Shared Stories Create Community: Muh Grog Zoo at TEDxTacoma

Muh Grog Zoo mostly identifies with being an Improvisational Theatre Cohort specializing in Improvised One Act Plays. Based out of Tacoma, they have been nurturing and sharing a different breed of improv around the Pacific Northwest since 2011. Instead of solely relying on games or humor, M. Zoo's specific Long-Form Improv depends on the openness, skill, heart, and imagination of the actors to spontaneously create an entire One Act Play.

Muh Grog Zoo players (Adam Utley, Dylan Twiner, Paul Richter, and Sam Duchin) believe that Improvisational Theatre can be just as moving, impactful, and meaningful for an audience as scripted theatre... and they do not disappoint.

Using believable characters, nuanced relationships, and unexpected situational humor, Muh Grog Zoo creates uproarious and touching theatre in the moment. Unique plots infused with organic storylines leave the audience wondering how this could possibly be improv. Muh Grog Zoo is dedicated to growing and pushing the limits of what Improvisational Theatre can do and mean. Consequently, the improv that they do has shaped the way they understand relationships, communication and connectivity with the world.

It is quite the engaging opportunity to be able to share with TED their inspired ideas on why and how their art form exists. The essence of Long Form Improv, according to M. Zoo, is effortless trust. It is conceived when dedicated improvisers come together to actively spark and nurture each other's' imaginations. Stories can be told just as effectively, emotions can be raised just as dramatically, and unintentional comedy can happen just as beautifully. By preventing the actor from over-thinking anything, we are left with honest reactions that continuously build engaging theatre. It is imperative that you jump in, completely blind, and absolutely trust the people you are performing with to catch you. In Muh Grog Zoo, they always do.


About TEDx, x = independently organized event
In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)