Virtual Improv Show That Supports Charities In Tampa Bay

ST. PETERSBURG, FL — A Tampa Bay based virtual improvisation group kicks off a series of July charity-donation performances that are geared toward helping children and animals during the coronavirus pandemic.

ZaZu Productions, founded by Francine Wolf in 2005 created a virtual improv group that has professionally trained and experienced improv performers from around the globe such as London, England, and performers from the U.S. such as Ohio and locally in Tampa Bay.

"It's pretty fun regardless of the platform," said Natasha Samreny, a Tampa-based comedian. "I mostly love that we get together every week virtually and get to connect with other comedians. And I really dig that funds are going to a great cause."

Many actors are out of work due to the pandemic, and Wolf wanted to give them an opportunity to express their creative talents, so she created the virtual improv show "Improv'ing Children's Lives" Happy Hour Virtual Improv Show Fundraiser.

Wolf explained that watching a virtual improv show from the comfort of your home provides a more intimate experience versus sometimes when you attend an in-person show, you might not have the best view depending on where you're seated. The cast members are also performing from their homes as they practice social distancing.

"I wanted to grab an audience that was used to going to a pub or a show after work," said Wolf.

Some people might think vulgarity when they think of an improv show, however, since this improv group is doing charity based shows that benefit the Children's Home Network in Tampa, and Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital in St. Pete, Wolf said they are toning down the adult content.

"We are making it G-rated since this is a children's show because when a lot of people think improv, they think raunchy adult content, and not appropriate for children. We will not be doing any of that in the shows benefiting the children's charities."

The next virtual improv show is scheduled on Zoom at 6 p.m. on July 22, and they ask for donations that start at $10. This show benefits the programs that help children and families receiving care through Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital in St. Pete. The show is scheduled for an hour. If you would like to laugh in the comfort of your home and support a cause that helps children, visit Zazu Productions Charity Improv show. Donations are not required to see their show but are preferred since this is a fundraiser.

Future charity shows include not only Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital in St. Pete but also Project P.U.P., an organization in Seminole that takes well-behaved puppies and cats to visit rehab nursing homes, rehab centers, assisted living facilities and hospitals.

The improv cast includes: Bob Campbell, Ohio; Nicky Kennedy, UK; Natasha Samreny, Tampa; Leigh Shein, Bonita Springs; Lisa Vana, Ohio; Francine Wolf, Largo; Michèle Young, Tampa.

For the improv group's future charity show dates scheduled in July, follow this link.