Sunday, December 27, 2009

9:32 PM - Mesa theatre offers improv workshop to help job skills
More and more are signing up for the comedy workshops. SOUNDOFF: Would you get involved? Do you think they'd help? - (Digg)

Thursday, November 05, 2009

Improv Comedy Journal

9:44 PM - mypalal: RT @mmmMcFarland: The serious face of a professional improv theater's wedsnesday rehearsal. http://yfrog.com/0bbumrtj - (Twitter)

Friday, October 30, 2009

Improv Comedy Journal

8:43 PM - mypalal: RT @NCTSanDiego: I saw our reservation count, some of our shows will sell out early. Get tickets in advance at nationalcomedy.com - (Twitter)

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Improv Comedy Journal

7:16 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Improv Comedy Journal

7:32 AM - mypalal: What's the most consistently funny form of comedy? Improv! Improv! Improv! - Family Guy - (Twitter)

Sunday, October 11, 2009

Improv Comedy Journal

11:20 AM - mypalal: We're heading down to San Diego for the National Comedy Theater's 10th anniversary festivities. - (Twitter)

Saturday, October 10, 2009

Improv Comedy Journal

10:56 PM - mypalal: National Comedy Theatre on #Yelp: NCT offers a great improvisational comedy show for anyone...children or adult. It'... http://bit.ly/VpxCm - (Twitter)

11:56 PM - National Comedy Theatre (5/5) on Yelp

NCT offers a great improvisational comedy show for anyone...children or adult. It's a smart and clever show with laughs throughout. It's reasonably priced and the theater has plenty of parking. If… (Yelp)

Sunday, October 04, 2009

Improv Tweets for 10/3/09

Improv Comedy Journal

6:44 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

7:34 PM - mypalal: We are ready to go. It's Dave, Zach and Myself performing a little improv against Jamie, Joe and Casey. - (Twitter)

7:37 PM - mypalal: The audience is getting antsy. They are applauding even though we're not ready to start. improv. I feel like a rock star. - (Twitter)

7:38 PM - mypalal: @NCTSanDiego Why have you not started the show yet? improv - (Twitter)

7:44 PM - mypalal: The first show has started. Dave and I are going to phone this one in. Let's do it! improv - (Twitter)

9:53 PM - mypalal: The second improv show has begun. - (Twitter)

Saturday, October 03, 2009

Improv Tweets for 10/2/09

Improv Comedy Journal

4:19 PM - mypalal: This weekend: Sleep, eat, improv, pumpkin carving, work. - (Twitter)

Sunday, September 27, 2009

Improv Tweets for 9/26/09

Improv Comedy Journal

5:43 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

5:44 PM - mypalal: In san Diego for two improv shows. Come see me! - (Twitter)

Saturday, September 26, 2009

Improv Tweets for 9/25/09

Improv Comedy Journal

9:11 PM - mypalal: It's been a few weeks, but I'll be performing imporv this Saturday at the National Comedy Theater in San Diego at 7:30 and 9:45. www.nat ... - (Twitter)

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Improv Tweets for 9/23/09

Improv Comedy Journal

10:30 PM - mypalal: Watching a Magic and Comedy show on the cruise. It's more interesting than last night's X-treme Country. (t) - (Twitter)

Monday, September 21, 2009

Improv Tweets for 9/20/09

Improv Comedy Journal

5:44 AM -

via imgur.com

Not that hungry. improv

- (Tumblr)

5:53 PM - mypalal: RT @TVGuide: Kristin Chenoweth wins comedy supp. actress. RIP Pushing Daisies #tvgEmmys #emmys09 She had the best glasses too! - (Twitter)

5:59 PM - mypalal: RT @TVGuide: Alec Baldwin repeats in comedy actor; Jon Cryer upsets NPH in supp. comedy actor; Toni Collette wins comedy actress - (Twitter)

Saturday, September 19, 2009

Improv Tweets for 9/18/09

Improv Comedy Journal

8:28 AM - mypalal: Just found out my little improv group came in second as best comedy to the Platt Brothers. - (Twitter)

Friday, September 18, 2009

Improv Tweets for 9/17/09

Improv Comedy Journal

1:53 PM - mypalal: found out that a really bad improv group is performing at the Brea Improv. Save your money. - (Twitter)

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Improv Tweets for 9/14/09

Improv Comedy Journal

4:53 PM - National Comedy Theatre celebrates 10 year anniversary*: My Little improv show is turning 10. - (Tumblr)

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Improv Tweets for 9/9/09

Improv Comedy Journal

8:37 AM - mypalal: RT @nbc: New comedy correspondents for The Jay Leno Show announced! Check them out: http://tiny.cc/j6GTV - (Twitter)

Saturday, September 05, 2009

Improv Tweets for 9/4/09

Improv Comedy Journal

6:39 AM - mypalal: Getting an early start on the morning. Heading out to San Diego for the 7:30 improv show tonight. http://ow.ly/o3q3 - (Twitter)

12:51 PM - mypalal: heading to San Diego this afternoon for my little improv show. Traffic looks good now. I wish I was heading down there now. - (Twitter)

Friday, September 04, 2009

Improv Tweets for 9/3/09

Improv Comedy Journal

11:07 AM - mypalal: had an opportunity to work with my church doing some improv comedy. Just not sure that's going to work out. I'm too much of a control freak. - (Twitter)

Thursday, September 03, 2009

Improv Tweets for 9/2/09

Improv Comedy Journal

7:02 PM - mypalal: At my Church to watch the High School students perform improv comedy. Should be fun...I hope - (Twitter)

