Old Boys share laughs with JMC Improv group

The JMC Improv group has been up and running for a few weeks now, building on the energy and momentum from last year, when ŌSIC (Ōtepoti Secondary Improv Club) was formed with other Dunedin Secondary Schools down at Te Whare o Rukutia in the central city.

Senior students Reid Penwarden, Ben Eckhoff, and Tee Kiatwattanakorn have taken up the reins this year to help mentor the junior members of our Improv group, as they were members of ŌSIC last year. 

On Tuesday 27th February we were treated to a visit by old boys and former drama students, Tama Alexander and Finlay Tomkins, who were both JMC Improv members themselves. As a Year 11 student, Tama was actually part of the legendary 2019 JMC Improv group who represented Dunedin at the South Island Theatresports Final at The Court Theatre, who beat out schools from around Te Wai Pounamu to take the cup. In fact, we were the first team to take the cup outside of Canterbury since 1989. No mean feat!

After some group warm-ups, Tama and Finlay enjoyed playing alongside the students in such games as Space Jump, Slow-Motion Commentary, and New Choice. A lot of laughs were had by all. 

New Zealand's youngest successful stand-up comedian, Tama Alexander is bringing his second solo show to the Dunedin stage in his performance of Breatha, after the paramount success of his debut sold out, award-winning show Fresher. 

Some of Tama's accolades include:

•  WINNER - Dunedin's Favourite Comedian (Dunedin Fringe 2023) 
•  WINNER - Outstanding Emerging Talent (Dunedin Fringe 2023)
•  WINNER - Best Newcomer (NZ Comedy Guild 2023)

... And many more

Tama's second year at university was a rollercoaster to say the least: a year full of triumph, failure, love, and loss. During that year he had entertained audiences all over the country with stories, songs and youthful charm that leaves crowds wanting more.

Breatha is a collection of Tama’s favourite moments from what he has been led to believe is the “best time of his life”, but he certainly feels it is far from it!

A show full of laughter, songs, and awkwardness, this is a show definitely not to miss! Suitable for audiences aged 16 and over. 

We wish him well for his upcoming Fringe Festival show, Breatha! Chookas, Tama! We are so proud of you. 

For more details on the show, Breatha, head to the Fringe Festival website here. 

One of our other former McGlashan students, James Mustapic, is also coming south next month for the Fringe Fest. The winner of Celebrity Treasure Island 2023 will be back in Dunedin with a brand new stand-up show. James also has a new TVNZ show premiering on TV2 very soon, entitled James Must-a-pick his Mum a Man. You can catch episodes online via this link. 

You can find details to James' Fringe Festival show here.

Check out hilarious photos from today's lunchtime Improv session below...

If you would like to join us... there is still time. Come to the Drama room on Tuesday lunchtimes in the basement level of the ELC building. Bring your lunch...  and a sense of humour!