Meet a Comedy Troupe: Pink Slip

Though the sketch troupe Pink Slip may be new around town, its future looks rosy with a scheduled performance at this summer’s Montreal Sketch Comedy Festival and this month’s Sketch Com-Ageddon in Toronto. In light of the troupe’s show tomorrow night at the Rivoli (emceed by comedian Debra DiGiovanni), we caught up with cast member Alan Kliffer to chat about dream guests and a lascivious home video shot in Montreal.

Pink Slip’s an interesting name for a troupe. Any significance behind it?
We chose it because we like multiple meanings and sexy mystery. 

How did your troupe get together?
We first met at The Second City in The Conservatory Program and quickly fell in love with one another. Even though we only had our first show in January, we’re so close that, let’s just say, we’ve been naked together a good amount of times.

What can people expect from seeing your show?
It’s observational comedy meets dirty nonsense, but is always playful. I think, above all, you can expect to meet your soul mate at our show. In fact, we insist. 

How would you describe the style of your show?
Our show is fast paced and tight. Observational, but we hope never heavy-handed. When we step out on the stage, we always bring our own brand of silly.  

Most outlandish performance to date?
Well, we haven’t been together too long to have had too many outlandish performances, but one that comes to mind involves a mink, a white canvas sheet, some partial nudity and a loft in Montreal. Video to come.

Dream guest performer?
Oy! This is a difficult thing to agree on. I would like Judy Garland reincarnated; Nicole would like Tina Fey, because she’s honest (though unoriginal); Nate would want Kristen Wiig, or any ghost — like any ghost at all — and Flick would like Idina Menzel (but then wouldn’t be able to keep her sh*t together onstage).


The details

Year established: 2011
Cast members: Nate Callens, Nicole Elsasser, Alan Kliffer and Felicity Penman
Influences: The Second City
Catch them at: Rivoli, 334 Queen St. W., 416-977-5082, June 5

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