Wednesday, September 02, 2009

Improv Tweets for 9/1/09

Improv Comedy Journal

9:01 AM -

Audience Volunteers from Aug 29th « Here I am performing Improv with some audience volunteers. Sadly, I was not in the scene. - (Tumblr)

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Improv Tweets for 8/29/09

Improv Comedy Journal

1:58 PM - mypalal: At chili's to take improv with my church's high school intern. Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry - (Twitter)

3:53 PM - mypalal: Just about ready to head to San Diego for improv shows. Great way to beat the heat tonight - (Twitter)

3:55 PM - mypalal: All packed and ready to go to San Diego. We have three improv shows tonight. I'll be in the 7:30 and 9:45 show. http://ping.fm/ZBUAF - (Twitter)

4:03 PM - mypalal: Its hot like Hades in the OC. Hoping its cooler in San Diego. Improv - (Twitter)

6:27 PM - mypalal: Waited forever at Saffron for dinner. Improv http://myloc.me/txrE - (Twitter)

7:17 PM - mypalal: Mike thinks I tweet too much. Jerk http://myloc.me/tyGc - (Twitter)

9:31 PM - mypalal: Just finished the first show. We won of that means anything. http://myloc.me/tCw2 - (Twitter)

9:33 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

9:38 PM - MyPalAl posted a photo @ National Comedy Theatre

NCT backstage between shows - (Brightkite)

9:40 PM - MyPalAl posted a photo @ National Comedy Theatre

More backstage photos - (Brightkite)

9:52 PM - mypalal: Starting 2nd show just a little late and I don't know why. Improv http://myloc.me/tD8p - (Twitter)

9:56 PM - mypalal: Second improv show is on the way. We need to end quickly before midnight show crowd shows up. http://myloc.me/tDgz - (Twitter)

9:59 PM - MyPalAl posted a text message @ National Comedy Theatre
We're about half full for second show. Not bad for a 3 show night. - (Brightkite)

11:31 PM - mypalal: I'm done with show and I'm heading home. Pray that I stay awake. I'm exhausted and sweaty. http://myloc.me/tG3r - (Twitter)

Saturday, August 29, 2009

Improv Tweets for 8/28/09

Improv Comedy Journal

7:20 AM - mypalal: Big weekend. Performing this Saturday at #NCT in San Diego. 7:30 and 9:45. www.nationalcomedy.com. - (Twitter)

5:06 PM - mypalal: I'm so done. Have a great weekend everyone. See me in San Diego tomorrow at 7:30 and 9:45 http://nationalcomedy.com - (Twitter)

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Improv Tweets for 8/26/09

Improv Comedy Journal

6:36 PM - mypalal: We'll be here tonight! RT @BreaImprov Operation Laugh with Dan Smith tonight! Don't miss it :] - (Twitter)

7:50 PM - mypalal: Hard to find parking at the Improv. http://myloc.me/rOYl - (Twitter)

7:57 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ Improv Brea
MyPalAl checked in @ Improv Brea - (Brightkite)

12:11 AM - mypalal: back from a night at the Improv. Funny stuff from 3 of the 4 comedians. - (Twitter)

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Improv Tweets for 8/25/09

Improv Comedy Journal

11:18 PM - mypalal: FB RT: Joan Marie Hurwit is still accepting resumes for NCT House/Voice positions: joanmariehurwit@gmail.com. Improv - (Twitter)

Sunday, August 23, 2009

Improv Tweets for 8/22/09

Improv Comedy Journal

8:55 AM - mypalal: RT @kimberly5383: saw jamie kennedy at the improv last night, his girlfriend was there. she has a lit bit to do in his show. show was lame! - (Twitter)

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Improv Tweets for 8/19/09

Improv Comedy Journal

6:47 PM - mypalal: Heading down to the theater for Improv Boot Camp. http://tinyurl.com/ksn7mf - (Twitter)

7:04 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ San Clemente
MyPalAl checked in @ San Clemente - (Brightkite)

7:19 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ Oceanside
MyPalAl checked in @ Oceanside - (Brightkite)

7:22 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ Carlsbad
MyPalAl checked in @ Carlsbad - (Brightkite)

8:21 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

8:23 PM - mypalal: Watching new player boot camp. http://myloc.me/o0FK - (Twitter)

11:15 PM - mypalal: just got back from a night with our new improv players. Good bunch. We taught them 5 things. - (Twitter)

11:24 PM - mypalal: It's tempting to tell new improv performers what to do. Just remember that even though you would do it that way, they can find their own way - (Twitter)

11:27 PM - mypalal: The main goal is just to get them comfortable performing improv in front of veteran players and boost their confidence. - (Twitter)

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Tips to New Improv Performers

My improv troupe just added 8 members to our ranks. I love performing and a do enjoy performing with new players. A lot of people don’t for many reasons. You have a groove and you’re comfortable with your performance. Then it gets screwed up when you teamed up with someone who just doesn’t know how you perform and they don’t have the experience.

I want to share a few tips over the next few blogs about how to get comfortable performing improv for the first time in front of an audience.

Here are some words that I would use to describe a new performer:

Eager
Excited
Scared
Inexperienced
Low Confidence

Tip #1 – Don’t feel the need to come on stage

Here’s the situation. You’re a new player and scene has started. You stand backstage looking for your moment to enter the scene. ADVICE: Don’t enter the stage. Stand there and listen to what is going on and wait. Realize that those who are on stage are setting up the action for the next scene. Listen and understand who you need to be in the next scene. Soon they will walk off stage for the next scene or you’ll have the opportunity to wipe to the next scene.

