The Rat Pack Returns

August 12th, 2008 by maria vrobel · No Comments

I will be out of town on this upcoming August 15th weekend. But, if I were to stay in town, I would definitely head over to the Fetterly Playhouse to catch a young and upcoming group of trained comedians. At five dollars admission, you cannot go wrong. “Rats in The Alley” will be performing their lively improvisational comedy show.

Fortunately, I had the opportunity to catch their regular show at Uncle Bong’s Pizzeria in Vacaville. I was impressed by their ability to create humor on a whim’s notice. The audience cannot predict what will happen, but surely you can predict a great time with these young group of lads. In times of Vallejo bankruptcy, we can all use the comic relief.

Most of the “Rats” have completed professional training with Solano Community College’s Actors Training Program. I have seen some of them in other theatre productions. For instance, Trevor Wright lends the same outstanding stage appeal as seen in his appearances at Dreamweaver’s Theatre (Napa) and Solano Community Theatre. He continually comes up with clever antics and impressions during the show. His consistency never lets us down, either. Wright has a genius talent for comedy.

John Crosthwaite led the troupe through various improvisational games. He would briefly describe the game to the audience. Then, he encouraged the audience to shout out suggestions for time, place, or themes. The performers were quick on their feet. They each performed their own rendition of the movie actor, Christopher Walken. One of the performers mentioned that they have to audition to be in the troupe. He, also, added that they spend time studying in workshops and classes. I was not surprised to hear this.

So, if you are on a budget or even mega-rich, head over to the Fetterly this weekend. These young guys deserve and need our support. They provide much needed laughter in our fair city of Vallejo.

The Rats Live! Sketch & Variety Show, 8:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday, August 15-16 $5