Improv. The very word can evoke an immediate response of laughter, or horror. So what a perfect combination it would make to combine Improv with horror? “Slasher” The Improvised Horror Show playing Fridays at 11:30 at the Gorilla Tango Theater combines improve with the classic formula of a horror flick. But like any good B-rated horror film “Slasher” was one long run-on, lacking any real plot or character development, and aiming for a quick laugh (or scare) rather than building momentum.
The concept behind “Slasher” is intriguing; the cast surveys the audience to choose the general plot and storyline of the horror film, basics such as location, sin the townsfolk are committing, the killers’ deep-seeded troubles that motive him to kill, and of course the way the killer murders his victims. They even ask a random cast member about themselves and transplant their life story into the main character. That lucky cast member actually happened to be me and I was turned into the main character, which made it rather funny for me to watch.
But seeing myself turned into a stereotypical softball player was not enough to hold my attention. Thirty minutes into the improve-horror flick show and I was waiting for a dancing hotdog to break out into “let’s all go to the lobby” to take a quick break (or look for a quick getaway). It wasn’t the concept that failed the show, it was the continuity.
One of the big let-downs in the show was the lack of cohesion amongst the actors. “Slasher’s” cast was made up of a unique ensemble that, individually, was quite funny, delivering witty one-liners and zingers. But the cast often tried to talk over each other and some were visibly upset when they were not able to deliver a line. That’s one of the key factors that separate good Improv from amateur Improv, that and the brilliance of perfect comedic timing and a sense of humor.
“Slasher” had some funny moments and even evoked a chuckle once or twice, and any fan of horror films will enjoy the spoof on the traditional horror formula.
Gorilla Tango Theater is located at 1919 N. Milwaukee Avenue. For more information on the many shows offered visit: www.gorillatango.com.
