Theatresports™ Duos is a fast paced show – two teams of improvisers play short improvised scenes that are immediately scored by 3 Olympic-style judges, sometimes leading to boos from the crowd. Though the content is theatre, often funny and surprising, occasionally poignant, the show feels like a sporting event.

That’s intentional; Theatresports™ was created in 1977 by Keith Johnstone to bring the energy of a wrestling match to live theatre. In the nearly fifty years since its premiere, Theatresports™ has spread to improv companies around the world and inspired many other shows, including Whose Line is it Anyway?.

BATS Improv, where Theatresports™ Duos is playing on Saturdays in March, was founded in 1986 as Bay Area TheatreSports, an improv company devoted to playing Theatresports™. Many members of the BATS Company, including Rebecca Stockley (co-director of Theatresports Duos), also had the privilege of studying with Keith Johnstone, and will bring his original inspiration to the show.

For Theatresports™ Duos, the two-player teams will focus Theatresports™ through the lens of what they want in their scenes. According to Jerry Ruoti, the co-director of the format, “If a team enjoys doing scenes that have surprises in them, or just singing, then I want them to have agency to do that.” If you’re looking for a theater experience that welcomes booing, cheering, and yelling things in general, Theatresports™ Duos is the show for you!

Tickets for Theatresports™ Duos range from $5-$25, and may be purchased online or in person beginning half-hour before the performance, subject to availability. All performances take place in BATS Bayfront Theatre in the historic Landmark Building B on the Fort Mason campus in San Francisco. Paid parking is available in the adjoining lot.

Directed by Rebecca Stockley and Jerry Ruoti

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Saturday 3/29 8pm

Tickets: $20 Student/ Senior $25 for General Admission

Weekend Special: Buy 1 get 1 free on all beverages on the Closing Night of BATS Shows*

(Good for all non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks for 21+ with valid ID. Must consume onsite before closing time. Free beverage is good for equal or less value)

International Improv Experts: Tim Orr and Basel Al-Naffouri

April Fools: John Remak and Karen Brelsford

Hosted by Rebecca Stockley