Baltimore improv marathon aims to set unofficial world record

On December 8th, the non-profit Baltimore Improv Group fundraiser takes the form of Winter WonderYesAnd. The show is a winter themed, expanded universe, improv-marathon featuring over 12 hours of uninterrupted, sidesplitting improv comedy.

Baltimore Improv Group, often known as BIG, is a non-profit that entertains with over 800 live shows each year.

The main event of the fundraiser comes at 8 pm. The mad brainchild of BIG house performer, Geoff Taylor is Billed as The BIGgest Scene Ever. Geoff will take to the stage with Baltimore's largest improv team, The Hive. Their goal is to break the unofficial, unconfirmed world record for the most improvisers in one improv scene. Geoff insists this number is 73. He'll be looking to bring 74 improvisers into one scene.

There are a variety of fantastic ways to support improv. The pledge campaign for The BIGgest Scene Ever is similar to a walkathon. Instead of raising money per mile, the show will be raising money per performer on stage.

There are prizes for top campaign leaders and general participation thank yous within a week.

Baltimore Improv Group has an annual audience of over 27,000 people. Over 100 regular performers and volunteers present audiences with live comedy shows every night of the week at The BIG Theater in the Station North Arts & Entertainment District.

“I loved the Baltimore Improv Group!” said Abby Newman, a local college student who attended a recent show at the theater. “They're very talented and know how to keep a crowd involved and entertained””

Their fundraiser goal this year is to raise $20,000. The non-profit secured $10,000 in matching gifts. That means 50% of the theater's goal has been met provided that they raise the other 50%.

Every dollar you give will count twice. Matching gifts are coming from generous donations provided by the Baltimore Improv Group’s non-profit board or directors and their extended community of donors.

The first $14,000 raised is earmarked to keep all shows free in 2020. Funds will pay for rent, utilities, house management, tech and general supplies.

The next $6,000 will be earmarked for strategic improvements at The BIG Theater.

This includes BIG's facade improvement program with new windows, big bright signs, a much nicer and suitable access ramp.

The also less dramatic improvements, like expanded shelves for our prop room and other storage closets, more sound-resistant doors for the theater, and new tiles for the kitchen.

“Originally, I signed on for some classes ,socializing being my objective,” said Robert Ellison who is a student taking improv comedy classes at the non-profit.

“I soon learned that this organization has higher aims. Their goals concentrate on community and giving. BIG welcomes everyone to join forces in promoting goodwill via improv.”

Visit The BIG Theater at 1727 N Charles St., Baltimore, MD on Sunday December 8th. For more information, visit bigimprov.org/wonderyesand.