March 16, 2011

COURT JESTERS BACK IN (FUNNY) BUSINESS   

Christchurch’s iconic comedy show SCARED SCRIPTLESS returns to audiences this Saturday. The Court Jesters’ fast-paced, furiously funny brand of improvised entertainment will resume performances in the UCSA’s “big top” on Saturday nights at 7:30pm until further notice.

Ross Gumbley, Artistic Director of The Court Theatre, is proud that the Jesters can “lead the charge” to resume regular entertainment for the people of Christchurch. “SCARED SCRIPTLESS has been a Christchurch institution since 1990 and is the longest-running comedy show in New Zealand. We’re glad to be getting back to business.”

While The Arts Centre’s future is still uncertain, Court Jesters Manager Kirsty Gillespie is proud of the Jesters’ ability to “work anywhere, anytime”. Jester Jeff Clark, who organised a fundraiser with the Court Jesters in Nelson, agrees that “for us it’s a way to feeling normal again – people can enjoy being part of an audience; the performers can enjoy being part of a show.” 

Gillespie is especially thankful to the UCSA’s event coordinator Dan Pengelly, who offered the marquee on 90 Ilam Road as an alternative venue. “We’re not sure how long we’ll be ‘homeless’ for, so we’ll be doing Scriptless in a few different locations over the next few months. It’s good to have a troupe who are used to performing in a wide variety of situations and spaces – if you can’t come to us, we’ll come to you,” she adds.

As part of their “welcome back” to the people of Christchurch, SCARED SCRIPTLESS is offering discount tickets: student tickets are $10 and adult tickets are $15 (door sales only – cash sales preferred). Gillespie is glad that Christchurch residents can once again “come along, relax and enjoy a ‘cheap’ laugh”.

SCARED SCRIPTLESS will be staged at the “Big Top” in the UCSA carpark, 90 Ilam Road on Saturdays at 7:30pm from 19 March. Tickets $15 adults and $10 students (with ID). Visit www.courtjesters.co.nz for updates to venue locations and times.