Tantrum: It's fun to misbehave

Democracy kicks ass.

2009-08-20T20:43:00.000-07:00

Like Tantrum? You can vote us onto KMBC's A-List by clicking here. Love us? Leave a review...a comment...a star rating. We love to hear what you think. For example, guest monologist Jim Howard accuses us of "utter shamelessness." Fan Stacey (who writes an amazing blog about romance noveling and writing in general) says "it feels great to laugh for like 2 hours straight." Emily, an inspiringly rabid localvore, proclaims "They're hilarious! Every time!" Tom sez "fresh mouthbreath!" And from Massive Tassel, who should know: "They are built of super-laser-robot-parts and they smell like grape soda."

We love our fans, and will figure out some way (seriously!) to make it up to you. Thanks for your support!

Next up: Tantrum at the KC Improv Festival

2009-08-17T21:44:00.000-07:00

First of all, thanks to everybody who came out to see Jim Howard with Tantrum last weekend! (And to all of you who stopped by for the secret discount password—it's our way of letting you know we appreciate our regulars.)

Tantrum's next show is the usual Second Friday at 8pm, but this time we'll be performing as part of the 9: The KC Improv Festival at the Off Center Theater. We'll share the spotlight with Comedy City, Messing with a Friend (featuring top Chicago improvisers Susan Messing and Mark Sutton) and Brother Love's Traveling Salvation Show, with KC's Dan Walsh and Jeff Drake. We'll be joined by guest monologist Steve Jones, fellow player in ComedyCity, 2 Much Duck, Lighten Up and Funny Outfit.

Other shows in September:
—Also at the festival, catch Thunderdome Thursday, featuring Spite (Trish, Nikki & Megan) and Rob's team, Loaded Dice.
—Rob & Trish compete against each other in Improv Thunderdome, Season 4, Round 3, Saturday, Sept. 19, at 8pm at the Westport Coffeehouse.
—Spite and Loaded Dice play nice on Friday, Sept. 25, at 8pm at the Westport Coffeehouse.

Want the latest news (including special discounts) as it happens? Become a fan on Facebook.
Or follow us on Twitter: TantrumKC

7 Questions for Jim Howard: Megan wants to know

2009-08-13T21:52:00.000-07:00

NOTE: We want to get to know our guest monologists even better before the show. Each member of Tantrum gets to ask a question—the same one every time—to our special guests, who can answer them in as much or as little detail as they'd like.

Megan wants to know: What makes you laugh out loud? Sublime stupidity. The perfect, goofy, left-field thing at the perfect, wrong moment. The kind of thing you guys do all the time.

Why the hell would you miss this? What's WRONG with you?
Tantrum with Special Guest Jim Howard
Second Fridays at the Westport Coffeehouse
4010 Pennsylvania • 816-678-8886 for reservations
Friday, August 14 • 8pm • Tickets: $10
May contain adult material.

SECRET VIRTUAL COUPON FOR OUR FAVORITE PEOPLE

2009-08-11T18:30:00.000-07:00

Want $2 off a single ticket—or 2-for-1 admission if you bring a friend to this Friday's Tantrum show?

When you get to the box office, say the secret phrase: "Massive Tassel."

7 Questions for Jim Howard: Michael wants to know

2009-08-11T06:17:00.000-07:00

NOTE: We want to get to know our guest monologists even better before the show. Each member of Tantrum gets to ask a question—the same one every time—to our special guests, who can answer them in as much or as little detail as they'd like.

Michael wants to know: What's the best decision you ever made? To woo my wee spousette, back when it looked very dubious (office romance, 9-year age difference, me with two kids from a failed marriage). Somehow we beat the odds.

There's still time...if you hurry...
Tantrum with Special Guest Jim Howard
Second Fridays at the Westport Coffeehouse
4010 Pennsylvania • 816-678-8886 for reservations
Friday, August 14 • 8pm • Tickets: $10
May contain adult material.

7 Questions for Jim Howard: Pete wants to know

2009-08-09T12:59:00.000-07:00

Bobbie Gentry's "Ode to Billie Joe," for the title song, which I still find weirdly enchanting. But the rest of the album sucked, and I remember suffering acute buyer's remorse. Again: bewildered, disappointed.

There's still time to make reservations...
Tantrum with Special Guest Jim Howard
Second Fridays at the Westport Coffeehouse
4010 Pennsylvania • 816-678-8886 for reservations
Friday, August 14 • 8pm • Tickets: $10
May contain adult material.

