen performing stand up and improv all around the city.
Izzy Church is a self-empowered entertainer dedicated to creating entertaining and educational content for a wide audience. She has been recognized as an actress, author and artist. Izzy studied acting with Maggie Flanigan, Shakespeare from NYU Tisch School of the Arts with Shane-Ann Younts, Improv with UCB and IN Studios, film production at SVA, and graduated Suma Cum Laude from MaryMount Manhattan College with a degree in Communication Arts, specializing in writing for film and television.
Glorianne “Glo” Cody is a Brooklyn based Voice Actor, Producer, Improvisor, and Stand up Comic. Glo has voiced and produced commercial content for some of the world’s largest brands. She’s performed improv with Magnet Theater and cut her teeth in Comedy at the Comedy Cellar with Rick Crom. In her vast spare time, when she’s not performing and trying to make you laugh, she can be found dancing, surfing, and knitting.
Natalie Hunter is a NY based actor and writer. Since pursuing her BFA in Acting at Adelphi University, she has acted in NYC productions, done voiceover work for Audible, and trained in improv at UCB. Her most recent long-term acting gig was playing Asphyxia at the Jekyll & Hyde Club. She has written several plays that have been spotted at NYSummerfest and other festivals and attended the Michaelangelo Screenwriting Retreat in Italy. Fun fact: she identifies as half Aries, half cat.
Sam Katz has been performing as a guest improviser with IRTE since 2014. She has studied acting with John Howard Swain, improvisational theatre with Scotty Watson of Artistic New Directions, and Israel Savage of In-Studios. She’s performed in showcases directed by improv masters Michael Gellman, Gary Austin, and David Razowsky. Off stage, Katz is in her 22nd year as the writer, editor, and executive assistant to the president of the NYPD Detectives’ Endowment Association.
Esther is a recent graduate of Magnet Theatre’s improv conservatory program. She found herself so lucky to live in New York City and to have amazing opportunities to study and perform with the best at Magnet Theater, PIT and UCB. You can find her on any stage, from bar basement to main stage of major theaters. She calls this lovely New York comedy improv community her new home. When she's not performing comedy improv, she can be found DJing at the Standard Hotel et al and still dancing funny.
Lars Montanaro is a Brooklyn based actor/comedian/doctor/lawyer/brand ambassador/philanthropist and the acting chair of the Iowa Democratic Caucus Quality Assurance Team. He likes theater a lot and performs all over New York City (and some other places too!) Download him for free here:
Connie Perry met IRTE members at AND’s per4mance weekend, an annual improv workshop. Now what an honor to be a guest! Connie has a rich and varied performance history as a stand up comedian, actress, improvisational player, singer, host and MC. She has produced and promoted many comedy shows, as well as written her own jokes, monologues, rants and stories. Desperate to diffuse customer service stress she attempts more humor here:
Bill is thrilled to play with this wonderful group of fellow improvisers. Bill began improvising around the time he was born and has been exploring the various expressions and nuances of this form ever since. In New York and L.A. he’s had the joy and privilege to play with many great performers and improvisers from IRTE, Gotham City Improv, Violin Spolin and Gary Austin workshops, and more. He is continually inspired by his fellow performers and is excited to discover what will happen next.
David Jay is an adult entertainer who first got his start in the Catskills resorts, before heading west to the glitzy clubs of Reno. Without any training or ability, his musical stylings have brought joy and tears to his handful of fans.
Tym Moss is a dynamic performer who has performed on stages around the country. Tym is a Singer, Actor, Radio/TV Host (Artists Exposed w Tym Moss), Songwriter, Producer etc in TV, Radio, Film, Cabaret, Music and Theater. His EP called Free Again is available on iTunes and Amazon.com. Tym Moss is also an LGBT Activist and Advocate.
Will Knapp is a technical theater worker based on Long Island. He has made props and set pieces for shows such as Beauty and the Beast in East Northport, Ellipses in NY Summerfest, and Signs in the Six O'clock Sky at Theater for the New City, as well as having been Stage Manager and Lighting Designer and light boardop for Ellipses, and currently works for Futureproof in Brooklyn.
2019 gIRTEs
Evie Aronson earned a BFA in Musical Theatre from Syracuse University. She has appeared in projects for TruTV, HBO Films,and also on USA Network(w/Gilbert Gottfried). Winner of the "Save World Sanity" Award from Comedy Central. Finalist in BudLight "Ladies of Laughter" and La Mega 97.9FM Radio stand up comedy competitions. Evie volunteers with Cherub Improv and also teaches Zumba at Gilda's Club NY, Z Club NY and Lehman College. www.eviechevy.blogspot or youtube.com/eviearonson
Bill is thrilled to play with this wonderful group of improvisers. Bill began improvising around the time he was born and has been exploring the various expressions and nuances of this form ever since. In NYC and LA he’s had the joy and privilege to play with many great performers and improvisers from IRTE (Ensemble member 2015-17), Gotham City Improv, Violin Spolin & Gary Austin workshops, and more. He's continually inspired by his fellow performers and is excited to discover what happens next.
Tony Bozanich is an actor, comedian, and improviser living in New York City. His recent credits include Captain Ricafrente in the play The Court Martial of Admiral Montojo. He trained at the Barrow Group, Annoyance Theater, and Upright Citizens Brigade after dropping out of a PhD program in Italian Renaissance history at the Warburg Institute in London. He can currently be seen performing stand up and improv all around the city.
Michael Hauschild is a world traveled Improviser that has performed on the Second City and UCB stage's. Michael can be seen as a featured Improviser on ABC's "What Would You Do?". As well as performing Michael also works as an Instructor at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy and as the administrator for The Affordable Master Class Project.
