Auditions for Donkey Hotey Improv Troupe were held on Tuesday, September 5, and the comical improvisers underwent a fun yet rigorous process in their tryouts. The audition process began with some warmup games as a way to get the mind going and make sure everyone is ready. Troupe leader Matt Smith has auditioners circle up during warmups to keep things interactive and energetic. After this, the troupe played a variety of improv games as a way to get everyone used to thinking on their feet. One of the games Smith had auditioners play is called ‘freeze’, which involves 2 improvisers acting out scenarios until someone calls out “freeze”, at which point a new improviser jumps in and picks up where the others left off.

The games ensure that everyone can think fast and work off of and build on other peoples’ ideas. According to Smith, improv is about more than being funny; it’s working together and putting in the effort that counts. The shows that Donkey Hotey Improv Troupe puts on consists of a variety of improv games, and there is never a dull moment. The troupe puts on several shows throughout the school year, so make sure to attend one or two to get a good laugh and to check out what the talented improvisers have to offer. 

The cast of the 2023-2024 Donkey Hotey Improv Troupe is comprised of Morgan Hanson, Carter Johnson, Andrew Schwengler, Hawa Kerizareth, Briar Olson, Ky Farmen, Michael Suda, Terth Tuel, Lydia Hestdalen, Ayanna Poitra, Jonas Jensrud, Charlie Kesler, Reid Jensen, Eddie Selvig, Kyle Sjolin, Molly Thorsvig, Jade Ertelt, Thomas Hudson, Xyn, and Ava Gale.