"P.M.S.D."

In live improv performance, we will either approach certain sensitive topics with significant care or avoid them, primarily because our goal is to create a shared, positive, and inclusive experience for the audience. Audience members bring diverse life experiences to the theater, and seemingly innocent choices about topic or portrayal can inadvertently trigger past traumas, cause significant discomfort, or make them feel alienated or unwelcome, especially if the topic is trivialized, stereotyped, or handled without the necessary nuance and respect. When an audience member is pulled out of the moment by distress or offense, the shared reality of the scene breaks down, and the potential for genuine connection and humor is lost. Therefore, prioritizing audience safety and emotional well-being by being mindful of these potential pitfalls allows us to build trust and ensure everyone can fully engage with the performance without unnecessary distress, allowing the true joy and spontaneity of improv to flourish in a safe space.

Personal Trauma and Deep Suffering:

Suicide / Self-Harm

Sexual Assault / Rape

Child Abuse / Domestic Violence

Serious Illness / Medical Trauma

Eating Disorders

Mental Health and Addiction:

Mental Health Issues (avoiding casual or stereotypical use of terms like "crazy," "schizo," etc.).

Addiction / Substance Abuse

Systemic Oppression and Social Justice:

Genocide / Slavery / Holocaust

Harmful Stereotypes

Disability

Homelessness / Extreme Poverty

Divisive Beliefs and Personal Stances:

Politics

Religion

Abortion / Reproductive Rights