Melissa Leonelli
Staff Writer
Society often promotes a stereotype of typical “theater kids.” The image is frequently of a purposely segregated, overdramatic, deeply analytical clique that dresses entirely in black and sips on lattes in oversized mugs. Pepperdine’s “theater kids,” however, go well beyond these stereotypical images. A vivid example of this is Pepperdine’s own resident improvisation troupe.
The Pepperdine Improv Troup, or PIT, is well known on campus for its monthly performances in the HAWC. While many students attended the show, few know the basis of the group and the work to create these performances.
PIT is a group of 12 to 16 students, selected by audition, who get together once a week for a fully instructed class in improvisation.
Improvisation is an unscripted acting form, where key words and subjects are given to the actors, and various skits, scenes and songs are created on the spot.
Group rehearsals typically begin with everyone gathering in a circle and practicing nonverbal exercises. These exercises are played with the intention of strengthening the group’s communicational signals without directly referring to one another — a vital key to improvisation.
The rest of the rehearsal consists of other improvisational acting games. The games begin simply and then progress to actual performance games that resemble what the group would perform in a real show. Each scene is performed and then fully critiqued by the club’s director.
Renowned writer, actress and performer Tracy Burns Simpson leads PIT. Simpson has traveled worldwide as a stand-up performer and sketch comedian and continues to work in improvisation and with Improv Theater L.A. She helped form PIT six years ago and said she has watched in awe as the talent and dedication of these students cause the group to constantly grow in its success.
Members of PIT said they consider participation a critical aspect of learning in any part of life.
Because improvisation is not yet practiced in ordinary Pepperdine theater curriculum, students who are not involved in PIT do not receive the opportunity to develop this skill within their major. But improvisation can serve as fundamental training for actors as well as students in other majors as well.
Speaking quickly and comfortably is a skill useful in any profession.
“It’s not just about being funny,” said senior PIT member Adam McArthur. “It’s about being comfortable in yourself.”
PIT performer Anaka Shockley, a senior, expressed a similar opinion.
“It teaches basic rules of life such as not denying someone, and making others feel good about themselves,” she said.
She said improvisation relates to individuals who are discovering their own energy and confidence and learning to apply it in other aspects of life.
After six years of progress, PIT continues to grow and perform for the University. The group soon hopes to develop performance venues for off-campus audiences.
PIT’s next scheduled improv performance is April 8 at 8 p.m. in Elkins Auditorium. The show is free for all Pepperdine students.
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