Varsity launches new era of live comedy

The Varsity is launching a new era of live comedy with the debut of Varsity Improv, an original programming series dedicated to improvisational theater. The show premieres Saturday, April 4 at 8 p.m., introducing audiences to both short-form and long-form improv performed by local comedians.

Designed to complement the Varsity’s existing residency of the high school troupe Terriers LIVE, Varsity Improv extends the theater’s offerings by showcasing a broader range of comedic styles and voices from the Southern Illinois community.

The hour-long show will be hosted by Under Maintenance, a newly formed local ensemble featuring Allie Brown, Amaree Davis, Connor Gulbrandsen, Macklen Makhloghi, Isabel Pohlman, and Ethan Pennington. The group blends veteran performers with emerging talent, united by a shared passion for improv.

“Improv isn’t just funny,” said Makhloghi, a Los Angeles transplant and volunteer coach for Carbondale Community High School’s after-school improv club. “It’s vibrant, joyful and inclusive. Southern Illinois deserves consistent, affordable access to this kind of unifying art form.”

Performances will feature a dynamic mix of formats, including fast-paced improv games, long-form storytelling, sketch comedy and audience interaction, ensuring that each and every show is unique.

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Host or Publisher The Varsity Center