Arts & Culture in Portland

Brody Theater’s battle-tested improv artists throw themselves onstage and embrace unscripted chaos, creating hilarious shows for eager audiences. Friday's 8 p.m. slot is often occupied by "Micetro" or "Theatresports," both competitive improv-offs where observers offer suggestions to build the scenes from scratch. Sixteen improv gladiators stride in to "Micetro," which runs through March 25, but only one rises victorious after the audience votes their numbers down to a one-on-one joke duel. "Theatresports" splits performers into two teams who issue challenges to each other, using audience suggestions to out-funny their opponents. Unlike "Micetro," "Theatresports" is scored by Brody's judges, to whom the audience should direct boos and marriage proposals. Crowds can carbo-load their chuckle muscles with a selection of food and drinks, including wraps (starting at $6), beers (starting at $2.75), and wine (starting at $4).