Oddity Improv opens in Franklin with live shows and free comedy workshops
FRANKLIN, Tenn. (WSMV) - On Monday nights at the Mockingbird Theater, laughter is what you’ll hear spilling down the halls of the Factory in Franklin.
The raucous sounds are coming from Oddity Improv, a nonprofit theater organization, co-founded by Chris Guerra and Kelsey Cooke, former members of the famed Groundlings in Los Angeles and Chicago’s Second City.
“We say smart comedy is what we go for,” said Guerra. “We have a passion for comedy, we think comedy’s the most important thing that people need. Not just now, but forever in this world. And we missed it. We missed the performing. We missed bringing joy.”
Before their weekly live show, the seasoned actors and filmmakers teach a free improv workshop that’s open to the public.
“With the growing film community here in the Nashville area, we know that improv acting is the foundation for all acting skills and talent,” said Kelsey Cooke. “And we want to bring the bar up for talent in the southeast region of the U.S.”
“We want to train the talent here, so we can work where we live,” added Guerra.
Holly Brewer of Nashville tried it for the first time.
“I thought trying improv would make me more spontaneous,” said Brewer. “Opening up and trying something new was fun - at my age!”
Some regulars have been coming for a couple of years.
“As an actor, it works really good muscles, sort of like going to the gym,” said cast member Rachel Brun.
“I don’t have to learn any lines for this kind of acting,” said Janelle Sonnenburg.
Whatever the motivation, Cooke and Guerra say improv is for everyone, adding joy to a world that can always use a laugh.
“Improv is a great tool for helping you with public speaking skills, speaking skills, and social skills,” Guerra said.
“It seems there’s a huge hunger for it,” said Brun. “People just keep coming.”
“If we can give them an hour of laughter or joy, after a hard day at work, we’ve done our parts,” said cast mate Tom Stuart.
The free workshops are offered Mondays from 5-6 p.m., followed by the live comedy show at 7:30 p.m.
Tickets are $18.
Click for information on corporate events, team building, and Oddity Improv’s in-depth Core Program, which requires an invitation.
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