Topics

More

Penn State Faculty To Perform At State Theatre As Happy Valley Improv

Just a year ago, Andrea McCloskey, an associate professor in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction here at Penn State, attended a three-day theater improv summer camp. When she returned home to State College, her experience inspired her to find a similar improv group locally. But none existed.

Instead, McCloskey found Penn State economics lecturer James Tierney, Penn State Altoona assistant professor of education Sam Tanner, and an open space in the basement of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church.

The trio began holding improv practices there in the fall of 2016, and soon after welcomed Nathan Rufo from Penn State’s Office of Global Programs to complete their troupe. Happy Valley Improv was born from their combined 30 years of improv experience.

“It is much more concerned with relationships and making connections between scenes, as opposed to ‘who can make the dirtiest joke quickest?'” Rufo explained. Rest assured, though — “There are plenty of dirty jokes to go around.”

Happy Valley Improv follows in the longform improv footsteps of Will Ferrell, Melissa McCarthy, Amy Poehler, Jordan Peele, and Stephen Colbert, so there’s a chance you may one day realize that the new host of the Late Show was your introductory macroeconomics lecturer.

The group is “dedicated to building a community here, above everything else,” Tanner said. “We want to create what we’ve been a part of in other parts of the country.”

Happy Valley Improv will officially kick off with four performances this fall as they graduate from the church basement to The Attic of the State Theatre. Performances will be held at 8 p.m. September 28, October 19, November 9, and November 30. You can purchase your tickets in advance on the State Theatre website for $9 (adults) or $6.50 (students).

Your ad blocker is on.

Please choose an option below.

Sign up for our e-mail newsletter:
OR
Support quality journalism:
Purchase a Subscription!

About the Author

Anthony Fiset

Anthony is a senior *gasp* majoring in Economics and a lifetime Costco Executive Member. If you are an employer, please hire him. Otherwise, direct all complaints to anthonyfiset@onwardstate.com.

Penn State Hoops Remaining Positive Despite Postseason Uncertainty

An eight-game losing streak threatens postseason hopes for the Nittany Lions as the season comes to an end.

Your THON 2025 Prep Checklist

Whether you’re dancing, volunteering, or supporting your friends from the stands, this weekend will test your stamina and commitment to a great cause.

Deaf Professor Alleges Disability Discrimination In Lawsuit Against Penn State

Joseph Valente, says the university violated the Americans with Disabilities Act and Rehabilitation Act as a cost-cutting measure.

113kFollowers
164kFollowers
63.7kFollowers
4,570Subscribers
Sign up for our Newsletter

Other posts by Anthony

Golden Arches: Anthony Fiset’s Senior Column

Senior Anthony Fiset reflects on his most memorable experience from college — a debacle at McDonald’s his freshman year.

Class Of 2020 To Hold Virtual Mifflin Streak

THON 2020 Prop Bets