SNL Meets CDS: Join Us for Cyclone Hilarity

Since the first week of school they have been creating and scripting their own ‘premises’, or ideas for scenes, in preparation for performing a series of fantastically funny sketches that use the same improvisational techniques actors at The Second City in Toronto and Chicago have been using for years.
CDS Drama Faculty took a leap of faith this year and outsourced directing duties to actual Second City Improv Instructors, who they are learning from as well. Anne McMaster and Mat Mailandt have been working with the dynamic young cast after school three days a week for the past two months, guiding them through the journey of “teasing” forth a healthy dose of parody, satire and comedy for the upcoming production.

“Being a teen is tough and if you can’t find ways to laugh about it, it’s even tougher,” remarks Mat. “Comedy is what unifies us – brings us together. Improvisation is a big risk – a leap of faith.”

On top of that, they both agree that comedy is hard to do. “It’s 95% work and 5% fun – but so important – we all need to laugh more.”

Some personal qualities that make for good improvisers include patience, playfulness, strong listening skills, compassion and willingness to make a partner look good. Apparently the CDS cast possess all of these characteristics in spades.

“The students have worked so hard on this,” reports Anne. “You will see sketches capturing moments from life at the School or how they see the world, including some that tackle popular adolescent themes, technology, ethics and social norms.” Throw in some Pokémon GO and Cyclone City offers everything you would ever want in family friendly show!