Fraser Valley Stage (FVS) kicks off the fall with an original comedy/variety show, Monty Night Live!, which opens Oct. 12 for six evening performances.
There will be snippets of favourite comedies of the past, including Monty Python, Carol Burnett, Lucille Ball, Saturday Night Live, Mad TV and more.
“This particular show is an homage to the sketch comedy that has made us laugh through the decades,” says director Sharla Sauder, who was on the writing team with five others. “It’s loaded with classics as well as some reboots and fusions that our team put together.”
The goal was to have a real variety show, with characters, depth and parody. There will also be a three-piece band on stage, with musicians playing multiple instruments, and the songs will include a mix of different decades and genres.
“The cast is so musically talented, we had to make use of that,” added Sauder. “This show is a true variety show.”
FVS has partnered with the local Field House Brewing Company, featuring some of their most popular beer, alongside wine and cooler options.
Over the years, FVS has performed three other Half Monty pub nights, and Sauder has been cast in two of them.
“It was an absolute performer’s dream. I think making people laugh in a live show has to be the best feeling in the world,” she said.
Sauder said Monty Night Live! is not suitable for kids, but “it’s also not likely to offend your cool grandma.”
The show runs Oct. 12-14 and 19-21 at the Community Arts Addition, 2329 Crescent Way. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m.
Tickets are $25 (Thursday) and $30 (Friday and Saturday) plus fees. They are available at fraservalleystage.com or by calling 604-302-1235.