The Buttered Niblets, a student-run improvisational comedy group at Hopkins, has been entertaining audiences for nearly 40 years. Known for their engaging performances, the group hosts around six shows annually, showcasing their talent in venues ranging from lecture halls to the Arellano Theatre. Their unique approach combines spontaneity and audience interaction, making each performance a memorable experience.
During each show, the Buttered Niblets involve the audience by requesting suggestions for a word, location, relationship, or even a song lyric. This collaborative effort helps shape the scenes and plot developments, ensuring no two performances are alike. The group holds workshops at the beginning of the fall semester, inviting newcomers to explore the world of improv comedy and encouraging them to audition, despite most participants lacking prior experience.
Crafting Comedy Through Collaboration
The strength of the Buttered Niblets lies in their close-knit community of nine members. Although their practices prioritize fun and relaxation, they also dedicate significant time to honing their skills. Members rehearse daily during show weeks and meet twice a week during regular periods, focusing on the intricacies of scene creation with designated partners.
Lia Carroll, the group’s Secretary, highlights the fundamental role of listening in improvisation. In an interview with The News-Letter, she explained, “Improv is a lot more listening than people realize… you have to really make sure that you’re listening to every word that’s being said if you’re in a scene with somebody else.” This attentiveness helps avoid contradictions in established scenes, allowing for a more cohesive performance.
Jack Culligan, the President of the Buttered Niblets, emphasized the improvisational nature of their work, noting that what may appear as a mistake can often serve as inspiration for new comedic material. He recalled an instance when a former member mistakenly categorized a salamander as a fish, leading to a humorous fishing scene that delighted the audience. Such moments underline the group’s commitment to embracing spontaneity and creating an interactive experience.
Creating a Community Through Performance
The camaraderie among the members enhances their collaborative efforts and contributes to the overall atmosphere of their shows. Carroll expressed her appreciation for the traditions within the group, such as dining together before performances. “It sounds like a small thing, but that was built-in infrastructure that really allows for a real sense of community,” she said.
The Buttered Niblets take pride in their adaptability, performing in various settings with minimal requirements—often just two chairs. Carroll appreciates the flexibility this brings, stating that it reflects the essence of improv itself. Culligan pointed out the significance of performing in smaller venues, where the intimacy of the space fosters a stronger connection between the audience and the performers.
He explained, “With improv, I know that’s not true, because you ask for suggestions… When we do our shows, we’ll sit just in front of or even to the side of the people participating, to have that feel like one room instead of a bunch of people watching a wall with another reality happening behind it.” This closeness enriches the audience’s experience, making it feel personal and engaging.
Culligan also mentioned how he values all forms of audience interaction, including those that may not be entirely positive. He remarked, “I embrace even ‘boos’ from the audience, as all audience interactions are positively received.” He believes that every member of the Buttered Niblets contributes uniquely to the group’s dynamic, stating, “Everyone in that club is not normal… and I really appreciate that.”
As the Buttered Niblets continue to entertain and engage audiences at Hopkins, their commitment to improvisation and community remains at the heart of their mission.