I’ve been there many times, I’m a fresh player and I’m standing in the back pressuring myself to insert myself somehow. In your mind, you’re saying to yourself, “I have to get on stage. I have to get on stage.” NO YOU DON”T. Remember the actors currently on stage are setting you up for the next scene. The problem is when you insert yourself you interrupt your set up. You prevent the other two actors to set you up properly.

Also, early in an improv career, scene with three people on stage are death. It’s not that it can’t work, but now you have three people fighting to get their lines out. It gets worse if there are four people.

Here’s what I tell every new person who I perform with. Until you become a little more seasoned, no more than 2 people on stage at one time. Trust that we are going to give you an opportunity to be in the game, but in the next scene. Better yet, I will sometime make the new player start the scene with me.

Tip #2 – Never perform counter scenes or teach me scenes

I’m going to use the word “never” here because we’re talking new performers. I’ve seen and done counter scenes and teach me scene but only with experience.

By counter scene, I’m talking about scene where one person is selling something to another. By teaching scene, I’m talking about scene where you teach me how to do something, such as dance or do karate.

The problem is counter or selling scenes is that you have two strangers coming together and having to describe a product or service in the wackiest way and the pay off is whether they buy it or not. Teach me scenes are dependent on how wacky you can make your dance or karate scene. These scenes will put your audience to sleep faster than a Lifetime movie.

Instead, let us remember of one of the key tenants of improv is relationships. Your scene should not be about selling a product, teaching the latest dance move or washing a car. Your scene is about the relationship between the two characters on stage. We have a little exercise where the two characters on stage have a conversation about some conflict, while doing something like washing a car. The rule is that during this conversation, no one can talk about washing the car.

Walking and chewing gum is more like it.

Saturday, August 15, 2009

Improv Tweets for 8/14/09

Improv Comedy Journal

9:01 AM - Disney parking lot set for third theme park site
The strawberry field is now going to be a temporary parking lot. If the economy improves in 6 years then there is the possibility of another themepark. - (Delicous)

4:42 PM - mypalal: Just won a VIP Party for 12 at the Brea Improv. Who's in? - (Twitter)

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Improv Tweets for 8/12/09

Improv Comedy Journal

11:41 AM - mypalal: RT @NCTSanDiego: Tonight's the night! If you want to perform improv with San Diego's Longest Running Show, then auditions are yours tonight - (Twitter)

Sunday, August 09, 2009

Improv Tweets for 8/8/09

Improv Comedy Journal

6:00 PM - mypalal: Heading out to the Phoenix National Comedy Theatre to perform some improv comedy. - (Twitter)

6:33 PM - mypalal: Making call time. Shows at 730 and 945. Improv comedy http://myloc.me/iTdi - (Twitter)

6:34 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

6:40 PM - MyPalAl posted a photo @ National Comedy Theatre

Time for some improv - (Brightkite)

8:44 PM - mypalal: galtime first show getting Poe butt kicked. improv - (Twitter)

9:47 PM - mypalal: gonna do special show for 11 people. improv - (Twitter)

11:10 PM - mypalal: done for the night. good shows. improv - (Twitter)

Saturday, August 08, 2009

Improv Tweets for 8/7/09

Improv Comedy Journal

7:26 AM - mypalal: Nationals Comedy Theatre - (Twitter)

9:46 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

9:47 PM - mypalal: Is at the second show of the National Comedy Theatre in Phoenix - (Twitter)

Sunday, August 02, 2009

Improv Tweets for 8/1/09

Improv Comedy Journal

4:17 PM - mypalal: getting ready to head down to San Diego. Great night for a comedy show. http://ping.fm/RjE9D - (Twitter)

4:38 PM - mypalal: In the car and heading to san diego or some company. http://tinyurl.com/nz3zsr - (Twitter)

5:44 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ San Clemente
MyPalAl checked in @ San Clemente - (Brightkite)

5:45 PM - MyPalAl posted a text message @ San Clemente
Suffering through traffic - (Brightkite)

5:48 PM - mypalal: Running just a little late. Dammit - (Twitter)

5:54 PM - MyPalAl posted a photo @ San Clemente

Passing the dollies - (Brightkite)

6:52 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

6:53 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

6:55 PM - mypalal: Finally here. Parking was horrible. Shows in 30 minutes - (Twitter)

6:59 PM - mypalal: Getting dinner at Saffron. Chicken and rice - (Twitter)

7:31 PM - mypalal: My iPod just ran out of power. Now I'm switching over to my cellphone for entertainment. http://tinyurl.com/m6lrpg - (Twitter)

9:39 PM - mypalal: I'm so hungry. Everything is closed - (Twitter)

9:40 PM - mypalal: I feel like I'll never play 5 things again - (Twitter)

11:33 PM - mypalal: Finished two good shows. Catch me next week in Phoenix. - (Twitter)

11:38 PM - MyPalAl posted a photo @ National Comedy Theatre

Revealing the magic back stage - (Brightkite)

12:14 AM - mypalal: Is heading home from san diego still looking for a place to get dinner. http://tinyurl.com/lfcw4y - (Twitter)

1:47 AM - mypalal: Finally made it home safely thanks to you to have my cell phone. http://tinyurl.com/mzeybj - (Twitter)

Sunday, July 26, 2009

Improv Tweets for 7/25/09

Improv Comedy Journal

4:30 PM - mypalal: Is headed down to san diego for the big show. http://tinyurl.com/lzjgha - (Twitter)