7 Questions for Jim Howard: Josh wants to know

2009-08-05T11:24:00.000-07:00

NOTE: We want to get to know our guest monologists even better before the show. Each member of Tantrum gets to ask a question—the same one every time—to our special guests, who can answer them in as much or as little detail as they'd like.

Josh wants to know: What was your most unusual job?
My first job remains my most unusual: handing out burlap bags to people riding the giant slide behind a head shop/food co-op. $1.35 an hour. In bad weather, I did odd jobs inside: stocked shelves, swept up around the bulk food bins--and sold bongs, Zig Zag papers, Kama Sutra oil, etc. I was 13. I had no idea what these things were until a couple of years later.

Find out more about Jim
Tantrum with Special Guest Jim Howard
Second Fridays at the Westport Coffeehouse
4010 Pennsylvania • 816-678-8886 for reservations
Friday, August 14 • 8pm • Tickets: $10
May contain adult material.

7 Questions for Jim Howard: Rob, Nikki and Trish want to know...

2009-08-03T17:39:00.000-07:00

NOTE: We want to get to know our guest monologists even better before the show. So we're introducing a brand new feature—7 Questions. Each member of Tantrum gets to ask a question—the same one every time—to our special guests, who can answer them in as much or as little detail as they'd like.

Rob wants to know: What's your first memory?
Sitting on my mom's lap in the front seat of the family Rambler. She lifted me up so I could look over the dashboard. I thought I was going to see our new house, which was being built. They'd just broken ground, I guess. Our new house was a big pile of dirt? I was three, and already bewildered and disappointed by life.

Nikki wants to know: What's the best thing you got away with as a kid?
If "kid" extends to teenagerhood, the best thing I got away with was unprotected sex. Not as much of it as I would have liked, but more than enough to have ruined my life and several others. Worked out well, though. I mean, I'm sure the sex was lousy. But it seemed great at the time.

Trish wants to know: What weird thing scares the hell out you?
People who still think Bush and Cheney did a great job. Also, realizing that I've been a parent for 30 years, and the day-to-day-ness of it won't let up for another 10 or so. I don't get stoned anymore, but if I did, I bet contemplating this responsibility would Break My MInd.

Find out more about Jim in two weeks...

Tantrum with Special Guest Jim Howard
Second Fridays at the Westport Coffeehouse
4010 Pennsylvania • 816-678-8886 for reservations
Friday, August 14 • 8pm • Tickets: $10
May contain adult material.

Tantrum joins national acts at the KC Improv Festival

2009-07-21T19:26:00.000-07:00

Tantrum plays football by our own rules at last year's KCiF.

For 4 days starting 09/09/09, you can see hilarious nationally-recognized improvisers from Saturday Night Live, Jimmy Kimmel Live, live venues across the nation and very best local talent—including Tantrum.

This year's KC Improv Festival takes place at the Off Center Theater located in Crown Center. Click here for the schedule and ticket information. And come see us perform Friday night with Comedy City, Messing with a Friend (featuring top Chicago improvisers Susan Messing and Mark Sutton) and Brother Love's Traveling Salvation show, with KC's Dan Walsh and Jeff Drake. We'll be joined by guest monologist Steve Jones, fellow player in ComedyCity, 2 Much Duck, Lighten Up and Funny Outfit.

You can also support Spite (the lady parts of Tantrum) and Rob (in Loaded Dice) as they compete in an Improv Thunderdome match on Thursday. And see Megan with the Trip Fives on Saturday.

(Because of the festival, Tantrum won't be performing at the Westport Coffeehouse in September.)

He's coming baaaaaack...

2009-07-15T21:50:00.000-07:00

Jim Howard returns as guest monologist on Friday, August 14. More Jim stories to come, but for now, here's what we're looking at.

Tantrum with writer Jim Howard
Second Fridays at the Westport Coffeehouse
4010 Pennsylvania • 816-678-8886 for reservations
Friday, August 14 • 8pm • Tickets: $10
May contain adult material.

7 Questions for Scott Sjoberg: Megan and Michael want to know...

2009-07-09T23:06:00.000-07:00

7 Questions for Scott Sjoberg: Pete and Rob want to know...

2009-07-07T18:13:00.000-07:00

7 Questions for Scott Sjoberg: Josh and Trish want to know...

2009-06-28T21:58:00.000-07:00

7 Questions for Scott Sjoberg: Nikki wants to know...

2009-06-23T20:04:00.000-07:00

NOTE: We want to get to know our guest monologists even better before the show. So we're introducing a brand new feature—7 Questions. Each member of Tantrum gets to ask a question—the same one every time—to our special guests, who can answer them in as much or as little detail as they'd like.

