The Harlequins, a comedy-improv troupe and the oldest club on campus, have started their latest season strong. After auditions were held in early September, the group assembled their fall 2024 team and are ready to have fun and perform for the community.
According to the official Campbellsville University website, the Harlequins started more than 30 years ago as a theater club for theater majors and minors. It was later popularized by current Theatre Program Director Starr Garrett and was eventually turned into a comedy-improv troupe. Now, it’s not just for students who are in the theater department; it’s open for anyone who is interested in comedy, improv performance and theater alike.
Haley Fecher, known as “Biz,” started as a Harlequin in 2021 after a three-year hiatus from college. Her intent at the time was mostly to find a community, but also to perform with the comedy-improv group.
“Being a 24-year-old surrounded by 18 to 21-year-olds was daunting to say the least,” Fecher said. “But I really found so much love, support and acceptance within the group. I’m lucky to have gotten in on my first audition.”
Throughout her time as a Harlequin, Fecher has seen several directors come and go, as well as members. However, she sees this as an opportunity to grow.
“Harlequins has had four different directors in my time with the club,” Fecher said. “So, I’ve seen a lot of variation in how improv is taught, which has led to a confidence in the art form that I don’t think would be as strong had I not had that.”
Throughout the years, the Harlequins’ performances have been well-received by students, faculty and community members. However, many people are still unaware of the Harlequins’ existence, according to creative director Isaac Rogers.
“This year, in particular, we want to see how much publicity we can get and see how many people are interested and want to know about [the Harlequins],” Rogers said.
Rogers and technical director Bryce Osborne both added that while not all the details have been worked out yet, the group does plan to do more community outreach this semester and beyond. The Harlequins would like to also possibly perform at nursing homes or other similar spaces off campus “to bring joy and outstretch our arms to the community,” according to Rogers.
“We don’t want to be hiding in a dark room doing a secret improv club,” Rogers said. “We actually want to reach out to the community.”
However, at the same time, the Harlequins also emphasized the personal side of their art aside from community showcases and public performances.
“Your art is your art. Whatever legacy that leaves isn’t for you to decide or worry about,” Fecher said. “What people think in 100 years doesn’t make your art less or more meaningful, so long as it is meaningful to you. Art is always worth it.”
The Harlequins are planning their first fall performance for Oct. 17.
Follow the Harlequins Instagram account, @cvilleharlequins for updates on upcoming shows and events.