7:12 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

7:15 PM - mypalal: 15 minutes to show time - (Twitter)

7:23 PM - MyPalAl posted a photo @ National Comedy Theatre

10 minutes to go - (Brightkite)

7:36 PM - mypalal: Sorry folks first show is sold out - (Twitter)

9:38 PM - mypalal: Finished first half with score of 19 to 0. Me zero - (Twitter)

9:52 PM - mypalal: ver sweaty for second show - (Twitter)

11:36 PM - mypalal: Second show is done. I was a little naughty at the end. - (Twitter)

11:37 PM - mypalal: trying to get out before midnight show starts - (Twitter)

Saturday, July 25, 2009

Improv Tweets for 7/24/09

Improv Comedy Journal

9:19 AM - mypalal: If you're at #comiccon #sdcc, see the longest running comedy improv show in San Diego on Friday and Saturday night. http://bit.ly/frd7P - (Twitter)

3:46 PM - mypalal: @dtenacious1 So what can my family do in Phoenix other than see a great comedy show? I'm trying to sell a trip to the wife. - (Twitter)

Monday, July 20, 2009

Improv Tweets for 7/19/09

Improv Comedy Journal

11:42 PM -

Guy Pees While Laughing (NCT) (via NCTphoenix)Improv - (Tumblr)

Sunday, July 19, 2009

Improv Tweets for 7/18/09

Improv Comedy Journal

4:16 PM - mypalal: spent most of the afternoon organizing my DVD cabinet. Damn that's a lot of movies. Hoping to see improv-ka-bob tonight. - (Twitter)

7:46 PM - mypalal: In Tustin waiting for friends improv show - (Twitter)

Saturday, July 04, 2009

Improv Tweets for 7/3/09

Improv Comedy Journal

11:43 AM - mypalal: For the first time that I can remember, our little improv theater is closed for the holidays. - (Twitter)

11:45 AM - mypalal: Authorize.net is down. e-commerce shut down including my little improv theater. @NCTSanDiego - (Twitter)

11:48 AM - mypalal: @marinalehua Congrats Marina. You should do some improv tomorrow. Oh, that's right we're closed. - (Twitter)

12:04 PM - mypalal: @nctphoenix What I wouldn't give to be in Phoenix this weekend. improv - (Twitter)

Friday, July 03, 2009

Improv Snob

About three weeks ago, I saw a really, really bad improv show. I went because they were giving their tickets away for free and I had an open night. I wish I had my life back.

I often wonder though if I’m just being an improv snob. I’ve been performing at the National Comedy Theater in San Diego for over 8 years. I’m very proud of my show and yet, I have seen better improv shows in my life.

I feel that I need to qualify my review of the bad show by saying that it was different than my show, so I didn’t like it. But then, dammit, it was a bad show.

Why was it bad?

It was Blue. How many scenes about lace with obscenities and references to sex can you watch?
It was silly games. Yes, I admit, I play games in my show, but two hours of these gimmick games can be wearing on you. Personal, I like gimmick games if they’re done right, but I also like to tell a story.
It run by hot shots. There’s not a lot of teamwork going on stage. What I see often are class clowns all fighting for attention.

I believe anyone can do improv. But not every one should put on an improv show. Early in my youth, I always thought I was funny. Class clown. Laugh riot at parties. Then I realized that I was just being a smart ass.

When I started learning improv, I soon realized that I was not that good. Which is the first thing you need when you first start improv, humility.

I studied, I learned. I learned what worked. I learned what I had to do on stage to do a good show. I would not accept anything less than the best.

Some of the groups that I was a part of early in my career made me really unhappy. We would perform shows, 60% of it was funny and 40% was pure crap. I couldn’t stand the fact that we were happy with 40% crap and would do nothing to make it better.

Finally found the National Comedy Theater in San Diego (known then as ComedySportz). I’ve never been happier. I’m still excited to get up on stage every weekend. I’m glad that I can be proud of a show that I’m in and be able to tell my friends that it’s worth the trip to San Diego to see it. I also like the fact that it’s a family show. I also like to believe that ticket sales tell me how good the show is.

I used to perform in front of crowds of 15 and less. Today, I’m performing for sold out shows of 100 guests. Maybe that’s the best measure of whether my style of improv is the right style.

Enough of my snobbery. Now let me crawl back under my rock.

Improv Tweets for 7/2/09

Improv Comedy Journal

3:38 PM - mypalal: We'll find out next month if I work for the best live comedy shows in San Diego. NCT turns 10 this year. - (Twitter)

Thursday, July 02, 2009

Improv Tweets for 7/1/09

Improv Comedy Journal

12:47 PM - Auditions for Live Improv Comedy
National Comedy Theatre in Phoenix is holding auditions Sunday August 2nd for their improv comedy team. No experience is necessary; fun, energetic people with a positive attitude and good listening skills are welcome. These are the last auditions of 2009. Must sign up at 602-374-5638 or info@nctphoenix.com. 1111 S Longmore, Mesa, AZ - (Digg)

12:49 PM - MyPalAl commented on Auditions for Live Improv Comedy
NCT is an awesome improv show. - (Digg)

Saturday, June 27, 2009

Improv Tweets for 6/26/09

Improv Comedy Journal

5:51 PM - mypalal: is finally in San Diego. Emptied a really full bladder. improv - (Twitter)

5:52 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

5:54 PM - mypalal: I got here earlier than expected. it's nap time - (Twitter)

6:53 PM - mypalal: Theater is ready to go. - (Twitter)

