Improv group delivers show for CCP fundraiser

Submitted 
From left, Ellie Bonilla, Dianna Jensen, Josie Rugen and Krescenz Hundley of Off the Cuff Improv Group of Mid Missouri perform at Talking Horse Productions in Columbia.
Submitted From left, Ellie Bonilla, Dianna Jensen, Josie Rugen and Krescenz Hundley of Off the Cuff Improv Group of Mid Missouri perform at Talking Horse Productions in Columbia.

After a successful fundraiser featuring Off the Cuff Improv Group last fall, Capital City Productions is bringing them back for two shows this weekend.

In true theatrical style, the fundraising events will showcase the talents of Off the Cuff Improv Group of Mid-Missouri, a popular improvisation comedy group that has hosted their own shows and packed the house at many local fundraisers including Scene One Theatre last summer.

Even though many of their shows can have themes, the basis of Off the Cuff Improv Group of Mid-Missouri's performances involve about 10 to 12 performers and are done in the style of "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" Now hosted by Aisha Tyler and airing on the CW Network, "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" throws regular comedians such as Wayne Brady, Ryan Stiles and Colin Mochrie, along with special guest comedians and celebrities, into fun games and skits where they have to think and act on their feet.

After doors open at 6 p.m. at each show on Friday and Saturday at Capital City Productions, guests will enjoy a dinner buffet prepared by Argyle Catering starting at 6:30 p.m. Coffee, tea and lemonade are served, but guests of age are welcome to bring their own drinks. After dinner, Off the Cuff will begin the evening of hilarity at 7:30 p.m.

Proceeds from this event will benefit the Capital City Productions building, which is Shikles Auditorium at 1200 Linden Drive.

During the last 11 years, Capital City Productions has worked with Jefferson City Parks and Recreation to maintain, repair and make improvements to the building with the approval of that lease holder, the CCP has paid for installing lighting in the stairway from the backstage down to the Mezzanine level, installed and painted drywall for lobby area, caulked and sealed windows to prevent further damage from birds and bats, removed old and installed new insulation, installed a balcony in the back of the theatre, added outlets to the outside of the building, installed hardwood floors and carpeting on the main level and most recently upgraded all electrical and installed additional outlets as a result of a fire marshal inspection, among other upgrades last year, Nate Grey, president of Capital City Productions, said last fall.

There will be many opportunities for those interested in supporting the nonprofit organization's volunteer dinner theater during its many upcoming shows. 

In 2019, Capital City Productions will present "Million Dollar Quartet" in February, "Jesus Christ Superstar" in April, "Mamma Mia!" in June, "Cinderella" in August, "The Addams Family" in October and "Plaid Tidings" in December. They also have announced securing the Missouri premiere of "The Bodyguard, The Musical" in February 2020, Grey said, noting 2019 season tickets are now available.

Auditions for "Jesus Christ Superstar" will also be held this weekend, with times available at noon, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday at Shikles Auditorium. An audition form and additional information on this event is available the Capital City Productions' website.

Tickets are $38 per person. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 573-681-9612 or visit ccpjc.org. For more information about Off the Cuff Improv Group of Mid-Missouri and where they will be performing you can visit their Facebook page at facebook.com/OffTheCuffImprovOfMidMo.