Trish Hays, the newest member of the troupe, works in a global positioning business during the day. Frank Riley, one of the founding partners, is employed at an office supply warehouse. Orton works in public relations. The hallmark of improv humor is total acceptance. Then you take your next line from them and give it back for them to build on.
Improvisation is an antidote for a life grown stagnant, both for actors and audience.
It's almost like being a child again, free and spontaneous. Hays, a grandmother of three, had never acted onstage before she attended the annual beginner's improvisation workshop conducted by Orton, who does all the training, public relations and bookings for the group. We sat in a circle and played games, like Bunny. Orton, who began his adventure in improv eight years ago, emphasizes that formal training in acting is not necessary for improv theater. Desire is the only qualification for one of his workshops.