7:30 PM - mypalal: We are warmed up and ready to go. improv - (Twitter)

9:21 PM - mypalal: I got brown bagged for saying "nuts" and coughing. improv - (Twitter)

11:32 PM - mypalal: Done with the second show. Improv. pushing dem borders. - (Twitter)

Sunday, June 07, 2009

Improv Tweets for 6/6/09

Improv Comedy Journal

3:52 PM - mypalal: I'm getting ready to head to San Diego. I have two improv shows tonight. 7:30 and 9:45 pm. www.nationalcomedy.com - (Twitter)

9:49 PM - mypalal: had a great first show. Didn't win but did some strong improv for the crowd. - (Twitter)

9:51 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

9:53 PM - MyPalAl posted a text message @ National Comedy Theatre
We just had a great show. Played WAYD, Blind Line, Musical Comedy, World's Worst, Animatronic. - (Brightkite)

Saturday, June 06, 2009

Improv Tweets for 6/5/09

Improv Comedy Journal

9:13 AM - mypalal: is performing improv tomorrow in San Diego at 7:30 and 9:45. www.nationalcomedy.com. - (Twitter)

Saturday, May 30, 2009

Improv Tweets for 5/29/09

Improv Comedy Journal

8:40 PM - mypalal: is about to head out to a free improv show in Fullerton. God, I hope they're good. - (Twitter)

11:59 PM - mypalal: just got back from a truly horrible improv show. OMG kill me now. - (Twitter)

Thursday, May 28, 2009

Lost Scene from the Office

I wish I could tell you where I got this, but I can’t.

Michael: “Oh, who’s this?”

Pam: “That’s my niece.”

Michael: “Ah, is that your brother?”

Pam: “Michael! That’s me!”

Michael: “Oh…sorry, I thought that person was topless.”

Pam: “What?!?”

Toby: “Michael, that’s not-“

Michael: “I hate you Toby.”

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Improv Tweets for 5/26/09

Improv Comedy Journal

1:40 PM - mypalal: Please vote for my Improv Comedy show as Best Live Theater in San Diego. This is our 10th year of bringing comedy to San Diego. http://p ... - (Twitter)

1:44 PM - mypalal: Please vote for my Improv Comedy show as Best Live Theater in San Diego. It's our 10th year in San Diego. http://bit.ly/195iRh - (Twitter)

Thursday, May 14, 2009

Improv Tweets for 5/13/09

Improv Comedy Journal

9:19 AM - mypalal: @dtenacious1 Congratulations my friend. I was able to vote a few times for ya'll. improv - (Twitter)

Sunday, May 10, 2009

Improv Tweets for 5/9/09

Improv Comedy Journal

1:52 PM - mypalal: I'm now in San Diego for level 1 improv workshop. - (Twitter)

1:53 PM - mypalal: the level 2 students don't like 185. improv - (Twitter)

1:55 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

1:59 PM - MyPalAl posted a photo @ National Comedy Theatre

Mike trying to explain why 185 is a good game. - (Brightkite)

6:05 PM - mypalal: Just opened the doors. 1st show has 40 tix sold. We'll probably sell out. improv - (Twitter)

6:12 PM - mypalal: playing Millionaire before the show start. improv - (Twitter)

7:41 PM - mypalal: 1st half, 1st show. We are losing. WAYD, Fresh Choice, Moving bodies. Improv #nct - (Twitter)

8:34 PM - mypalal: 1st Show complete. Anamatronic, Beastie and 185. We came from behind and won. improv #nct - (Twitter)

10:44 PM - mypalal: 2nd improv show done. Waiting for notes. Then the fight to stay awake. - (Twitter)

10:45 PM - mypalal: Gary got 5 out of 5 things thanks to Jamie and Alan. #nct improv - (Twitter)

10:51 PM - mypalal: So far two great improv shows. Moving bodies rocks. - (Twitter)

10:52 PM - mypalal: @NCTSanDiego Stop tweeting and pay attention to notes. improv #nct - (Twitter)

Sunday, May 03, 2009

Improv Tweets for 5/2/09

Improv Comedy Journal

8:32 PM - mypalal: Just finished our first improv show. The Second half was better than the first. @NCTSanDiego - (Twitter)

9:56 PM - mypalal: @dtenacious1 Not sure we have enough fans for that. - (Twitter)

1:08 AM - mypalal: I'm finally home from my improv shows. My body has never ached this badly before. I'm so ready for sleep. - (Twitter)

Saturday, May 02, 2009

Improv Tweets for 5/1/09

Improv Comedy Journal

10:39 AM - mypalal: #FollowFriday These are two great improv groups - @nctphoenix @NCTSanDiego - (Twitter)

Sunday, April 19, 2009

Improv Tweets for 4/18/09

Improv Comedy Journal

12:06 PM - mypalal: is heading down to San Diego for workshop and shows. - (Twitter)

2:23 PM - mypalal: I've arrived in San Diego. A little tired but doing well. About to teach Level 1 improv. I'm also in charge of tonight's shows. - (Twitter)

4:48 PM - mypalal: Improv workshop went awesome. going to Saffron for dinner and then shows 7:30 and 9:45. - (Twitter)

6:20 PM - mypalal: Teams are set and we're ready to go. improv - (Twitter)

6:35 PM - mypalal: We're going to see if Joe is going to tweet during the show. improv - (Twitter)

6:36 PM - mypalal: @NCTSanDiego You better be Tweeting right now!!! improv - (Twitter)