Natalie Hunter is a NY based actor and writer. Since pursuing her BFA in Acting at Adelphi University, she has acted in NYC productions, done voiceover work for Audible, and trained in improv at UCB. Her most recent long-term acting gig was playing Asphyxia at the Jekyll & Hyde Club. She has written several plays that have been spotted at NYSummerfest and other festivals and attended the Michaelangelo Screenwriting Retreat in Italy. Fun fact: she identifies as half Aries, half cat.
Sam Katz has been performing as a guest improviser with IRTE since 2014. She has studied acting with John Howard Swain, improvisational theatre with Scotty Watson of Artistic New Directions, and Israel Savage of In-Studios. She’s performed in showcases directed by improv masters Michael Gellman, Gary Austin, and David Razowsky. Off stage, Katz is in her 22nd year as the writer, editor, and executive assistant to the president of the NYPD Detectives’ Endowment Association.
Claire Kraus is a professional performer with an improv journey that started in high school. Since graduating from American Musical and Dramatic Academy, she's appeared in the NYC comedy, improv, dance & film scenes. Credits include Anne Bonny in the NY Renaissance Faire, a company member of The Stowaways & performing with TheEdwardMorganBallet. Most recently, Claire has been acting & producing an original, reoccurring sketch comedy show at the PIT with her group Multiple Girlfriends.
Bridget Knapp is an actor/improvisor who's been doing improv since the 80's when she was a founding member of The Loose Connection. She took a break to allow life to happen and now she's back. Among those she has studied with are Aretha Sills, Hal Peller & is currently at Improvolution. Bridget can be seen around town jammin' with her troupe Exploding Fruit & she has two films coming out this fall. Her biggest fan is her nine year old son, Harper.
Ryan Lea is a fresh graduate from The New York Conservatory For Dramatic Arts. He loves to describe himself as a tall, Californian mutt and will speak to you endlessly about any of these topics. He currently studies at UCB and has previously performed improv with The University of California Santa Barbara's premier college improv team Improvability. Besides performing he likes writing, playing music, and hosting parties where having fun is demanded of his guests. Check out his website for more!
Connie Perry met IRTE members at AND’s per4mance weekend, an annual improv workshop. Now what an honor to be a guest! Connie has a rich and varied performance history as a stand up comedian, actress, improvisational player, singer, host and MC. She has produced and promoted many comedy shows, as well as written her own jokes, monologues, rants and stories. Desperate to diffuse customer service stress she attempts more humor here:
David Jay is an adult entertainer who first got his start in the Catskills resorts, before heading west to the glitzy clubs of Reno. Without any training or ability, his musical stylings have brought joy and tears to his handful of fans.
Tym Moss is a dynamic performer who has performed on stages around the country. Tym is a Singer, Actor, Radio/TV Host (Artists Exposed w Tym Moss), Songwriter, Producer etc in TV, Radio, Film, Cabaret, Music and Theater. His EP called Free Again is available on iTunes and Amazon.com. Tym Moss is also an LGBT Activist and Advocate.
Anne is the Technical Director and On the Fly Lighting Designer for IRTE. She’s had the pleasure of working and laughing with IRTE for several seasons now. Anne was the Technical Director of Gotham City Improv for three years where she could also be seen performing improv with the groups Falling Anvil and No Laugh Track Required. She has worked all over the city doing everything imaginable backstage and her greatest happiness is to just be part of the show.
Curt first began doing improv with The Groundlings in Los Angeles. He now lives in New York where he has been doing improv for more than 10 years. He has performed with Gotham City Improv, The Red Tie Mafia and is a founding member of IRTE (IRTE Ensemble 2012-2018). He produced and directed the hit show Match Wits and has acted in several plays. He's written and produced short films and is always looking for new and creative outlets for his craft. He also enjoys beer.
Will Knapp is a technical theater worker based on Long Island. He has made props and set pieces for shows such as Beauty and the Beast in East Northport, Ellipses in NY Summerfest, and Signs in the Six O'clock Sky at Theater for the New City, as well as having been Stage Manager and Lighting Designer and light boardop for Ellipses, and currently works for Futureproof in Brooklyn.
2018 gIRTEs
Evie Aronson earned a BFA in Musical Theatre from Syracuse University. She has appeared in projects for TruTV, HBO Films,and also on USA Network(w/Gilbert Gottfried). Winner of the "Save World Sanity" Award from Comedy Central. Finalist in BudLight "Ladies of Laughter" and La Mega 97.9FM Radio stand up comedy competitions. Evie volunteers with Cherub Improv and also teaches Zumba at Gilda's Club NY, Z Club NY and Lehman College. www.eviechevy.blogspot or youtube.com/eviearonson
Izzy Church is a self-empowered entertainer dedicated to creating entertaining and educational content for a wide audience. She has been recognized as an actress, author and artist. Izzy studied acting with Maggie Flanigan, Shakespeare from NYU Tisch School of the Arts with Shane-Ann Younts, Improv with UCB and IN Studios, film production at SVA, and graduated Suma Cum Laude from MaryMount Manhattan College with a degree in Communication Arts, specializing in writing for film and television.
Heather Johnson is a New York based actor and improviser. She trains and performs at The People’s Improv Theater. Recently she performed in a sketch comedy show, Moxie: RGSB, at The Magnet Theater. In her free time she enjoys getting her hands on anything sweet or deep fried she can find, volunteering at her neighborhood museum, and making average day life moments as awkward as possible.
