If you were given a chance to call shots on the ending of a show, would you watch it?
Fortunately, audience members are given this option if they watch “Yes or Yes, And!”, an improv show by the Crammers’ Collective.
Crammers’ Collective is Manila’s only all-male, all-youth improvisation group. It was formed by a group of students around the Metro who share a passion for unscripted storytelling and spontaneous expression.
Given their age group, Crammers’ Collective (otherwise known as the Crammers) aims to add a fresh take on improv theater by presenting candid stories through the eyes of the youth.
“The events that ensue will be unscripted,” said the group. “The characters created will be brand new, and the stories will keep you guessing.”
(Photo from Crammers’ Collective)
How Improv Grows
“Yes or Yes, And!” uses spry, vibrant energy that showcases the group in a few improvised stories, some of which will be longer compared to the others. These plays are similar to one-act plays except they unfurl based on given prompts, including suggestions made by the audience.
The show was initially based on a K-pop song, but the group figured that K-Pop is something they’d rather apply on their own separate performances.
“We wanted to make an improv show with a lighter spirit, so we decided to use the joke to push ourselves in that direction,” the group said.
Through Saturday practice sessions, the Crammers honed their improv skills by testing out new formats and creating on-the-spot scenes together.
“Improv is an art form that needs practice just like any other,” they explained. “But instead of practicing the performance itself, we practice things that will improve our performance.”
The Crammers have been part of Fringe Manila Festival since they first joined in 2017. Experiencing it each year exposes them to the passion and support that the artist community has with everyone.
“Performing is a passion for most of us,” the group said. “And coming into the festival, we love seeing the delight that people receive upon watching improv in general.”
Given the unpredictable nature of improv as a genre, the Crammers encouraged viewers to “look out for anything” in the show.
“We’ll let what you give inspire us, and we’ll try to take you places,” they advised. “Exect interesting characters, dynamic narratives, many laughs, and most of all, the unexpected.”
Supporting the Improv Industry
The Crammers encourage viewers to watch shows of other improv groups in the Fringe lineup, who they refer to as their “symbolical ates and kuyas in the improv community.” They also believe that a performing arts community should support and welcome other forms of expression from all artists.
“Performance art is a fantastic way for people to express themselves,” the group said. “[It] will always be something distinct to its local scene so it’s a prime example of supporting and appreciating uniquely Filipino art as well!”
For aspiring performers, the Crammers acknowledged how difficult it is to balance performance and art in one’s life. Regardless, they emphasize the value of committing and making time for their craft.
“Get that practice in, sing or recite lines in your mirror, [and] read how to get better,” they advised. “Talk to people, find out what you can join, and go for that role. Make art a habit!”
“Yes or ‘Yes, and!” will be showing on March 2, 8pm, at the Yuchengco Museum for Fringe Manila 2019. Tickets will be sold at P300 and can be bought by contacting info@yuchengcomuseum.org or (632) 889-1234.
For more information, visit their events page or follow Crammers’ Collective on Facebook!
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