Cascade Improv Podcast

Episode 8: Akhilesh Balachandran

Today we're speaking with Akhilesh Balachandran, an Indian National here in Seattle who rediscovered improv here in the States. We talk with him about teaching improv in Seattles Eastside community, experiencing improv as both a student and a teacher, the various schools and theaters in Seattle, long form vs. short form shows, the importance of representation, and his debut as an improv director with "What If?"

Episode 7: Tony Beeman

Our guest this week is Actor, Director, Poet, Teacher, Software Engineer, and the newest Artistic Director at Unexpected Productions, Tony Beeman. Join us for a conversation about genres, classic Star Trek, adjusting to their new role, and how they envision the improv scene in the PNW evolving in the coming years.Musical backing by Anomie Belle - https://anomiebelle.bandcamp.com/

Episode 6: Jill Farris

On this episode, we have a conversation with Unexpected Productions Artistic Director Jill Farris right before her retirement from the Market Theater. We take a walk down memory lane, explore improv internationally, different formats, trips with Randy Dixon, the joy of giving notes, and Jill shares her advice for improvisers who are auditioning for shows, troupes, and theater companies. Join us as we learn from Jill, and celebrate her contributions to the Seattle improv theater community!Musical backing by Anomie Belle - https://anomiebelle.bandcamp.com/

Episode 5: Paul and Chazz

A conversation between hosts, veteran improviser and teacher Chazz Kaskes speaks with student and beginning improviser Paul Furio about our histories, goals, philosophies, and observations on improv in the Pacific Northwest. We swing from serious to silly, real to hypothetical, all the time exploring what we bring to the stage and the microphone. Join us for 90 minutes of us totally not just slapping each other on the backs!

Episode 4: 2025 Holiday Greetings

Chazz, Paul, and a bunch of PNW Improvisers wish you all a very Happy Holiday Season!

Episode 3: Troy Mink

Our third episode features improviser, character actor, musician, and long term Seattle fixture Troy Mink. Troy tells stories about coming to Seattle, his transition to improvisational theater, the many characters he's created, taking risks, and shares stories of favorite performances from his storied history. When not performing on stage, Troy is a Social Worker in the Seattle area.Musical backing by Anomie Belle - https://anomiebelle.bandcamp.com/

Episode 2: Audrey Kohler

Our second episode is a charming conversation with improviser, poet, director, author, and world traveler Audrey Kohler. Join us as we talk about what brought Audrey to improv, her experiences in Alaska and LA, the art of slowing down, and her thoughts on narrative in the world of improvisational theater.Musical backing by Anomie Belle - https://anomiebelle.bandcamp.com/

Episode 1: Ron Hippe

Our first conversation with veteran improviser, actor, director, and musician Ron Hippe. We cover the history of Improv in the Pacific Northwest, the early days of Unexpected Productions, Almost Live, the fringe scene, and other topics related to his vast experience. Join us for our inaugural show with this funny and talented performer!Musical backing by Anomie Belle - https://anomiebelle.bandcamp.com/