"ON LAUGH SUPPORT... with Lorna Landvik" at Bryant Lake Bowl

What's a theater blogger to do in early January when theater companies are still on holiday break, or prepping new shows to open in mid to late January? Start the year laughing with Lorna Landvik at Bryant Lake Bowl. This is my third (non-consecutive) New Year hanging out with the Minnesota author and comedian, and as usual, a good time was had by all at the tiny theater behind a bowling alley (with delicious food and drink service before and during the show). Lorna's new show is called On Laugh Support, the premise being that the world is a mess, so we need laughter more than ever. I totally agree with Lorna's statement that if we spent more time laughing and singing together (Lorna loves a ukulele singalong, and so do I), instead of judging and belittling each other, the world would be a better place. On Laugh Support continues Fridays and Saturdays through the end of January, and you can check out Lorna's books here.

Lorna Landvik Presents "Pages and Stages" at Bryant Lake Bowl

I navigated road closures, the poorly plowed streets of Uptown, and parking challenges to see local author/performer Lorna Landvik's new show Pages and Stages at Bryant Lake Bowl last night. And it was worth it, because the release of laughing (and singing) with a group of people is a great way to enter the new year. Lorna has started off many a year with her show Party in the Rec Room at Bryant Lake Bowl, and this show is similar (but without the margaritas made on stage). Combining storytelling, improv, singalongs, and discussions of her books, Lorna entertains the crowd for 90 minutes. But more than that, she makes us feel part of the event. She's so personable and naturally funny, and very Minnesotan (despite her time spent in L.A., of which she has many great stories). She chats with the audience in a non-threatening way (but maybe don't sit in the front row if you don't want to be asked questions), asks for improv suggestions, and really makes an effort to reach out to everyone in BLB's little theater (even adjusting her mike when people in the back said they couldn't hear her). If you're a fan of her books, or of Party in the Rec Room, or just need a night of fun and congenial laughter, go see Lorna any Friday or Saturday in January.

Lorna Landvik's "Party in the Rec Room" at Bryant-Lake Bowl

It's the new year, and that means it's time for another Party in the Rec Room at Bryant-Lake Bowl! Local "author/entertainer/antic dealer" Lorna Landvik returns with her annual improv performance/party. I've not read her books or seen her show before but I've heard good things. Plus I love dinner and a 7pm 90-minute show at Bryant-Lake Bowl (doors open at 6, with dinner and drink service before and during the show). It was obvious last Saturday night that much of the audience were fans and returnees, and came ready to have fun! Lorna entertained with improvised scenes and songs using her particular brand of Minnesota humor, and her comfort on stage and genuine rapport with the audience made for a fun evening.