Comedy group brings laughs, opportunity to Columbia scene
Presented at Benson theatre, Toast started the first half of the show with short games similar to ones on ABC Family's "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" Possibly the funniest was Lines From a Text Message, where two of the comedians enacted a sketch using an audience member's text messages. Toast also performed the game "That Sounds like a Song Cue." In this game, two comedians acted out a sketch about criminals. Throughout the discourse, either comedian shouted out "Well, that sounds like a song cue!" and the other comedian had to use whatever line they last spoke in a song using a certain musical style.
After a short intermission, Toast performed a long sketch using all of their members. Using the theme of pancakes, Toast started off with one scene that changed every few minutes. This lasted about 30 minutes and had the audience roaring with laughter.
Toast is open to both students at USC and members of the community. It began 10 years ago and is currently led by Russell Sanders, a 2007 USC graduate. Sanders holds a degree in theatre and has directed Toast for the last couple years.
Toast usually practices twice a week. During weeks that contain shows, the group holds practice every night leading up to their performance. After attending one of these rehearsals, it is evident that the members of Toast are not just present to fill their resumes. Each and every member has true comedic talent and is able to convey it to the audience.
Practices usually last about an hour and are made up of the games they perform during shows. After each game is practiced, the group members give their feedback to the members who performed and help reflect on the scenes. This way, members are given positive assessment and appreciation for their performance.
Students looking to audition for Toast Improv should follow them on Facebook. Tryouts are usually held in the fall semester during August or September and are much like practice. Not very strictly regimented, they usually consist of the games Toast plays during their actual shows and practices. In addition to having a naturally humorous disposition, hopefuls must demonstrate their potential and have a willingness to improve their skills.
The next Toast show is in April at Trustus Theatre. Search "Toast Improv" on Facebook for updates or look for posters around campus.
