IMPROV Comedy Night to Benefit Artful IMPACT! Non-Profit Arts Programs

Artful IMPACT! , the Naperville area not-for-profit dedicated to making people stronger through the arts will be laughing it up at an evening of "Whose Line is it Anyway" style improvisational sketch comedy to benefit arts programs for underserved populations. "Artful IMPROV!", to be presented on Thursday July 17 at 7:30 pm, features members of The CSI Yellow Box Comedy Troupe. The event will be held at the madden Theatre at Wentz Concert Hall on the Campus of North Central College in Downtown Naperville. Cabaret seating, wine, beer, champagne and dessert buffet are included in the ticket price. Tables for 4 and 6 are also available, as well as Wine Bottle Table Service.

"Our goal is that your face hurts from laughing," says Troupe member and artful IMPACT! teaching artist Elic Bramlett. "What makes improv comedy so successful is that the audience is drawn into your stories-we don't rehearse anything, it's all made upon the spot. Everything is based on audience suggestion, so it's interactive and unpredictable. To a degree, the audience is in control. It's challenging and exhilarating for the performers and the audience leaves surprised and delighted."

Improvisation is one of the techniques employed by Artful IMPACT! to build communication, esteem, creativity, team and trust in all kinds of organizations, including youth groups, volunteer organizations and businesses. "As a learning tool, it unlocks parts of the brain that may never have been opened. It unites in a way that nothing else can," says Bramlett. "The common goal is simple- to be truthful, to listen and to cooperate. Really anyone can do it, and it fosters beneficial behavior that strengthens community, business and individuals, not just as entertainment, but in the real world."

Artful IMPROV! proceeds benefit Artful IMPACT! music, theatre and dance programs for children, young people and adults in the western suburbs and Chicago. Programs include after-school programs, camps and classes as well as workshops for businesses and organizations. Artful IMPACT! also hosts bi-annual Cabarets for a Cause, involving community members in performance and donating proceeds to area charities. With a regional focus and a global reach, Artful IMPACT! leverages creativity, talent, funding and energy to empower individuals, organizations and businesses through arts experience. Artful IMPACT! was established by a collaboration of the directors and faculty of The School of Performing Arts and a small group of passionate community leaders who realize the power of the arts. For further information and tickets to Artful IMPROV!, visit www.artfulimpact.org.