Orchestras around the world may be taking to the skies, but in New York City they are also taking to the streets.
Improv Everywhere describes itself as "a New York City-based prank collective that causes scenes of chaos and joy in public places."
A "prank collective?" Interesting name for what is in essence a group of practical jokers. Back in the day, we called our prank collectives "a bunch of drunken frat boys."
It's true, there is much that is sophomoric about Improv Everywhere, but the best of their performances are fresh and entertaining.
Here's a video of their latest event, involving an orchestra in search of a conductor.
The musicians performing this unusual reading of the overture to Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro are from Carnegie Hall's Ensemble ACJW. They do a good job of keeping up with the eccentric conducting styles of the volunteer "conductors."
Musicians from this group also participated in another prank, called "Instant Date," in which a random couple in the park was chosen to be wined and dined in truly elegant style, complete with live music.
Improv Everywhere was created in 2001 by Charlie Todd. According to the group's website, "Improv Everywhere has executed over 100 missions involving tens of thousands of undercover agents."
It's the job of an undercover agent to infiltrate a public space. Stealth is required, as is the ability to keep a straight face. Some undercover missions involve conference pranks and surprises, such as this surprisingly well-organized one from the GEL Conference.
I'd like to hear the full version of this some day on Broadway.
When Improv Everywhere isn't encouraging New Yorkers to join in shared experiences of absurdity, the group tours the world, giving talks and staging live events. Their next scheduled event is the Mp3 Experiment, happening in Los Angeles on October 5. Anyone interested in participating is encouraged to bring his or her iPhone and read the instructions.
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