6:43 PM - mypalal: Our improv show has begun. we're about to hit the stage. Will we get live tweeting though. - (Twitter)

6:46 PM - mypalal: Clapdown has started. show's on now. - (Twitter)

7:48 PM - mypalal: Done with first half. We got smacked. Schoolyard insult. foreign Movie (awesome), Good advice/Bad advice. Regina Caverns is back. improv - (Twitter)

7:48 PM - mypalal: We had a racist audience member. It was pretty bad. improv - (Twitter)

7:58 PM - mypalal: @NCTSanDiego Why won't you tweet while reffing??? - (Twitter)

8:33 PM - mypalal: First improv show is done. We pulled it out in the end and won it. Playing Blind Freeze Tag, Dirty Hand Randy and 185. - (Twitter)

8:35 PM - mypalal: Awaiting the start of the second show. Had a little spat with a wheelchair. - (Twitter)

8:37 PM - mypalal: @NCTSanDiego Cmon! You gotta tweet during the show. - (Twitter)

8:40 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

8:40 PM - MyPalAl posted a text message @ National Comedy Theatre
is resting before the second Improv show. - (Brightkite)

8:59 PM - mypalal: Second Improv show has begun. we changed refs at the last minute. - (Twitter)

10:00 PM - mypalal: Just done with the second half. It was a little brutal. - (Twitter)

10:03 PM - mypalal: is trying to get people to sign up as fans on Facebook and followers on Twitter. @NCTSanDiego http://ping.fm/7yxSe - (Twitter)

10:04 PM - mypalal: We're gonna try and blow through the second half. I'm a little tired. - (Twitter)

10:37 PM - mypalal: We are done with shows. Cleaning up and then notes and then home!!!!! - (Twitter)

11:29 PM - mypalal: after 2 really good improv shows, I'm ready to go home. Pray for me I'm tired. - (Twitter)

Saturday, April 18, 2009

Improv Tweets for 4/17/09

Improv Comedy Journal

8:16 AM - mypalal: Amen Brother. RT @SIMAFOL: Improv is much more than making people laugh. - (Twitter)

7:27 PM - mypalal: is happy to see my #improv group on Twitter. Follow us at @NCTSanDiego. - (Twitter)

Sunday, April 12, 2009

Improv Tweets for 4/11/09

Improv Comedy Journal

11:48 AM - mypalal: trying to get out of the house for a little Improv Workshop. Today is relationships. - (Twitter)

11:50 AM - mypalal: Looks like there's traffic everywhere. I'm going down the 5 today. - (Twitter)

2:00 PM - mypalal: is now in San Diego and I've got shows tonight - 7:30 & 9:45. - (Twitter)

2:06 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

6:03 PM - mypalal: The theater is clean and now the crowd comes. - (Twitter)

8:36 PM - mypalal: is done with the first show. Very very funny. - (Twitter)

8:42 PM - mypalal: @dtenacious1 Our first show went great. How about yours? - (Twitter)

Saturday, April 11, 2009

Improv Tweets for 4/10/09

Improv Comedy Journal

6:28 AM - mypalal: I just woke up from a dream where I improvised an entire musical. I was pretty good at my rhymes. #improv - (Twitter)

6:29 AM - mypalal: It was kind of a nightmare because the referee would never call time and end the damn thing. #improv - (Twitter)

Sunday, April 05, 2009

Improv Tweets for 4/4/09

Improv Comedy Journal

2:02 PM - mypalal: is in San Diego for level 1 improv workshop. Shows at 7:30 and 9:45 tonight - (Twitter)

2:02 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

Saturday, April 04, 2009

Improv Tweets for 4/3/09

Improv Comedy Journal

7:48 AM - mypalal: is at the worst time of the week. Start of the work day on Friday. I have shows Saturday. #improv http://ping.fm/0npuH - (Twitter)

8:10 AM - mypalal: My cousin is producing a clean comedy show tonight in Pasadena. It's at 8 p.m. and only $5. http://ping.fm/AW4Q8 - (Twitter)

9:42 AM - mypalal: I've been following the "Improv" search on Tweetdeck. I didn't realize how popular this art form is. - (Twitter)

Friday, April 03, 2009

Improv Tweets for 4/2/09

Improv Comedy Journal

9:37 AM - mypalal: RT @JossipDotCom: Improv Everywhere sometimes gets a bad rep for being cheesy, annoying, or downrig.. http://tinyurl.com/dzg6hr - (Twitter)

Thursday, April 02, 2009

Improv Tweets for 4/1/09

Improv Comedy Journal

9:24 AM -

This is from ImprovEverywhere. Real or fake? Look real, but could be fake. - (Tumblr)

10:22 PM - mypalal: watching old videos of Improv Everywhere with the wife. Frozen Grand Central was great. - (Twitter)

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Improv Tweets for 3/30/09

Improv Comedy Journal

11:34 AM - mypalal: Forgot to mention that there is a fantastic interview with Catherine O'Hara on the Dennis Miller show from last week. Check iTunes #improv - (Twitter)

Sunday, March 29, 2009

Improv Tweets for 3/28/09

Improv Comedy Journal

11:08 AM - mypalal: is getting ready to head down to San Diego for some good old fashioned #improv. I'm in the first two shows only tonight. - (Twitter)

11:12 AM - mypalal: gonna make this an all #improv tweet day. - (Twitter)

11:13 AM - mypalal: I'm just about packed. I need to print out my level 1 #improv notes for the day. Today we learn the concept of "Yes and..." - (Twitter)

