For newcomers to the Mixed Signals’ improvisational comedy act, the full house and packed aisles at the group’s first show of the year must have been a good sign. At about 8 p.m. Sunday night, the seven performers rushed into the Library Auditorium and were greeted with eager applause that lasted all evening.
The talented cast performed a variety of sketches that included “party quirks” and “border cop,” during which players worked to determine secretly-assigned roles based on the humorous clues of others. Astonishingly enough, junior English major Steven Avigliano was able to correctly guess that he “smuggled drugs in an inappropriate location, while sneaking away to the future with Aunt Jemima, his accomplice.”
Senior communication studies major Elaine White was even able to pinpoint the quirk of her party guest – the “Zombie Johnny Apple Seed.” Needless to say, the performers were not only hilarious, but also fearless and talented – able to think of people, places and things at the spur of the moment in front of a large crowd of 100 or more.
“I always enjoy seeing the gigs,” sophomore history and international studies major Noah Franc said. “They’ve got a lot of talent, very witty. All their shows are a treat.”
In another game, the Signals played around with a eulogy that included none other than the College’s infamous “Pixels.” Another infamous Jersey character, Snooki of MTV’s “Jersey Shore,” took center stage during a skit, arriving at a child’s seemingly innocent birthday party.
Troupe members obliterated the word “politically correct” when they played the game “Le Swipe.” Memorable quotes from the game included “we are just Aryans… you know – white/other,” and “I feel like our purpose in life is to be ridden by the men.” Each humorous quip was greeted by enthusiastic laughter from the crowd. By the end of the night, all seven performers had proven their wit and supreme comedic skills.
“The show was so funny! I am so impressed by the talent,” freshman biomedical engineering major Pamela Hitscherich said.
The Mixed Signals will next perform at 8 p.m. on Feb. 21, returning to the Library Auditorium. The cast has dubbed the event “Formal Night” and is sure to delight with its talent and attire.
