That big Texas reputation for grandiosity now can include being broadminded, as the Austin Sketch Festival has selected Milwaukee’s all-female sketch comedy troupe to perform in its gala on Memorial Day weekend.
Broadminded is scheduled to display its witty insights alongside sketch groups from across the country at the Austin fest May 26-29.
“Performing at sketch festivals in other cities was definitely one of our goals we set as a group,” says Anne Graff LaDisa, of Broadminded. “We’ve performed at the Chicago Sketchfest and the Milwaukee Comedy Festival, and I think it’s great to meet and see groups from other cities perform. Plus, it’ll be a fun road trip for us. I’ve never been to Austin, but I hear it’s a cool city with an active comedy scene.”
Out-of-town festivals let Broadminded reach new audiences and offer opportunities to learn and return with new ideas, Melissa Kingston says.
“We are really excited about testing our material in a different market,” Melissa says. “Is our stuff accessible outside the thoughtful and informed Milwaukee community? I think it is, but Austin will certainly be a test.”
Beyond Austin, Broadminded has definite plans for a theater nearer you.
The group – which includes Anne, Melissa, Stacy Babl and Megan McGee – will perform its new show, “Blood is Thicker than Liquor,” in June, at the Alchemist Theatre, 2569 S. Kinnickinnic Ave.
Broadminded says the show will feature comedic sketches and videos dealing with assorted family conflicts. From the news release: “This promises to be the most stress-free, guilt-free and laughter-filled family gathering you have ever experienced.”
Show times: 8 p.m., June 16, 23, 24, and 25; 4 p.m. Sunday June 26.
Admission: $10
For more information and to order tickets, Click Here.
While we’re queuing up at the Alchemist, good luck to our Broadminded travelers.
“Hopefully, we can represent Milwaukee well!” Anne says.
To which, Melissa adds, “I hope we can let people in Austin know that Milwaukee has a scene and is a place for comedy. We hope we will be great ambassadors for Milwaukee.”
Punk!!!