Studied acting with John Howard Swain & Tony Lo Bianco; improv theatre with Scotty Watson & David Marx of Artistic New Directions, Israel Savage of IN-Studios. Recently performed in showcases directed by Michael Gellman, Gary Austin, David Razowsky & Scotty Watson. Has taken workshops with Kevin Frank, Rachel Hamilton, Gabrielle Maisels, Page Clements. Off stage Katz is on her 20th year as the writer, editor, and executive asst to the president of the Detectives’ Endowment Association.
Bridget Knapp is an actor/improvisor who's been doing improv since the 80's when she was a founding member of The Loose Connection. She took a break to allow life to happen and now she's back. Among those she has studied with are Aretha Sills, Hal Peller & is currently at Improvolution. Bridget can be seen around town jammin' with her troupe Exploding Fruit & she has two films coming out this fall. Her biggest fan is her nine year old son, Harper.
Alex Palmer is an actress, writer and improviser from NYC. She has studied improv at UCB and The PIT. She recently wrote and starred in her own webseries “Entitled?!” on YouTube. She’s convinced Jane Krakowski is her real Mom.
Connie Perry met IRTE members at AND’s per4mance weekend, an annual improv workshop. Now what an honor to be a guest! Connie has a rich and varied performance history as a stand up comedian, actress, improvisational player, singer, host and MC. She has produced and promoted many comedy shows, as well as written her own jokes, monologues, rants and stories. Desperate to diffuse customer service stress she attempts more humor here:
Cheryl is happy to be working with IRTE for the first time. She has studied at People’s Improv Theater and at UCB. Currently, Cheryl is improving through life as an actor.
Steve Tardio is a NYC based voiceover actor, musician and improviser with training from The Second City-Chicago, UCB, The PIT, Chicago City Limits and The Magnet Theater. Steve writes and performs with his Musical Improv Sketch Comedy group, "MISC, Inc.” and his musical improv team, "The 29th Street Revue”. Steve has voiced television commercials for Fisher-Price toys, Pepsi, Ford Motor Company, NBA-TV and animated TV characters for shows on the Disney Channel.
Jeff has worked professionally in the arts for more than a decade; performing on stages & screens across the US & his native Canada before making the transition to behind the table as a Director, Choreographer & Teaching Artist.Recently Jeff served as Choreographer/Performance Director for Cirque Musica:BELIEVE–an international arena tour. His work as Director/Choreographer ranges from new musical productions to workshops & special events & has taken him across America,Canada & to Southern China
Craig has been called this generation's "troubadour piano man" (Jambands.com, Jan 2011), combining the pop sensibilities and greatly skilled musicianship of Billy Joel and Ben Folds, with the lyrical smarts of Randy Newman. His voice brims with soul and personality, coming from his strong native New Yorker identity, and from his experience getting his start while living abroad, performing in the bars and on the streets of Chile and Spain from 2001 to 2003.
David Jay is a lounge singer who first got his start at Grossinger’s Resort, before heading west to the glitzy clubs of Reno. Without any training or ability, his musical stylings have brought joy and tears to his handful of fans.
Tym Moss is a dynamic performer who has performed on stages around the country. Tym is a Singer, Actor, Radio/TV Host (Artists Exposed w Tym Moss), Songwriter, Producer etc in TV, Radio, Film, Cabaret, Music and Theater. His EP called Free Again is available on iTunes and Amazon.com. Tym Moss is also an LGBT Activist and Advocate.
John is an Irish born songwriter, performer & teacher now living in Brooklyn. Also running contrary to the received wisdom that Irish people can't do spice (at all, at all) John is the chef, cook and bottle-washer at Hattwood Hot Sauce and according to repeat customers reviews has invented a food enhancer par excellence. Let's face it some meals need a little help. Hattwood Hot Sauce - making your world more saucy! The reviews are mighty, hattwood.com
Rew is a staple of the east village’s eclectic scene. A lyricist & comedienne with a heart of gold, she channels equal parts Courtney Love &a gothic version of Olivia Benson (Law & Order). ReW has been working with Manta Ray Records recording & releasing new material. Her path has taken her into film & stage. Many of the films she's recently been in are in festivals. She's just been nominated for Best Actress in a Comedy in 'GARBAGGIO' (Hang onto Your Shorts festival in Asbury Park.
2017 gIRTEs
Getchie Argetsinger (AEA, SAG-AFTRA) Getchie’s acting career spans four decades in theatre, TV, and film. She has appeared Off-Broadway, regionally and in several national tours as well as in Retro feature films (Annie Hall) and television favorites (The Sopranos). A Ruth Gordon for the 21st Century, she also delights in performing as a professional Children’s Storyteller nationwide. Getchie is very happy to join the merry band of IRTE’S Avoidance! cast.
Evie Aronson earned a BFA in Musical Theatre from Syracuse University. She has appeared in projects for TruTV, HBO Films,and also on USA Network(w/Gilbert Gottfried). Winner of the "Save World Sanity" Award from Comedy Central. Finalist in BudLight "Ladies of Laughter" and La Mega 97.9FM Radio stand up comedy competitions. Evie volunteers with Cherub Improv and also teaches Zumba at Gilda's Club NY, Z Club NY and Lehman College. www.eviechevy.blogspot or youtube.com/eviearonson
Michael Hauschild is a world traveled Improviser that has performed on the Second City and UCB stage's. Michael can be seen as a featured Improviser on ABC's "What Would You Do?". As well as performing Michael also works as an Instructor at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy and as the administrator for The Affordable Master Class Project.
Studied acting with John Howard Swain & Tony Lo Bianco; improv theatre with Scotty Watson & David Marx of Artistic New Directions, Israel Savage of IN-Studios. Recently performed in showcases directed by Michael Gellman, Gary Austin, David Razowsky & Scotty Watson. Has taken workshops with Kevin Frank, Rachel Hamilton, Gabrielle Maisels, Page Clements. Off stage Katz is on her 20th year as the writer, editor, and executive asst to the president of the Detectives’ Endowment Association.
