A Script at Second City?

By Suzy Evans in Arts & Entertainment on May 30, 2009 5:45PM

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.