The dice are thrown. They roll to a stop. The outcome is announced. Onlookers applaud their approval or groan in sympathy.
This isn't the craps table at the River Rock Casino. It's The at the . Billed as a live Dungeons & Dragons comedy experience, it's likely your only chance in Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»to lustily cheer the vanquishing of an orc by a battle axe-wielding elf barbarian.
Unveiled last February, the monthly show is the brainchild of Eric Fell, a veteran improv comedian. While flipping through some old D&D manuals, Fell was inspired to use the legendary role-playing game as the basis for an improv show. He then called prospective cast members, unsure what response he might get. I got, 'Holy crap. I would love to be a part of that.', laughs Fell.
When battling mythical adversaries (played by extremely game audience volunteers) on stage, each performer showcases the attributes that initially drew Fell to them. For instance, Ian Boothby writes The Simpsons and Futurama comics. So, I knew he would bring a lot of wit and wordplay, Fell explains. Shaun (Stewart) is a really good storyteller, so I knew he would help drive things forward. Meanwhile, Lauren McGibbon excels at creating characters, Allen Morrison lays waste to the frail, bookish wizard stereotype, and lends some sincerity to the silliness. The audience absolutely adores her the second she walks on the stage.
The fact their average audience is now well over 200 people has Fell stupidly proud of his creation. Furthermore, he loves the fact that Critical Hit rewards its regular attendees with a continuing storyline and character development, elements not commonly found in improv. Audience members also reap the rewards of Fell's experimental tendencies, which led him to appear (through the wonders of laptop technology) on the Rio's big screen as a 20-foot-tall red dragon during their March show.
I get bored really easily if I repeat myself, he admits. I want it to be a new experience for people every time.
The next Critical Hit Show is April 24 at the Rio Theatre.
