Comedy Championships Begin in Indy
Subscriber Benefit
As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowHundreds of improvisational comedy performers are in Indianapolis for the ComedySportz World Championship, beginning today at the Athenaeum. The event draws teams from throughout the United States and Europe. During a Studio(i) interview, CSz Indianapolis owner Ed Trout says the event is another sign of growth for the popular Mass Ave District, which has been the theater’s home for 17 years.
The professional improv comedy theater moved into its Mass Ave home in 1999. At the time, Trout says the neighborhood was saddled with a lot of empty store fronts and was "a lot less family friendly in feeling." Since then, it has been the site of major cultural activity, with the development of theaters, restaurants and housing options.
Trout says the growth is ongoing. Last month, an independent advisory committee recommended that Indianapolis Public Schools should move forward with a $260 million plan to redevelop the former Coca-Cola bottling plant on the north end of the neighborhood. The plan from Hendricks Commercial Properties LLC includes a hotel, a theater, more than 300 apartment and condo units and a large parking structure.
The four-night competition culminates with a championship match on Saturday, June 11. The teams are coming from ComedySportz troops in more than 20 cities. Over 250 professional improvisers will also have the opportunity to take part in workshops and volunteer in community events. A portion of the ticket sales during the World Championship will be donated to the Indiana State Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
You can find the match schedule and more information about the ComedySportz World Championship by clicking here.