Yes, and…A peek at Hope College’s comedic improv club

Improvisational theatre, better known as “improv”, is a form of theatre in which most or all of what is performed is unplanned or unscripted, and is instead created spontaneously by the performers. Improv is often portrayed in the form of a comedy and heavily relies on and encourages audience participation. This art of quick wit and creativity is alive and well at Hope College through Vanderprov, the school’s one and only improv club, bringing these unscripted moments to the stage for nearly thirty years.

Vanderprov was founded by Eric Bruns (’00) in the late 1990s.  Since its founding, Vanderprov has continued to grow stronger.  The club consists of a diverse group of members ranging from freshmen to seniors, including Bruns’s own son, and each one of them is unique and humorous in their own way. It is a fun, stress-free environment that encourages its members to express themselves and be a part of a community.  The club thrives under the leadership of Kelsie O’Neill (’26), a club president known for her kind heart and sharp humor. Together, this small but mighty group works hard to bring laughter and fun to the students and faculty of Hope, creating memorable, impromptu performances. Whether a member is a seasoned improv performer or a newcomer, Vanderprov encourages creativity, self-expression and, most importantly, a good sense of humor.

The club meets on Tuesday and Thursday evenings every week and hosts performances once a month. Their most recent show was on Feb. 15.  Vanderprov members often encourage themes for their monthly shows, such as encouraging the audience to dress in Halloween costumes for their October performance.  The club also hosts a December show following Brinner, a beloved Hope tradition.  Each performance is about an hour long, and consists of various improv games such as “Hey, Dude!” and the new crowd favorite “Creepy Doll”. Admission is free, and laughter is guaranteed!  

For those who are interested in auditioning for Vanderprov, you are highly encouraged to do so!  The club holds auditions at the beginning of the Fall Semester.  Rather than a traditional, high-pressure audition, the process revolves around a series of improv games used to assess the auditionees’ strengths and talents.  It’s a fun and lighthearted process enjoyed by club members and newcomers alike, as well as an excellent way to meet other students who share a passion for comedy and improvisation.  As O’Neill puts it, “It’s really just a fun time of meeting new people and creating our new team.”

Ultimately, Vanderprov is more than just an improv club; it’s a community where students can bond over shared laughter and creativity. Whether performing on stage or just hanging out with fellow members, the club offers a supportive environment where students can thrive and explore new talents, creating lasting memories for years to come. If you’re looking for a fun and lighthearted way to get involved on campus, Vanderprov is the place to be.