The Purdue University North Central student improv club, The Ranting Llamas, will present shows on Dec. 7 and 8 from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Library-Student-Faculty Building, Room 144. The public is invited. A $1 entrance fee will be donated to cancer research organizations.
The students' improv acting is made up on the spot. Sometimes a situation is given and the actors build off of it. It is usually done in a comedy aspect, which makes improv a fun activity for actors and non actors alike. A simple word, action or an idea can be the basis of a skit performed by one member of the group or the entire ensemble. Audience members are sometimes drawn into the comedy as they are asked to contribute one or two word inspirations for skits - concepts like throwing snowballs, riding a bus, walking a dog or staying awake in class can all be become the basis for skits.
The club members include President Justin Knoll, LaPorte; Vice President Devon Hogan, Chesterton; secretary/treasurer, Tara Sibo, LaCrosse; Drew Holt, Michigan City; Carly Houlton, of Michigan City; Tre Sibo, Porter; Leah Gladkowski , Wheaton, Ill.; Diane Rich, LaPorte and Tim Hofstra, Valparaiso; Nathan Werner of LaPorte; Neil Cohen, Michigan City; Bridget Dudley, Chesterton; Rachel Rogers, Michigan City; Justin Garetto, Hometown, Ill.; Chris Nototney, Michigan City and Dan Carson, Union Mills.
Photo: Devon Hogan, Dan Carson, Leah Gladkowki, Alex Parry, Neil Cohen (standing), Tim Hofstra, Rachel Rogers, Justin Garetto, Justin Knoll (upside down in center).