Today we’d like to introduce you to Betsy Abraham – Improv Charlotte.
Hi Betsy Abraham -, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I went to my first improv show
when I was in my early 20s and living in New York. Watching a bunch of people make up jokes, characters, and storylines on the spot seemed like magic to me. I was watching grown adults have the time of their lives playing pretend on stage – and I wanted a piece of it! But the thought of doing something like that was incredibly intimidating to me – public speaking was NOT my thing. I was content to just watch (and laugh) from the audience.
Fast forward to a few years later when I moved to Charlotte, NC. The city has a lot of great comedy theaters and I decided to take an improv class. From the first class, I was hooked. It was not at all what I was expecting; rather it was all about supporting your teammates, active listening, and discovery. One class session turned into three and after I finished training, I was put on an improv team where I got my first taste of what it was like to perform on stage for an audience.
Later, I joined Improv Charlotte, a family-friendly improv team that puts on shows to support a local nonprofit each month. I’ve been a part of Improv Charlotte for about three years now, and I absolutely love performing with this group of hilarious, kind, creative comedians.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Our group has definitely faced some challenges over the last 20 years, including transitioning to online shows during the pandemic. We also live in a city where there is a LOT going on (which is amazing and we wouldn’t want it any other way!) so we always need to be creative in how we’re reaching new audiences to let them know about our monthly shows.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Improv Charlotte has been serving the local community for 20 years. Each month, we host a show benefitting a local nonprofit. All our shows are family-friendly, which means anyone can come – your kids, grandma, boss, dentist, whoever! When people walk into our shows, they enter a joy-filled, welcoming environment. Our hope is that everyone leaves feeling happier, and more hopeful.
Performing with Improv Charlotte is so personally fulfilling and checks so many boxes. I get to play pretend with some of the funniest people I know, unleash the silliest version of myself, AND do it all for a good cause.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Improv is for EVERYONE! Whether you want to perform on a team, work on public speaking, or just learn skills that could benefit your personal life, I would recommend everyone try improv at least once. It’s a great way to get out of your head and tap into your inner kid.
You do not have to be the funniest person in the room – just be prepared to listen, support your team members, and contribute your unique perspective and ideas.
Pricing:
- $10
Contact Info:
- Website: https://improvcharlotte.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/improvcharlotte
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImprovCharlotte/
