Audiences will have the opportunity to help create theater on the spot by feeding suggestions to performers about characters and situations, at the third-annual Seattle Festival of Improv Theater (SFIT), presented by Wing-It Productions and KUOW.
"It's alive theater. No one knows what's going to happen," producer Andrew McMasters said "It's not about comedy, but it does end up being hilarious, always."
The festival, expanded this year, will feature 20 different groups in 10 different shows at two venues. Last year, 15 improv troupes performed at SFIT, and more than 1,200 audience members attended.
Performances will again take place at the University Theater, 5510 University Way N.E., starting today and running through Sunday, Feb. 20. The second venue, new to SFIT this year, is the Market Theater, at 1428 Post Alley at the Pike Place Market. Performances are at 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. at both locations.
A ratings meter will be posted at the box office to let audiences know what ages a particular show is most appropriate for.
"I want people to realize there are going to be great shows the entire week," McMasters said.
The festival will feature performances by improvisational theater groups from around the country, as well as a series of workshops on improv techniques. Workshops last year sold out.
Classes this year range from how to produce your own theater to how to work on your own improv format. There will also be two discussion forums at the festival this year about the state of improv in America and how to produce your own work.
Some of the groups performing this year include The Neutrino Project from New York City; Bassprov, Chairs and Pimprov, all from Chicago; The Josh and Tamra Show from New York City; and Election Show 2004 from Seattle.
"The festival has nationally become known as one of the festivals to hit," McMasters said. "As a result, we have been able to get the best teachers and groups to come to the festival."
McMasters added that he has already received reservations for the festival from audience members as far away as England.
"I love the networking," McMas-ters said. "I love seeing all of the people."
SFIT is committed to raising the national profile of Seattle-based comedians and to helping build a community of comedy in Western Washington through sponsoring classes, shows and other events throughout the year.
The festival earns most of its funding from ticket sales and classes.
"The best part of the festival for me is that it is a party from start to finish with your best friends who you only get to see once a year," McMasters said. "It's gonna be great. It's gonna be a lot of fun."
Tickets for all shows are $10, with festival passes available for $25. Classes are $25 to $35.
For complete scheduling information and to purchase tickets, visit www.seattleimprov.com or 781-4230.
Contributing writer Jessica Davis can be reached via needitor@nwlink.com.
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