“No fear, Improveneers,” could be heard chanted before every show of the world’s first all-Down syndrome improv troupe, and this weekend Montrealers are set to witness this moment as they make their Just For Laughs Festival debut.
“I’m just so proud that I get to be here with my team, be with my friends, my family, my brother and mother,” said Henry Snow, comedian part of The Improvaneers. “And most importantly, my father.”
Henry’s dad, Rob Snow, began the group back in 2018 — inspired by Henry himself.
“There were 25 individuals with Down syndrome who showed up for the audition. I cast 10 of them,” explained Rob. “We’re at seven who’ve been with us over 100 shows throughout North America.”
“How can I not be (proud)? I mean, they’ve been with us every step of the way,” he added.
Their appearance at the Just For Laughs (JFL) festival is believed to be the first by a comedy troupe composed entirely of performers with developmental disabilities, the group said in a press release.
They added that what began as an innovative training program all those years ago has evolved into this performing troupe.
From Ohio, United States, the team uses improvisation to build communication, confidence, social skills, and independence among individuals with developmental disabilities.
“I am excited. This is my first time in Montreal, Canada,” said Nick Doyle, comedian part of The Improvaneers. “The reason why I’m proud is because I want to make every Canadian people to laugh their faces off this weekend.”
Their shows, not scripted. Making every performance unique.
“It’s okay to be nervous at first,” explained Audrey Costilow, another talented member of The Improvaneers. “Us as a team, we always have each other’s backs.”
“I’m not just proud of being a part of this team,” she added. “I’m also happy to be a part of something different than being in my theater. The theater I used to do back in my high school theater days. Improv is also another big step forward.”
Their performance at JFL is also set to be featured in an upcoming documentary called “The Improvaneers.”
The film is expected to debut on streaming platforms in early 2027, showcasing the troupe’s rise to one of comedy’s most respected stages.
“JFL is one of the most respected comedy festivals in the world,” said Rob. “For our performers to be invited to share the stage with some of the best comedic talent in North America is both an incredible honour and a powerful statement about what people with developmental disabilities can achieve when given the opportunity.”
“Just wait ‘til we hit the stage, you’ve never seen anything like us!” added Doyle. “We’ve worked really hard, and I’m excited to show everyone what we can do.”
Festival goers can catch The Improveneers making their JFL debut at Theatre St Catherine at 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 25.
Tickets are available here.
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