Behind The Laughter by Sergio Jiménez/@SXfoto

If laughter is the best medicine, then The Show has the cure. The Show, Albuquerque’s very own critically acclaimed improv comedy troupe, has had audiences chuckling for more than two years at The Box Performance Space and Improv Theatre downtown.

Behind the laughter though are countless hours of devotion and dedication for the improvisers to perfect their craft. Melissa Heiman, The Show manager and performer, has been doing improv for about five years and knows very well the ins and outs of improvisational performance.

“Discipline, hard work and continued training are important aspects of what makes an improv troupe successful,” Heiman said.

Before a performance, as the audience awaits the entrance of the improvisers with excitement, the backstage becomes a methodical and even zen-like setting.

“We have several things we do to get ready (before going on stage), including a vocal warm-up. But it’s mostly about checking in with each other and getting focused so that we can put on the best show possible,” Heiman said.

Chemistry among improvisers has been the key for putting on a good show night after night. “Having good chemistry is one of many keys to a successful improv show. We are very lucky in our group. We all get along very well and have a lot of fun playing together,” Heiman said.

The dynamic between the improvisers and audience is also just as crucial. “People are drawn to improv because it’s always different. Because the performance is based on audience suggestions, there is always something people can relate to. The interplay between the audience and performers is dynamic, so it’s interesting and always really fun,” Heiman said.

With the seats regularly being filled during the performances, do not be surprised if the fun improv comedy experience that The Show brings becomes a staple in downtown Albuquerque and has audiences laughing for years to come.

“We enjoy making people laugh and giving audiences something unexpected. One of the great things about improvisational comedy is that you never know what to expect, which makes it fun for everyone – the performers and the audience. Knowing that you’re working together to make people laugh is very rewarding,” Heiman said.