Showstoppers! The Improvised Musical at Hoopla London Bridge Review
Hell Yeah! Improv Group
Written by Philip for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review. All views are our own
Hoopla Impro is celebrating a remarkable 20-year milestone, marked by a vibrant programme of events that showcase the very best of improvisational theatre.
The evening opened with a group of performers known as The Inflatables. Drawing inspiration—and occasionally direct lines—from the audience, they delivered a series of fast-paced improv games and short-form scenes. Each segment invited audience participation, cleverly allowing spectators to influence the direction of the action unfolding before them. The performers set the tone for the night with energy, wit, and precision, creating an atmosphere that was both engaging and effortlessly entertaining.
Next came Hell Yeah!, an all-female and non-binary troupe who offered a distinct approach to improvisation. Using a single audience anecdote as their starting point, they crafted an array of interconnected scenes and scenarios. The chosen story—of two friends whose bond began when one disastrously bleached his hair and was offered a red beret to hide it—evolved into a touching tale of friendship, culminating in them becoming each other’s best men. From hat shops to nightclub bathrooms to wedding breakfasts, Hell Yeah! spun this simple premise into a rich tapestry of moments. Their ability to shift seamlessly between characters, accents, and genres—without ever breaking to discuss the narrative—was captivating. It was a fascinating and highly accomplished performance.
The evening concluded with Showstoppers: The Improvised Musical, returning to Hoopla Impro at The Miller for a special “mini” performance as part of the anniversary celebrations—and what a delight it was.
For the uninitiated, the concept is as ambitious as it is exhilarating: a cast of exceptionally talented performers and musicians create an entirely original musical in real time, guided only by a handful of audience suggestions. These might include a setting, a selection of musical styles, and a title. From there, the story unfolds organically, with occasional guidance from a narrator to help shape the narrative arc.
Tonight’s show, titled Control Freak, was set in an air traffic control tower and inspired by the musical styles of Operation Mincemeat, Hamilton, and Hadestown. Watching the cast construct a coherent, engaging story on the spot was nothing short of electric. Improvisation alone is a formidable skill, but to layer it with music, choreography, and intricate harmonies is truly astonishing—and this performance delivered on all fronts.
The cast featured co-artistic director Pippa Evans, alongside Susan Harrison, Philip Pellew, Lucy Trodd, and Ruth Bratt, with co-founder Dylan Emery serving as narrator and guide. Musical accompaniment came from Emery on acoustic guitar, Alex Atty on percussion, and Duncan Walsh Atkins on keys and musical direction. Collectively, they are an extraordinarily talented ensemble, demonstrating not only exceptional skill in acting, singing, and musicianship, but the rare ability to do so spontaneously.
For two decades, Hoopla Impro has been a cornerstone of the improvisation scene in London. Based at The Miller, they continue to run classes, workshops, and performances, nurturing thousands of students each year while supporting the development of new shows. Many now-renowned companies and productions—including Showstoppers, Austentatious, and Mischief Theatre—trace their early roots back to Hoopla. Their contribution to the creative landscape, both in London and beyond, is immeasurable.
Be sure to explore Hoopla Impro’s full 20th Anniversary season—it promises an abundance of laughter, creativity, and joyous silliness.
Hoopla Impro’s 20th Anniversary Festival runs until summer 2026.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