Brianna Lee is a NYC based actress and comedian who fell in love with performing and making people laugh at a very early age. She’s written and performed in oodles of comedy projects with her comedy group CityOnFilm, including digital shorts, music videos, & the feature length film SEAN. Her online comedy duo Wrong Island Pictures has their first web series premiering this spring. Brianna studied improv in NYC at the UCB training center, and performed as a company member with Gotham City Improv.
Connie Perry met IRTE members at AND’s per4mance weekend, an annual improv workshop. Now what an honor to be a guest! Connie has a rich and varied performance history as a stand up comedian, actress, improvisational player, singer, host and MC. She has produced and promoted many comedy shows, as well as written her own jokes, monologues, rants and stories. Desperate to diffuse customer service stress she attempts more humor here:
Tara Sargente is a New York based actor. She studied Theater/Improv at Fordham University and New York Film Academy. She was in the sketch comedy group CAP and awarded funniest female. Tara recently played Vixen in the Off-Off-Broadway show The Eight: Reindeer Monologues and hosted a nightly interactive horror comedy show Theater of the Macabre. She's also performed in indie films that were featured in festivals. Tara is currently working on new media projects.
Dave has been performing for the people of New England for many years! First as a jazz pianist during his years as a music major studying music theory/composition at UMass Dartmouth, then as a guitarist in rock bands based out of southcoast MA and Providence, RI. Always a singer/songwriter, his influences range from being firmly founded in classical music as a child to grunge era rock and early bebop jazz.
Eli is a bluegrass, folk based singer songwriter hailing from Northfield, MA. To find more original work check out Eli on Bandcamp
Victoria found a congenial home in B’way/Nat’l Tours of The Who's Tommy, How To Succeed Without Really Trying, Aida, The Boy From Oz & Cabaret. Business theater kept her afloat between musicals, including a stint as an improvising emcee directed by Martin de Maat (The Second City). She has appeared with Lou Rawls, Barry White, Stevie Wonder, The East Village Opera Co., Brooklyn Rundfunk Orkestrata & Steely Dan. Victoria sings regularly with hip-hop/jazz outfit Nickel Cinco and the Dime Ops.
Craig has been called this generation's "troubadour piano man" (Jambands.com, Jan 2011), combining the pop sensibilities and greatly skilled musicianship of Billy Joel and Ben Folds, with the lyrical smarts of Randy Newman. His voice brims with soul and personality, coming from his strong native New Yorker identity, and from his experience getting his start while living abroad, performing in the bars and on the streets of Chile and Spain from 2001 to 2003.
David Jay is a lounge singer who first got his start at Grossinger’s Resort, before heading west to the glitzy clubs of Reno. Without any training or ability, his musical stylings have brought joy and tears to his handful of fans.
Tym Moss is a dynamic performer who has performed on stages around the country. Tym is a Singer, Actor, Radio/TV Host (Artists Exposed w Tym Moss), Songwriter, Producer etc in TV, Radio, Film, Cabaret, Music and Theater. His EP called Free Again is available on iTunes and Amazon.com. Tym Moss is also an LGBT Activist and Advocate.
John is a singer-songwriter and artist from Cavan, Ireland now living in Brooklyn NY. He won the Jay Gorney ASCAP award for a song with a social conscience in 2009. He teaches his unique songwriting ‘Boot Camp’ at the Irish Arts Center in New York City. He makes an amazing Hot Sauce.
Noam Osband is a documentary filmmaker, musician, and educator. Lastly and most importantly, he is also a huge Boston sports fan. He bleeds red for his Sox.
Soul-Songwritter, Poet, Cultural Community worker, Educator, Tai Chi practitioner and father, Jonathan "Santos" is an artist of many forms.
MARC ADAM SMITH (SAG-AFTRA) is a native New Yorker and an Actor, Director, Writer, Producer, Stand-up, Improvisor, why if you name a performing type of gig, odds are he has done it, except for Bird Wrangling and there is always tomorrow for that. Marc Adam started out his career as an on-air radio personalty in CT in the late 80's, and it's been all about show business since then.
"So unique is ReW it's a wonder that she isn't already signed and making millions," Kisho (Pussy Rock entertainment). RoCkSTaRLeTTe & hostess/producer of underground webshow *Rew & WhO?* Sexy, quirky & loaded with chutzpah, her award winning song 'u suck' landed on 'the Bad Girls Club' & even Stacy London couldn't tame this whipper snapper on TLC's 'Love, Lust or Run." ReW sings with little kids by day, and big kids by night. Her light shines bright and she's dedicated to making the world better
Elijah writes love-drunk odes to Goddesses of flesh & fantasy; loves Bruce Springsteen and Stevie Wonder in equal measure; plays guitar with his eyes closed and sings with his mouth open. His most recent album, Saturn has earned raves from the blogosphere. One fan, an ex-cop, told him: "when I just need to do some thinking, I put on Saturn and cruise around the city." Elijah performs regularly in NYC and nationally. His band's shows are rock'n'soul rave-ups dedicated to love and funky precision.
Carla Ulbrich is a comical singer-songwriter and guitarist from Clemson, South Carolina and currently living in New Jersey. Insert your own punchline here. Carla has a love of wordplay and a keen observational eye. She is primarily known for her humorous songs about such topics as wedgies, Waffle House, Klingons, and how rich she would be if she had the copyright on the 'F' Word.
