Our current press release:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:           Mauro Hantman
                            mauro(at)providenceimprovfest(dot)com
                            (401) 437-2907

FIFTH ANNUAL PROVIDENCE IMPROV FEST!

The Annual PROVIDENCE IMPROV FEST has turned five years old and is running June 25 through June 29, with performances and improv workshops in downtown Providence at Trinity Repertory Company, Perishable Theatre and AS220.

Since its humble beginnings in 2004, the PIF has grown in stature and national reputation, with the number and quality of participating groups consistently increasing. This year’s line-up of improvisational acts, which once again represents an international artistic base, continues this trend.

“We are always looking to showcase the different permutations of the improvisational craft,” says Mauro Hantman, Artistic Director of the FEST, “whether it involves the use of different performance elements such as music, movement, or theatrical styles, or it’s exploring the use of media such as film. The groups this year are very exciting and push the boundaries of the form.” Returning this summer are FEST favorites, the NY Neo-Futurists, who do 30 plays in 60 minutes under the direction of the audience, as well as Code Duello, a two-man group that re-enacts the historical duel between Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton. Also returning are Neutrino Boston, who create live, improvised movies, and from England, the Oxford Imps, who do musical improv.

New this year is Parallelogramophonograph, an Austin, TX troupe who perform a French Farce-style longform show. Also making their FEST debut are a number of other groups, including Sid Viscous, who perform an inline skating show called “Sid on Ice,” Vlad Tenenbaum, a one-man pantomime-based improv show from Portsmouth, RI, and groups from Miami, FL and Salt Lake City, UT.

The familiar format of the FEST remains unchanged, starting off with the “Local Improv Blowout,” which highlights local performers. For those who might wish to become part of the burgeoning scene, the FEST is once again offering both professional workshops as well as free public workshops.

A PIF Fundraiser, which will feature entertainment of all stripes, is planned for Monday, June 2, 2008 at Tazza Caffe on Westminster Street. “The Fundraiser is really a birthday party to celebrate the FEST turning Five Years Old.” says Hantman. “I mean, now we can ride a tricycle, count to 10 and tie our own shoes. Pretty accomplished for a group of improvisers, so why not show it off?”

Details about the FEST and the PIF Fundraiser will be featured on the PROVIDENCE IMPROV FEST website at www.providenceimprovfest.com. For a list of performers, go to www.providenceimprovfest.com/Performers. For more information about these events, email questions to info(at)providenceimprovfest(dot)com.