11:14 AM - mypalal: I wrote a little #improv blog about the "myth" of Yes and. http://tinyurl.com/cxajbq - (Twitter)

11:48 AM - mypalal: on my way to San Diego. #improv - (Twitter)

11:51 AM - MyPalAl checked in @ Chick-Fil-A
MyPalAl checked in @ Chick-Fil-A - (Brightkite)

11:56 AM - MyPalAl posted a photo @ Chick-Fil-A

Lunch. improv - (Brightkite)

1:42 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

1:44 PM - mypalal: I'm in San Diego now. Level 2 already ended. So I'm just hanging and reviewing my notes. - (Twitter)

5:29 PM - mypalal: level 1 is over and I just had dinner at Saffron. #improv - (Twitter)

5:29 PM - mypalal: we're catching up with everyone's lives now. We have a remote tonight. #improv - (Twitter)

5:29 PM - mypalal: Looks like a birthday party. They almost had to perform on the beach. #improv - (Twitter)

5:55 PM - mypalal: Someone stole tips last night. Bunch of teenagers. #improv - (Twitter)

5:58 PM - mypalal: The theater is all set up. Looks like a sold out first show. - (Twitter)

6:23 PM - mypalal: An old performer is visiting us tonight. 7 minutes to go. #improv - (Twitter)

6:32 PM - mypalal: We are warmed and ready to go. Just waiting for a large group to come in. #improv - (Twitter)

6:41 PM - MyPalAl posted a photo @ National Comedy Theatre

Joe ref's in front of sold out crowd - (Brightkite)

7:58 PM - mypalal: just finished 1st half. Awesome show so far. Frat party is here. - (Twitter)

7:59 PM - mypalal: got to play 5 things for once. also blind date replay, Rap madrigal and sideline debate. #improv - (Twitter)

8:36 PM - mypalal: 1st show done. and we won. Like that matters. #improv - (Twitter)

8:37 PM - mypalal: Played DaDoo and 185. I was a little too enthusiastic. #improv - (Twitter)

8:47 PM - mypalal: Heard remote went well. You gotta love improv for children. - (Twitter)

8:49 PM - mypalal: I'm on the red team now. Almost time for 2nd show. #improv - (Twitter)

9:02 PM - mypalal: We're just minutes from our second show. #improv - (Twitter)

10:51 PM - mypalal: is done with shows tonight. Missing midnight show. #improv - (Twitter)

10:52 PM - mypalal: 2nd show ended great. another sold out crowd. I get such a high. #improv - (Twitter)

Sunday, March 22, 2009

Improv Tweets for 3/21/09

Improv Comedy Journal

11:10 AM - mypalal: Getting last minute things done before heading to san diego for sure tonight. http://tinyurl.com/cmpetw - (Twitter)

11:20 AM - mypalal: is heading down to San Diego to teach improv. I also have shows tonight at 7:30 and 9:45. http://ping.fm/0npuH - (Twitter)

1:42 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

1:44 PM - mypalal: Finally made it to San Diego. I've got 30 minutes to get my head together. - (Twitter)

5:03 PM - mypalal: I'm done with teaching improv. Eating dinner at Saffron and then waiting for everyone to show up. I'm in charge tonight. - (Twitter)

6:00 PM - mypalal: we are ready fo show. 5 minutes before doors open. - (Twitter)

7:43 PM - mypalal: It's halftime. We kiciked A in Changing Emotions. - (Twitter)

12:52 AM - mypalal: Had 2 really good shows tonight. Self scrape(?) about my performance. Improv. http://tinyurl.com/cdaee7 - (Twitter)

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Improv Tweets for 3/13/09

Improv Comedy Journal

5:40 AM - mypalal: The Roots style of Improv reminds me of Wayne Brady. - (Twitter)

Friday, March 13, 2009

Improv Tweets for 3/12/09

Improv Comedy Journal

1:20 PM - Comedy in Mesa? We kid you not
Forget driving to Tempe or Scottsdale for a laugh; comedy fans can get giggling right here in Mesa. National Comedy Theatre presents four live comedy shows each weekend, and, through March 21, tickets to the late shows are buy-one-get-one-free. - (Digg)

Sunday, March 08, 2009

Improv Tweets for 3/7/09

Improv Comedy Journal

2:59 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

3:01 PM - mypalal: is in San Diego preparing for the last improv workshop. - (Twitter)

3:06 PM - MyPalAl posted a photo @ National Comedy Theatre

Mike using his arms to teach improv. - (Brightkite)

3:08 PM - MyPalAl posted a photo @ National Comedy Theatre

Everyone loves a clown, but a clown scene? improv - (Brightkite)

7:35 PM - mypalal: Just about ready to start the first show. - (Twitter)

7:40 PM - mypalal: I'm the blue team and I'm in charge for the night. - (Twitter)

8:38 PM - mypalal: finished 1st half. Played Schoolyard insults, Oracle and blind line. We won Schoolyard only. - (Twitter)

8:40 PM - mypalal: Had to do Schoolyard insults clues by myself. - (Twitter)

8:42 PM - mypalal: Oracle stunk because the audience asked the Dr-Know-It-All type questions. - (Twitter)

8:43 PM - mypalal: @dtenacious1 We're at intermission. Joe, Marina, Casey and Dave say hi. - (Twitter)

8:44 PM - mypalal: Blind line was great but was beat by a better Potpouri reply. - (Twitter)

8:44 PM - mypalal: So far dropped the race card once and a woman once. - (Twitter)

9:12 PM - mypalal: is done with the first show. We lost. Cheated at Beastie Rap. - (Twitter)