2016 gIRTEs
Alena has played everything from a social worker to a murdered hooker on the Investigation Discovery TV Network. She has performed comedy at UCB, the PIT, with the Red Tie Mafia and LMAOff Broadway. Alena also performs regularly with Live-In Theater and The Murder Mystery Company. She played the role of Rhododendron in the web series come live musical, Mother Eve's Secret Garden of Sensual Sisterhood and spent almost two years in South Korea, creating theater for an educational theme park.
Evie Aronson earned a BFA in Musical Theatre from Syracuse University. She has appeared in projects for TruTV, HBO Films,and also on USA Network(w/Gilbert Gottfried). Winner of the "Save World Sanity" Award from Comedy Central. Finalist in BudLight "Ladies of Laughter" and La Mega 97.9FM Radio stand up comedy competitions. Evie volunteers with Cherub Improv and also teaches Zumba at Gilda's Club NY, Z Club NY and Lehman College. www.eviechevy.blogspot or youtube.com/eviearonson
Nicole Beninato is honored and thrilled to be part of the DIG cast. She has previously appeared on the Discovery I.D. channel shows A Perfect Murder and Deadly Devotions. She also just wrapped filming a role in the independent film Yellow Moon. Nicole would like to thank her fiancé and her dogs Mr. Diggins and Guiseppe for all their love and support. She’d also like to thank everyone reading this for coming to the show.
Melissa Cole (SAG-AFTRA) is excited to share the stage with this incredible ensemble. A native Long Islander, she has studied improv at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre and The People's Improv Theater in New York City. Melissa regularly performs in shows and workshops as part of the volunteer improv comedy troupe Cherub Improv and as a member of the sketch comedy team Small Faces.
Gretchen Elise (AEA) is an actor, singer, improviser, and teaching artist who serves as the Program/Volunteer/Social Media coordinator for Cherub Improv (www.cherubimprov.org). When she's not winging it with the Cherubs, Gretchen can be seen performing comedy in many basements, including the UCB, the PIT loft, and the Magnet. She also acts and sings in basements like the Secret Theater and the Heights Players. She is open to performing at ground level should the opportunity arise.
Studied acting with John Howard Swain & Tony Lo Bianco; improv theatre with Scotty Watson & David Marx of Artistic New Directions, Israel Savage of IN-Studios. Recently performed in showcases directed by Michael Gellman, Gary Austin, David Razowsky & Scotty Watson. Has taken workshops with Kevin Frank, Rachel Hamilton, Gabrielle Maisels, Page Clements. Off stage Katz is on her 19th year as the writer, editor, and executive asst to the president of the Detectives’ Endowment Association.
Brianna Lee is a NYC based actress and comedian who fell in love with performing and making people laugh at a very early age. She’s written and performed in oodles of comedy projects with her comedy group CityOnFilm, including digital shorts, music videos, & the feature length film SEAN. Her online comedy duo Wrong Island Pictures has their first web series premiering this spring. Brianna studied improv in NYC at the UCB training center, and performed as a company member with Gotham City Improv.
Cedric is very excited to dig in for his IRTE debut! Cedric has been acting and performing for over twenty five years and hopes to go for at least twenty five more. Cedric educates the youth of NYC with Story Pirates and is a founding member of the improv team Five for Vendetta. Cedric would like to thank Bill Berg, Nannette Deasy and all of the IRTE team for this opportunity. Can you dig it?
Jeff has studied improv in Los Angeles, New York and Austin with such great teachers as Dave Razowsky, Tom Booker, Armando Diaz and Christian Capozzoli. He's been a member of several improv groups, including indie teams Cat Sitters, Chompers, Goodnight Everybody and Jackson Trollop. He also created his own original improv form: The Mitch-o-scene. Jeff is currently working on his web series "Gettin' Real with Principal O'Leary"
Marcia is an actor, singer, and funny gal who is happiest when combining all of the above. She has over a decade of experience including several national tours, numerous regional productions, some tv and film, many comedy clubs, countless bar basements, and a few gymnatoriums. She has performed with Gotham City Improv, Eight is Never Enough and The Red Tie Mafia. She received her BFA in acting from UNCG and is a proud member of Actors Equity.
MARC ADAM SMITH (SAG-AFTRA) is a native New Yorker and an Actor, Director, Writer, Producer, Stand-up, Improvisor, why if you name a performing type of gig, odds are he has done it, except for Bird Wrangling and there is always tomorrow for that. Marc Adam started out his career as an on-air radio personalty in CT in the late 80's, and it's been all about show business since then.
Craig has been called this generation's "troubadour piano man" (Jambands.com, Jan 2011), combining the pop sensibilities and greatly skilled musicianship of Billy Joel and Ben Folds, with the lyrical smarts of Randy Newman. His voice brims with soul and personality, coming from his strong native New Yorker identity, and from his experience getting his start while living abroad, performing in the bars and on the streets of Chile and Spain from 2001 to 2003.
David Jay is a lounge singer who first got his start at Grossinger’s Resort, before heading west to the glitzy clubs of Reno. Without any training or ability, his musical stylings have brought joy and tears to his handful of fans.
Tym Moss is a dynamic performer who has performed on stages around the country. Tym is a Singer, Actor, Radio/TV Host (Artists Exposed w Tym Moss), Songwriter, Producer etc in TV, Radio, Film, Cabaret, Music and Theater. His EP called Free Again is available on iTunes and Amazon.com. Tym Moss is also an LGBT Activist and Advocate.
Small Batch Mafia makes high-quality handcrafted comedy beats for your earholes. Based in Harlem, SBM is comprised of MC Triple Stout (Bryan Robinson), DJ JD (Scott Wasserman), and J-osh (Josh Phan-Gruber). They’ve performed all over NYC (The PIT, QED with Myq Kaplan and Rob Paravonian, The Standing Room LIC, the Unicorn) and as part of festivals like CMJ and NY Funny Songs Fest. Their first video, “Street Creepin,” is available on YouTube if you search “Street Creepin.”
