Review by Èva Morin
60m | Comedy, Variety | Mature
The name’s Prov. GRIMprov. Cue the timeless theme song and the suave attitude captured by the likes of Sean Connery, Pierce Brosnan, and Daniel Craig.
For its Fringe premiere, improvisational comedic troupe GRIMprov presented BONDprov, creating a personalized James Bond production based off the audience’s suggestions. The result made for hilarious, sometimes nonsensical, plots and developments, and the roaring applause and laughter from the audience left no doubts about the show’s success.
The troupe’s members — Joel Garrow, Mike Kosowan, and Drew McFadyen — all bring different styles and approaches to the characters and situations they make up along the way. While there were some word fumbles and a lack of fluidity in certain scenes from their first performance this year, the actors were always able to keep the audience captivated. The fourth member of GRIMprov, DJ Helicase (aka Austin Vair), served as maestro for the accompanying music during and between scenes, never missing a beat in choosing songs that complement the action.
But if James Bond isn’t your cup of tea — and you still want to witness some amazing improvisation skills — you’re in luck! GRIMprov is offering eight unique shows throughout Fringe, all based on different styles of improv the troupe has worked on over the past two years. Show themes include “Requiem for a DREAMprov”, “LEGOprov”, and an “X-Mas Special,” for example.
If you missed Friday’s show, however, and were hoping to witness the troupe’s interpretation of James Bond, don’t sweat it. GRIMprov’s ninth and final show at Fringe will be decided by the public through an online vote on their website. Go cast your vote.
GRIMprov Presents by GRIMprov is playing at BYOV B – Lunenberg Pub (14 Waller Street) Saturday June 22nd at 8:00pm; Sunday June 23rd at 8:00pm; Monday June 24th at 8:00pm; Tuesday June 25th at 8:00pm; Wednesday June 26th at 8:00pm; Friday June 28th at 8:00pm, Saturday June 29th at 8:00pm; and Sunday June 30th at 8:00pm. Tickets are $10.
