On Monday 30 October, the New Vic will celebrate Black History Month with a special performance from Birmingham-based improvisational theatre company, Jumprov.
The UK’s First Ethnically Diverse Improvisational Theatre Company, Jumprov’s six-person group create live comedy sketches, short scenes and songs on the spot using audience suggestions. For this special performance, the group will also take inspiration from this year’s Black History Month theme, ‘Saluting Our Sisters’. Audiences can expect lots of laughter akin to shows like Mock The Week and Whose Line Is It Anyway? but with a signature Midlands twist!
There will be a special appearance from Keele Gospel Choir, finalists in the BBC Songs of Praise Gospel Choir of the Year 2018, on the evening.
Before the show, audience members can tuck into delicious food from Tunstall’s Brickhouse, providers of homemade Caribbean and South American cuisine, served from 5.30pm.
Alongside this, the group is running a free comedy workshop, exclusively open to Black People, Brown People and People of Colour, that will take place at the theatre prior to the evening’s performance, offering participants the chance to have a go at creating their own improvised comedy.
Director of Kwanzaa Collective Gabriella Gay, who has helped curate the evening, said: “’We can’t wait to welcome audiences to the New Vic Theatre for this unforgettable celebration that centres Black and Brown voices. Expect food, music and the side-splitting comedy of Jumprov who do improv with a little extra spice. I’ve produced such a range of vibrant and joyous Black History Celebrations in Staffordshire this year, but I can’t think of a better way to end Black History Month 2023 than bringing a diverse audience together to experience comedy in-the-round.”
Jumprov’s Sunny Dhap added: “We’re excited to bring our improv comedy show to the New Vic Theatre, and even more excited and honoured to be celebrating Black History Month with Kwanzaa Collective. We have a hilarious night planned with comedy, local acts and amazing food too.”
Tickets to the Jumprov Jam! on Monday 30 October are priced at £8.50 if booked in advance, or £10.00 on the door, and include entry to the show and a choice of food provided by Tunstall’s Brickhouse. For more details and to book, call the Box Office on 01782 717962 or visit newvictheatre.org.uk.
Age guidance: 16+ due to adult themes and language.