Improv-ductions: Maestro
The Show: Maestro
The Spiel: Twelve—or sometimes more—improvisers compete in a series of scenes and games scored by the audience on a scale of one to five. Those with higher scores advance to later rounds of the show; those with lower scores say “Goodbye” to the stage and “Hello” to a complementary bottle of Shiner Bock. Two directors keep things running along smoothly, dictate the path of the show, and assist the improvisers if need be. At the end, the player with the highest score is declared the Maestro and the recipient of the hallowed Canadian $5 bill (see below).
The History: English-born improv guru Keith Johnstone developed the format with the help of The Loose Moose Theatre Company of Calgary, Alberta (hence the Canadian fiver), though they spell it “Micetro.” Maestro is Austin’s longest-running improv show, which means there’s been plenty of time for Austin improvisers to argue whether the correct spelling is “Micetro” or “Maestro.”
The Draw: Analogous to the Johnstone-inspired “Whose Line Is It Anyway?,” Maestro is the best bet in town for improv virgins. It’s also the best way to get a sampling of performers from around town, as the rotating cast showcases improvisers of varying experience levels and theater affiliations.
The Time: Every Saturday at 10 pm, at the Hideout Theatre. This week’s directors are Chris Allen (Shot) and Justin Davis (The Starter Kit).