"So unique is ReW it's a wonder that she isn't already signed and making millions," Kisho (Pussy Rock entertainment). RoCkSTaRLeTTe & hostess/producer of underground webshow *Rew & WhO?* Sexy, quirky & loaded with chutzpah, her award winning song 'u suck' landed on 'the Bad Girls Club' & even Stacy London couldn't tame this whipper snapper on TLC's 'Love, Lust or Run." ReW sings with little kids by day, and big kids by night. Her light shines bright and she's dedicated to making the world better
Elijah writes love-drunk odes to Goddesses of flesh & fantasy; loves Bruce Springsteen and Stevie Wonder in equal measure; plays guitar with his eyes closed and sings with his mouth open. His most recent album, Saturn has earned raves from the blogosphere. One fan, an ex-cop, told him: "when I just need to do some thinking, I put on Saturn and cruise around the city." Elijah performs regularly in NYC and nationally. His band's shows are rock'n'soul rave-ups dedicated to love and funky precision.
Carla Ulbrich is a comical singer-songwriter and guitarist from Clemson, South Carolina and currently living in New Jersey. Insert your own punchline here. Carla has a love of wordplay and a keen observational eye. She is primarily known for her humorous songs about such topics as wedgies, Waffle House, Klingons, and how rich she would be if she had the copyright on the 'F' Word.
2015 gIRTEs
Evie Aronson earned a BFA in Musical Theatre from Syracuse University. She has appeared in projects for TruTV, HBO Films,and also on USA Network(w/Gilbert Gottfried). Winner of the "Save World Sanity" Award from Comedy Central. Finalist in BudLight "Ladies of Laughter" and La Mega 97.9FM Radio stand up comedy competitions. Evie volunteers with Cherub Improv and also teaches Zumba at Gilda's Club NY, Z Club NY and Lehman College. www.eviechevy.blogspot or youtube.com/eviearonson
Nate is currently studying Improv Comedy with Upright Citizens Brigade and is writing a one man show about Jack Torrance from Stephen King’s “The Shining”. He serves as The Voice Inside Your Head on Critical Point Theatre’s podcast “The Grayscale”. Thanks to Bill Berg, Jamal Crowelle, Josh Chenard, and his family.
Melissa Cole (SAG-AFTRA) is excited to share the stage with this incredible ensemble. A native Long Islander, she has studied improv at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre and The People's Improv Theater in New York City. Melissa regularly performs in shows and workshops as part of the volunteer improv comedy troupe Cherub Improv and as a member of the sketch comedy team Small Faces.
Graceann is an actor, writer, and improvisor. She is one half of the two-prov team Double D (fun fact: the other half is Nannette Deasy!) She likes cats, cats, and cats! And what do cats like? The internet. GraceannDorse.com
Studied acting with John Howard Swain & Tony Lo Bianco; improv theatre with Scotty Watson & David Marx of Artistic New Directions, Israel Savage of IN-Studios. Recently performed in showcases directed by Michael Gellman, Gary Austin, David Razowsky & Scotty Watson. Has taken workshops with Kevin Frank, Rachel Hamilton, Gabrielle Maisels, Page Clements. Off stage Katz is on her 19th year as the writer, editor, and executive asst to the president of the Detectives’ Endowment Association.
Brianna Lee is a NYC based actress and comedian who fell in love with performing and making people laugh at a very early age. She’s written and performed in oodles of comedy projects with her comedy group CityOnFilm, including digital shorts, music videos, & the feature length film SEAN. Her online comedy duo Wrong Island Pictures has their first web series premiering this spring. Brianna studied improv in NYC at the UCB training center, and performed as a company member with Gotham City Improv.
Brian Michael is one of NYC's rising comedic stars, performing sketch and improv with some of the city's funniest troupes. Unleashing his off-the-wall, energetic humor in shows at UCB East, The P.I.T. & The Broadway Comedy Club. He's currently performing as a member of Gotham City Improv company. This year, the SAG-AFTRA actor & William Esper Studio grad will be appearing opposite Chris Rock, Tracey Morgan, Jay Pharaoh and Michael Che in the feature film Finally Famous (2014).
Jeff has studied improv in Los Angeles, New York and Austin with such great teachers as Dave Razowsky, Tom Booker, Armando DJiaz and Christian Capozzoli. He's been a member of several improv groups, including indie teams Cat Sitters, Chompers, Goodnight Everybody and Jackson Trollop. He also created his own original improv form: The Mitch-o-scene. Jeff is currently working on his web series "Gettin' Real with Principal O'Leary"
Tom is a musician, actor, storyteller, and filmmaker. He's interested in learning pottery. Do you know a good teacher? He finds solace in the gentle murmurs of the accordion. Tom has played with such bands as the Toys and Tiny Instruments and The Nice Fellas. He once lost a friend because he heckled at a dance contest. He's going to sing, dance, and pump the bellows like his hair is on fire.
Food Will Win the War is comprised of: Rob Ward (Lead Vocals and Guitar), Jeffrey Young (Violin and Vocals), Kyra Sims (Vocals, French Horn, and Glockenspiel), Scott Stein (Keyboards, Vocals and Accordion), Matt Epstein (Bass), Josh Bloom (Drums).
Craig has been called this generation's "troubadour piano man" (Jambands.com, Jan 2011), combining the pop sensibilities and greatly skilled musicianship of Billy Joel and Ben Folds, with the lyrical smarts of Randy Newman. His voice brims with soul and personality, coming from his strong native New Yorker identity, and from his experience getting his start while living abroad, performing in the bars and on the streets of Chile and Spain from 2001 to 2003.
