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 premier, Theatresports has spread to improv companies around the world and inspired many other shows (Whose Line is it Anyway?  for example).

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 can 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 from $5-$25, and may be purchased online here 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.