Imagine personal pet stories used as comedy fuel for improvised scenes performed by top-notch actors. That’s the concept behind Zenprov Comedy’s “Pet-Prov Show” at 7:30 p.m. on April 26 at Mary D. Fisher Theatre in Sedona, AZ. Tickets are $16 pre-sale and $18 at the door. This is a one-night-only event, never to be repeated.
Joining Zenprov Comedy will be local veterinarian Dr. Richard Brady of the Tumble Weed Animal Hospital. Dr. Brady will tell some of his favorite stories from his over 35 years as a vet working with great and small creatures. Then Zenprov will take inspiration from those stories to create all new comedic scenes.
“Pet-Prov is an experiment that no improv troupe has attempted before. We’re partnering with Dr. Brady, who will share his favorite animal recollections,” said Derek Dujardin, the director of Zenprov Comedy. “As a group, we will use his stories to springboard into new directions, scenes and storylines. It might be a continuation of the original story or creative re-casting it as a misbehaving co-worker who needs neutering or an alien overlord who is tired of his whiny pet humans.”
The troupe will also create a series of short-form games, including “Inappropriate Emotional Support Animals,” “Animal-To-Human Transformations,” a soap opera-style game called “General Hospital Vet Clinic,” and many more.
“Zenprov is the funniest improv troupe in Northern Arizona. People were laughing so hard their cheeks were hurting,” said Patrick Schweiss, Executive Director of the Sedona International Film Festival. Now in its 17th year, Zenprov Comedy revels in the rich source material that comes from living in Sedona, a place steeped in spiritual seeking, UFOs, vortexes, self-help gurus, radical vegans and confused tourists lost in roundabouts.
Jessica Mitolo, an Associate Artistic Director at famed Second City in Chicago, coaches Zenprov Comedy. “I work with improv troupes worldwide, and Zenprov is one of my favorites,” said Mitlolo. “Since 2020, I've enjoyed coaching them through a creative renaissance. They are an ensemble that inhabits that sweet spot of being silly and insightful. A treat not to be missed.”
The super minds of Zenprov Comedy are Derek Dujardin, Shaeri Richards, Shaunn Cochran, Chris Redish, Betty Testa, Dr. Linda Roemer, Nathaniel Montgomery, and Mary Carder.
Zenprov wants attendees to know that their shows are rated PG-13 and are seldom politically, morally or scientifically correct. Imaginary people may die or may say things that make them wish they were dead.
Doors open at 7:00 p.m. Ticket are $16 advance, $18 at the door.