David Jay is a lounge singer who first got his start at Grossinger’s Resort, before heading west to the glitzy clubs of Reno. Without any training or ability, his musical stylings have brought joy and tears to his handful of fans.
DAVID E JOHNSTON is an artist who works between performance, motion graphics, & original music. His solo shows have included “Gone Dollywood”, and “The Hustler”, and his videos were selected for festivals in the US & Europe. He appeared in the “Va Va Voom Room” revue, at SF’s New Langton Arts in the musical performance “Velvet”, and in Philip Horvitz’s “Faith”. His latest project is his performative band “Gift of Tongues”, which collaborates with a variety of New York musicians.
Lesley's music is like going on a hike with a bubble gun. Or like a barefoot cabaret show in your living room. One might even say it’s like a Songwriter Circle with Regina Spektor, Flight of the Conchords, and Gillian Welch except different because none of them are there. Instead Lesley is there. A passionate songstress with a powerful voice, she bounces between intimate folk rock and jocular pop songs with the occasional bawdy tango.
Originally from Princeton, NJ, Mary is a Brooklyn-based singer, accordionist, pianist and composer. Most notably, she is the founder and frontwoman of cabaret soul group Toot Sweet, a recent NYC Deli Mag artist of the month. Mary is also a member of Main Squeeze Orchestra, the world's only all-female accordion orchestra, and has starred in Fringe and Frigid NY productions, including the recent world premiere operetta, "Whiskey Pants: The Mayor of Williamsburg" with Mind The Art Entertainment.
Tym Moss is a dynamic performer who has performed on stages around the country. Tym is a Singer, Actor, Radio/TV Host (Artists Exposed w Tym Moss), Songwriter, Producer etc in TV, Radio, Film, Cabaret, Music and Theater. He is performing and producing cabaret nights of the music of Little House On The Ferry on Sun May 24 and June 28, 2015 at West End Lounge at 107th and Broadway. Tym Moss is also an LGBT Activist and Advocate.
"So unique is ReW it's a wonder that she isn't already signed and making millions," Kisho (Pussy Rock entertainment). RoCkSTaRLeTTe & hostess/producer of underground webshow *Rew & WhO?* Sexy, quirky & loaded with chutzpah, her award winning song 'u suck' landed on 'the Bad Girls Club' & even Stacy London couldn't tame this whipper snapper on TLC's 'Love, Lust or Run." ReW sings with little kids by day, and big kids by night. Her light shines bright and she's dedicated to making the world better
Summer and Eve (Nadia Quinn, Emily Tarver, Aaron Quinn, and Rebecca Kaasa) is a folk-pop original-music quartet who regularly performs at UCB, the PIT, Joe's Pub, and other NYC music and comedy venues. They do internet videos and are also available for hire.
Carla Ulbrich is a comical singer-songwriter and guitarist from Clemson, South Carolina and currently living in New Jersey. Insert your own punchline here. Carla has a love of wordplay and a keen observational eye. She is primarily known for her humorous songs about such topics as wedgies, Waffle House, Klingons, and how rich she would be if she had the copyright on the 'F' Word.
MARC ADAM SMITH (SAG-AFTRA) is a native New Yorker and an Actor, Director, Writer, Producer, Stand-up, Improvisor, why if you name a performing type of gig, odds are he has done it, except for Bird Wrangling and there is always tomorrow for that. Marc Adam started out his career as an on-air radio personalty in CT in the late 80's, and it's been all about show business since then.
2014 gIRTEs
Alena has played everything from a social worker to a murdered hooker on the Investigation Discovery TV Network. She has performed comedy at UCB, the PIT, with the Red Tie Mafia and LMAOff Broadway. Alena also performs regularly with Live-In Theater and The Murder Mystery Company. She played the role of Rhododendron in the web series come live musical, Mother Eve's Secret Garden of Sensual Sisterhood and spent almost two years in South Korea, creating theater for an educational theme park.
(Space Probe, NYCIF; The Scary; vIRTEgo Circus, TIF; That Kick Ass Time Jump Show) Evie Aronson earned a BFA in Musical Theatre from Syracuse University. She has appeared in projects for TruTV, HBO Films, Frigid Fest NY, along with numerous stand up and improv comedy appearances. Evie is also a licensed Zumba instructor! www.eviechevy.blogspot or youtube.com/eviearonson
Bill is thrilled to play with this wonderful group of fellow improvisers. Bill began improvising around the time he was born and has been exploring the various expressions and nuances of this form ever since. In New York and L.A. he’s had the joy and privilege to play with many great performers and improvisers from IRTE, Gotham City Improv, Violin Spolin and Gary Austin workshops, and more. He is continually inspired by his fellow performers and is excited to discover what will happen next.
Irene Carroll has been improvising in NYC for a looooongggg time now. She studied at The PIT, The Yes Show Workshops, Improvisation New Conservatory and Artistic New Directions. After preforming with the IN team for 2 years, sh can now be seen with the NEW Gotham City Improv Main Company. Irene also is kickin' around with The Internet Disagrees. AND soon you can see her in Ursa Minor.
Sam is thrilled to reconnect with her performing aspirations after a 3 decade hiatus. She studies acting with John Howard Swain & improvisational theatre with Scotty Watson, Artistic New Directions. She recently performed in showcases directed by Gary Austin, Michael Gellman & David Razowsky. With a diverse background in radio, film, pr and promotion, for 17 years she’s been the writer, editor, and exec. asst to the president of the Detectives’ Endowment Assoc.,the labor union of NYPD Detectives
Brian Michael is one of NYC's rising comedic stars, performing sketch and improv with some of the city's funniest troupes. Unleashing his off-the-wall, energetic humor in shows at UCB East, The P.I.T. & The Broadway Comedy Club. He's currently performing as a member of Gotham City Improv company. This year, the SAG-AFTRA actor & William Esper Studio grad will be appearing opposite Chris Rock, Tracey Morgan, Jay Pharaoh and Michael Che in the feature film Finally Famous (2014).
