Have you ever heard of a completely improvised live soap opera in Calgary? Dirty Laundry Calgary can be described as a theatrical phenomenon. Every performance is a new story, crafted live on stage by talented actors. Audiences in Calgary can witness characters, intrigues, and unexpected plot twists unfold before their eyes. Each show brings a new theatrical narrative, making it a captivating experience. Discover more about this unique theater company with calgary-trend.
The History of Dirty Laundry Calgary
In 1999, Eleanor Holt and Karen Johnson-Diamond founded Dirty Laundry Calgary. They were inspired by Edmonton’s long-running improvised soap opera Die-Nasty, which began in 1991. This comedic, improvised format featured an ongoing storyline, recurring characters, live music, and a director who set the scenes. The soap opera format allows for expansive narratives filled with numerous characters, intrigues, and plotlines, immersing audiences in a world of drama and emotion.
Dirty Laundry Calgary debuted at the 10-Minute Play Festival as part of the High Performance Rodeo. The company has also participated in corporate shows and workshops.
Their first venue was The Studio Cafe (now Tokyo Street Market) on Centre Street. For over 10 years, Dirty Laundry Calgary performed regularly at Lunchbox Theatre.
Memorable Seasons
For years, Eleanor and Karen served as show producers. Later, Nicole Zylstra joined as co-producer at the beginning of the season, followed by Aaron Coates in the ninth season. Together, they co-produced the shows until 2016.
For Carly McKee, co-producer of Dirty Laundry Calgary, the 17th season, titled Monday Night Lights, marked her first production. Meanwhile, this was Aaron Coates’s final season.
In the 18th season, Sunset Studios, Carly McKee became the artistic director, with Josh Bertwistle as artistic producer.
By the 20th season, Karen Johnson-Diamond returned as artistic director, supported by co-producers Lara Schmitz and Chris Enright.
The First Generation
Dirty Laundry Calgary offers weekly episodes of a season-long storyline. Imagine a two-hour improvised comedy show where you can fall in love with diverse characters and follow their evolving plot arcs. Each week, the storyline continues, keeping the audience engaged and intrigued.
Performances are held every Monday evening, with a short intermission. Audiences never know what to expect since the actors create everything on the spot.
The Next Generation
In 2014, Dirty Laundry Calgary launched Dirty Laundry: The Next Generation (TNG), a mentorship program for young performers aged 15 to 18 interested in improvisation and theater.
These performers appeared in their own Sunday evening series. Soon, First Generation actors joined their shows. The program’s success and reach were immense, with nearly every show selling out.
In 2017, the program expanded its auditions to include performers aged 13 to 18.
Next Generation actors hone their skills in a creative theatrical environment. Their shows take place on Sunday evenings, maintaining the tradition of on-the-spot improvisation.
The company regularly updates its website and social media channels with audition opportunities, making it a great avenue for aspiring performers to join Dirty Laundry Calgary.
What Makes Dirty Laundry Calgary Unique?
First-time attendees of Dirty Laundry Calgary performances will undoubtedly be amazed. Each episode is a fresh story with an unpredictable ending. Several key features set this theater company apart:
- Live and Dynamic Performances: Actors improvise in real-time, responding quickly to audience cues. This creates a unique atmosphere for every show.
- Episodic Storytelling: Each performance feels like part of a live-action series. Audiences never know what’s coming in the next episode, as plots, characters, and intrigues continuously evolve.
- Interactive Experience: Audience reactions, laughter, and applause directly influence the storyline, making it impossible to remain a passive observer.
Attending performances by both the First and Next Generation not only supports local talent but also contributes to the growth of improvisational theater in Calgary.
