Mackenzie McGrath, Campus Carrier asst. arts and living editor

In the world of improv comedy, few challenges are as daunting as performing for 24 hours straight, with no script and no plan beyond the next spontaneous scene. Yet each year, the members of Easy Baked Improv willingly embrace this grueling test of creativity and endurance. Their annual Improvathon has become more than just a performance;.It’s a living, breathing showcase of the group’s passion and dedication. The event pushes the limits of what’s possible, transforming exhaustion into an unforgettable, high-energy spectacle that leaves a lasting impact on both the performers and everyone who watches.

Improvathon is an improv comedy show that lasts for 24 hours straight. Every member of Berry’s own Easy Baked Improv spends time performing improvised comedy scenes, with viewers free to enter and exit as they please. The event takes place annually in Evans Auditorium. This year’s Improvathon began at 7 p.m. on March 27 and ran until 7 p.m. on March 28. Originally created in the early 2000s, the event was conceived as a way for the team to raise money to perform at a festival. The idea was to charge for 24 hours of nonstop improv comedy, and it has continued every year since then.

The event ran smoothly, thanks to the members of the improv group switching off to sleep in shifts. This allowed the performers to stay fresh and energetic while still maintaining a high level of entertainment throughout the night. Special guests also arrived to enjoy the show, including President Briggs and several professors. Their presence added an extra layer of excitement and support to the already thriving event.

To keep things engaging for the audience, the group planned several unique events within the show, such as “Musical Theatre Hour” on Saturday. These special segments were designed to offer variety and keep the energy high, ensuring that viewers would stay entertained no matter when they dropped by during the 24-hour period. The group’s creativity and dedication to providing fresh material contributed to the event’s overall success and admiration.

At the end of Improvathon, the members of Easy Baked Improv were exhausted but ultimately felt accomplished in their efforts. The students who came to support the group left feeling thoroughly entertained and appreciative of the hard work the performers had put into the marathon show. Improvathon remains a beloved annual tradition for both the performers and the audience, showcasing the talents and commitment of the Easy Baked Improv troupe.

“Usually, the audience who come in for the first few hours really enjoy the comedy and lively atmosphere,” Logan Stastny, sophomore member of Easy Baked Improv, said. “The audience who come in after that just enjoy watching us suffer. It’s all for the bit really. The idea that a group of people would neglect their lives in favor of doing improv for 24 hours is pretty funny to me. Each year I just hope someone else finds it funny, too.”

The general consensus when someone brings up the idea of a 24-hour improv show is often, “Why? Why would they put themselves through that?” The answer lies in the sheer dedication to their craft that the Easy Baked Improv team possesses. They all agree that this tradition is important and needs to continue for the future of Berry College. For them, it’s more than just a performance, it’s a way to showcase their skills and passion for improv comedy, ensuring that the event remains a highlight each year.

Improvathon brings a lot of exposure to Easy Baked, and it ultimately piques interest in the group, whether it’s from audience members who want to attend future shows or even those who might be inspired to perform with the group. The event provides an opportunity to connect with a wider audience and grow the community surrounding the improv troupe. The audience members, in turn, are often very supportive, bringing food and materials to help the performers get through the long hours in Evans Auditorium.

Creativity can be difficult to maintain, especially when sleep deprivation starts to take its toll. However, audiences seem to notice that despite these challenges, the Easy Baked performers remain dedicated to putting on an incredible show. Their commitment to their craft is evident, and they continue to entertain with passion and energy, even when the odds seem stacked against them. This unwavering dedication is what makes the event so special and keeps people coming back year after year.

The commitment and energy that Easy Baked Improv pours into every performance, especially during the grueling Improvathon, is a testament to their passion for comedy and their community. Their ability to push through exhaustion and continue delivering quality performances highlights not only their talent but also the bond they share with their audience. As the group looks ahead to their upcoming shows, including one last performance in April, students can expect another round of fun and unpredictable moments. With the group’s hard work, it will be worth the watch.