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Script is not the first word that comes to mind when you think about improv, but Second City’s training center likes to try new things. Hence the brand-new scripted musical, The Timeless Tale of New Portsmouth. Set in 1876, the show explores the life of New Englanders who are stuck in their ways and refuse to move into the future. (Maybe they should take up blogging…) While we don’t know much about the music other than there’s a sea shanty and an angry love song, we’re certain it won't be like Jersey Boys or Wicked, unless it's a parody.
Although the show is scripted, Second City didn’t completely abandon its improv specialty. Students created the show using improvisation techniques at part of the Music Improv Program, and like all good live theater, we’re sure there’s an unscripted line or action every once in a while.
The show runs Sunday nights through June 28 at Donny's Skybox Theatre as a double header with Second City’s Infinite Sundaes. (This show does have improv - or singprov - if you’re looking for some more spontaneity.) Tickets are $10 or $8 for students and can be purchased here. Second City is located at 1616 N. Wells Street.
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Actually, it's my understanding that all SC shows are like this. Their philosophy is that improv should be used as a writing tool, not as the end product.
sea shanty and angry love songs? did the decemberists write this?
[that would not be a bad thing if they did]
Correct, Chris F. Every Second City show is scripted, using improv as a tool for its development, with occasional moments of improv using audience suggestions. That said, the Training Center stage mentioned here (Donny's Skybox) does host both improv groups and sketch groups. But overall, yes, scripted sketch comedy is the house specialty.