The Buttered Niblets, a student-run improvisational comedy group at Hopkins, have been entertaining audiences for nearly 40 years. Known for their engaging performances, they deliver around six shows each year, captivating audiences in venues ranging from lecture halls to the Arellano Theatre. Their unique blend of humor and audience interaction has made them a staple of campus life.
Improv Comedy: A Unique Art Form
At each performance, the Buttered Niblets showcase their improvisational skills by incorporating audience suggestions into their scenes. This interactive approach allows for a dynamic experience, as the group invites attendees to provide words, locations, relationships, or even song lyrics as inspiration for their skits. The result is a fresh and unpredictable performance that keeps the audience on their toes.
To foster new talent, the Buttered Niblets host workshops at the beginning of each fall semester. These sessions welcome newcomers, many of whom have little to no prior improv experience, encouraging them to audition for the group. With a current roster of nine members, the Buttered Niblets cultivate a close-knit community that balances fun with dedication. During show weeks, members practice daily, while rehearsals occur twice a week during non-show periods.
Lia Carroll, the group’s Secretary, emphasizes the importance of deep listening in improv. “People don’t realize that improv is a lot more listening than they think,” she explained in an interview with The News-Letter. “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 to avoid contradicting their setup.”
President Jack Culligan reassures that mistakes are often opportunities for humor. He recalled a past performance where a member humorously misidentified a salamander as a fish, leading to a comical fishing scene suggested by an audience member. Such instances highlight the group’s ability to turn unexpected moments into comedic gold.
Building Community Through Laughter
The Buttered Niblets not only focus on their craft but also prioritize the camaraderie among members. Carroll noted the significance of traditions within the group, such as dining together before shows, which fosters a sense of community. “It sounds like a small thing, but that built-in infrastructure really allows for a real sense of community,” she shared.
Their versatility in performing across various venues also enhances their appeal. Carroll pointed out that they require minimal setup—often just two chairs—to create an engaging performance space. This adaptability reflects the essence of improv, making it accessible and enjoyable in any setting.
Culligan highlighted the advantages of smaller venues, where the relationship between the audience and performers becomes intimate. He explained that the interactive nature of improv breaks down barriers, allowing for a more personal connection. “With improv, you ask for suggestions, and sometimes people go into the audience,” he said. “It feels like one room instead of a bunch of people watching a wall with another reality happening behind it.”
Embracing audience reactions, even when met with “boos,” is part of the experience for the Buttered Niblets. Culligan appreciates the diverse humor that each member brings to the table, saying, “Everyone in that club is not normal […] And I really appreciate that. I think that’s valuable.”
In a landscape where entertainment often feels distant, the Buttered Niblets continue to bring laughter and connection to the Hopkins community. Through their dedication to improv and their strong community spirit, they ensure that comedy remains an integral part of campus life.