Jeff has studied improv in Los Angeles, New York and Austin with such great teachers as Dave Razowsky, Tom Booker, Armando Diaz and Christian Capozzoli. He's been a member of several improv groups, including indie teams Cat Sitters, Chompers, Goodnight Everybody and Jackson Trollop. He also created his own original improv form: The Mitch-o-scene. Jeff is currently working on his web series "Gettin' Real with Principal O'Leary"
Mike is honored to be a guest artist for IRTE! For starters, his name is pronounced like the stuff you put on spaghetti. Mike Sause currently improvises with Gotham City Improv and The Internet Disagrees. He also writes and performs live and taped sketch comedy as one half of Two Man Tango. He is a former member of the Improvisation News Team. When he’s not improvising or writing, he also performs stand up and is a skilled impersonator (Christopher Walken is his specialty).
(Space Probe, NYCIF; The Scary, vIRTEgo Circus, TIF; Groovy Gang Adventures; That Kick Ass Time Jump Show, NOCAF) Pat Shay is an Improv Actor/Director/Teacher. He spent a decade in Chicago, mostly at iO, but also doing this or that at the Annoyance and the Second City. Now he's coming in on a decade in New York, mostly at the Peoples Improv Theater. Pat lives in Queens with a very beautiful wife named Mary Theresa Archbold and two awesome babies.
MARC ADAM SMITH (SAG-AFTRA) is a native New Yorker and an Actor, Director, Writer, Producer, Stand-up, Improvisor, why if you name a performing type of gig, odds are he has done it, except for Bird Wrangling and there is always tomorrow for that. Marc Adam started out his career as an on-air radio personalty in CT in the late 80's, and it's been all about show business since then.
The Dreamstalks are a high energy comedic music duo created by Karen Bray and Zach Miko. They are described as your not so typical children's educator musicians singing about things no child should ever hear. Their act consists of original songs and childlike interactions with the audience. See more at www.TheDreamstalks.com or follow on Facebook and Twitter.
Craig has been called this generation's "troubadour piano man" (Jambands.com, Jan 2011), combining the pop sensibilities and greatly skilled musicianship of Billy Joel and Ben Folds, with the lyrical smarts of Randy Newman. His voice brims with soul and personality, coming from his strong native New Yorker identity, and from his experience getting his start while living abroad, performing in the bars and on the streets of Chile and Spain from 2001 to 2003.
DAVID E JOHNSTON is an artist who works between performance, motion graphics, & original music. His solo shows have included “Gone Dollywood”, and “The Hustler”, and his videos were selected for festivals in the US & Europe. He appeared in the “Va Va Voom Room” revue, at SF’s New Langton Arts in the musical performance “Velvet”, and in Philip Horvitz’s “Faith”. His latest project is his performative band “Gift of Tongues”, which collaborates with a variety of New York musicians.
Lesley's music is like going on a hike with a bubble gun. Or like a barefoot cabaret show in your living room. One might even say it’s like a Songwriter Circle with Regina Spektor, Flight of the Conchords, and Gillian Welch except different because none of them are there. Instead Lesley is there. A passionate songstress with a powerful voice, she bounces between intimate folk rock and jocular pop songs with the occasional bawdy tango.
Ben is a professional singer of funny songs.
Pablo started his first project “BluesBoy Trio” by mid 2010. After some time living in London and Colombia (Medellin, Bogota) during which time his first EP was released (The Blues won't leave me) he tours all around Colombia, gaining some national recognition and constant gigs. 2013 began with a new project as a soloist!! With a new DVD in May 2013 (5 song in video) and becoming established in New York City, things look great.
They’re the most famous bands you’ve never heard of! Adam Blotner & Jenny Pinzari spoof the spectrum of pop music with original songs and characters, accompanied by the versatile musical stylings of The Positive Feedback Band. Festivals and venues include NY Intl Fringe Fest, NYC Comedy Week, LA Comedy Fest, The Groundlings Theatre, UCB, iOWest, and The PIT. Their EP was recorded in 2011 at Happy Madison Studios by Grammy-nominated producer/eng. John Potoker (U2, Red Hot Chili Peppers, No Doubt)
Summer and Eve (Nadia Quinn, Emily Tarver, Aaron Quinn, Ameara Wahhab) is a folk-pop original-music quartet who regularly performs at UCB, the PIT, Joe's Pub, and other NYC music and comedy venues. They do internet videos and are also available for hire.
Elijah writes love-drunk odes to Goddesses of flesh & fantasy; loves Bruce Springsteen and Stevie Wonder in equal measure; plays guitar with his eyes closed and sings with his mouth open. His most recent album, Saturn has earned raves from the blogosphere. One fan, an ex-cop, told him: "when I just need to do some thinking, I put on Saturn and cruise around the city." Elijah performs regularly in NYC and nationally. His band's shows are rock'n'soul rave-ups dedicated to love and funky precision.
Carla Ulbrich is a comical singer-songwriter and guitarist from Clemson, South Carolina and currently living in New Jersey. Insert your own punchline here. Carla has a love of wordplay and a keen observational eye. She is primarily known for her humorous songs about such topics as wedgies, Waffle House, Klingons, and how rich she would be if she had the copyright on the 'F' Word.