9:20 PM - mypalal: Nice round of Blind freeze. - (Twitter)

9:33 PM - MyPalAl posted a photo @ National Comedy Theatre

What a waste of money. Cable, surge protector and cleaning kit. - (Brightkite)

9:50 PM - mypalal: the second show has begun. Joe is reffing. - (Twitter)

9:50 PM - MyPalAl posted a photo @ National Comedy Theatre

2nd improv show has begun. - (Brightkite)

10:53 PM - mypalal: finished the 1st half of 2nd show. Played Oracle again and Shakespeare. - (Twitter)

10:54 PM - mypalal: was told Casey looks stupid with Green sleeves under black jersey. - (Twitter)

10:55 PM - mypalal: told MArina to mix up game bucket or we'll play Oracle. She didn't mix the bucket. - (Twitter)

11:00 PM - MyPalAl posted a photo @ National Comedy Theatre

Backstage at NCT improv - (Brightkite)

Wednesday, March 04, 2009

Improv Tweets for 3/3/09

Improv Comedy Journal

10:31 AM - mypalal: Just had a lively discussion of how disappointing #Heroes was last night. I'm not in that camp. I really hope to see improvement next week. - (Twitter)

Thursday, February 26, 2009

Improv Tweets for 2/25/09

Improv Comedy Journal

4:41 PM - mypalal: I would like to be motivated to produce an Improv Comedy show. I'm just need a kick in the pants. - (Twitter)

Sunday, February 22, 2009

Improv Tweets for 2/21/09

Improv Comedy Journal

2:45 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

2:46 PM - mypalal: I'm in San Diego watching the level 2 Improv class. - (Twitter)

5:39 PM - mypalal: is done teaching improv. now eating dinner, then show. - (Twitter)

Friday, February 13, 2009

Improv Tweets for 2/12/09

Improv Comedy Journal

6:34 AM - Bailout: Isn't Doing Nothing, Doing Something?: This is a blog from a Stand-Up, I once knew when doing the comedy club circuit. Sometimes a do nothing Congress is a good Congress. - (Tumblr)

Sunday, February 08, 2009

Improv Tweets for 2/7/09

Improv Comedy Journal

3:09 PM - mypalal: now I'm rushing to get ready for class. - (Twitter)

7:28 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

7:31 PM - mypalal: Just warmed up. We're ready to perform. Looks let 58 for the first show. - (Twitter)

7:37 PM - mypalal: About to perform the first show. Close to sold out - (Twitter)

8:44 PM - mypalal: Intermission. We didn't get to play 5 thing. - (Twitter)

8:45 PM - mypalal: Now I'm having explanation of Beer Pong. Also Who is David Hayes. - (Twitter)

9:51 PM - mypalal: Looks like 70 for the second improv show. - (Twitter)

11:08 PM - mypalal: Finished 1st half. Sold out crowd. Played WAYD, What if? Sit stand kneel lie. - (Twitter)

11:11 PM - MyPalAl posted a photo @ National Comedy Theatre

Intermission - (Brightkite)

11:16 PM - MyPalAl posted a photo @ National Comedy Theatre

Intermission again - (Brightkite)

11:58 PM - mypalal: finished 2nd show. Mystery where, Beasty rap, and World's Worst. improv - (Twitter)

12:47 AM - mypalal: I'll be honest fun shows but not my best shows. Wasn't as confident as I like to be. improv - (Twitter)

Tuesday, February 03, 2009

Improv Tweets for 2/2/09

Improv Comedy Journal

7:43 AM - Passive Aggressive Notes - (Tumblr)

Sunday, February 01, 2009

Improv Tweets for 1/31/09

Improv Comedy Journal

10:04 AM - mypalal: is getting a few boxes labeled and then heading off to San Diego. Tonights shows at 7:30 pm and 9:45 pm. http://ping.fm/7vBDI - (Twitter)

11:39 AM - mypalal: Just about ready to head to San Diego. I'm having problems getting my Improv notes to print on the office computer. On laptop now. - (Twitter)

11:46 AM - mypalal: My notes have printed. I can get ready to go. Today is going to be a good day. Gonna miss the fam. - (Twitter)

12:31 PM - mypalal: I'm on the road. First getting gas. then getting lunch. - (Twitter)

2:22 PM - mypalal: finally arrived in San Diego. Our first improv show is on the verge of selling out again. - (Twitter)

2:22 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

2:24 PM - MyPalAl posted a photo @ National Comedy Theatre

Waiting for my Level 1 improv class to start. - (Brightkite)

2:26 PM - MyPalAl posted a photo @ National Comedy Theatre

Mike teaching the level 2 class about building a scene. - (Brightkite)

2:37 PM - mypalal: is mourning the loss of the Groaner foul. - (Twitter)

5:45 PM - mypalal: just finished level 1 improv. good class but went long. 1st show has a Jewish Youth Group in audience. - (Twitter)

7:07 PM - MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre
MyPalAl checked in @ National Comedy Theatre - (Brightkite)

9:45 PM - mypalal: won the first show. Played WAYD, Day in the Life, Blind Line, 185, Da Doo and 185. - (Twitter)

11:10 PM - mypalal: Finished 1st half 2nd show. Countdown (beating a good sing it), Dinner at Joe's. 4 out of 5 in 5 things. - (Twitter)

11:13 PM - mypalal: A little tired but having good shows. improv - (Twitter)

11:58 PM - mypalal: won the 2nd show with Beastie Rap and World's Worst. - (Twitter)

12:09 AM - img196.jpg