Nikki wants to know: What's the best thing you got away with as a kid?
I think I got busted for everything! Ditched school...my mom found the forged notes from a girl at school...fake Dr. appt. note...Dad found the booze I tried to steal...mom found a girl's purse in a bush a week after I had a big party while parents were out of town...got busted when the girl came to our house to get her purse. I did help my little sister get away with things. Helped her sneak out of the house to sleep under the stars with girlfriends...then helped her sneak back into the house in the middle of the night when she got cold and scared.

Second Fridays at the Westport Coffeehouse
4010 Pennsylvania • 816-678-8886 for reservations
Friday, July 10 • 8pm • Tickets: $20 (no passes or discounts accepted for this benefit show)
May contain adult material.

Next up: Tantrum and the Feisty Devils fight MS

2009-06-17T18:48:00.000-07:00

In July, Tantrum welcomes special guest Scott Sjoberg to tell stories on the spot—and raise money to fight Multiple Sclerosis. Scott’s wife, Kami, was diagnosed with MS in 1999; now they both ride in the MS 150. Their Bike MS team, The Feisty Devils, rides because they “know that riding so many miles is nowhere near as difficult as confronting a lifetime with multiple sclerosis.”

Tantrum Improv with Special Guest Scott Sjoberg
Friday, July 10, 8pm at the Westport Coffeehouse
Tickets: $20. Call 816-678-8886 for reservations.
No passes or discounts will be accepted at this benefit performance.

Check back often to learn more about Scott and Kami and what's in store in July!

That was the opposite of geeky...

2009-06-12T22:51:00.000-07:00

Tonight's show was a blast—we had Kevin as our guest monologist and a great crowd, so it's hard to go wrong. And in that crowd? Sarah Anderson of Softee (who turns out to be a Tantrum fan—it's so mutual), Eric Jones of Action Figure and Nathan Lewis of Tarkus Attacks.

And we were, for the first time I'm aware of, live Tweeted by some writer pals.

Pete won't let us say "awesome," so someone's going to have to come up with another word for it.

Coming up next...news about Tantrum's July show.

Tomorrow night at this time...

2009-06-11T19:56:00.001-07:00

You either will have seen Tantrum and Kevin Dilmore...or will have serious regrets about your choices. There's still time to make reservations.

Friday, June 12, at 8pm
Westport Coffeehouse Theatre, 4010 Pennsylvania
$10 all seats (cash at the door)

We're going for funny AND fascinating.

2009-06-07T19:35:00.000-07:00

Friday, June 12, at 8pm
Westport Coffeehouse Theatre, 4010 Pennsylvania
$10 all seats (cash at the door)

What? You haven't made reservations yet? That does not seem...logical.

Star Trek novelist Kevin Dilmore is coming straight out of a few months of movie previews and comic-cons—and Tantrum can't wait to play.

Call 816-678-8886 for reservations—this one will sell out.

A preview of what's to come...

2009-05-25T18:42:00.000-07:00

Contains seriously funny adult language.

If you’ve seen Star Trek novelist Kevin Dilmore perform with Tantrum, you know exactly why we’re bringing him back.

In our last show, he talked about bat'leths…smuggling liquor in cargo pants…and what really goes on at sci-fi conventions. Now—after a couple of intense months of attending Star Trek previews and comic-cons—he’s back with all new stories.

To get Kevin started, you’ll shout out topics you want to hear about. He can respond with anything he wants to—as long as it’s true. Then Tantrum takes over, twisting and turning his tales into a series of scenes.

Friday, June 12, at 8pm
Westport Coffeehouse Theatre, 4010 Pennsylvania
$10 all seats (cash at the door)

Think we're the best?

2009-05-22T08:59:00.000-07:00

Vote Tantrum KC's Best Performing Arts Group!

If you like what we do, we'd really appreciate your vote in the Midwest Luxe Best of Kansas City poll. It's quick, easy and you get to say nice things about other people you like, too. Register here and enter our name in the Culture section as Best Performing Arts Group.

Tantrum gets our geek on.

2009-05-15T21:17:00.000-07:00

Friday, June 12, at 8pm
Westport Coffeehouse Theatre, 4010 Pennsylvania
$10 all seats (cash at the door)

The new Star Trek movie is a hit...so being the opportunists we are, we’ve invited Star Trek novelist Kevin Dilmore back to spin the stories as guest monologist. He’s spent the last couple of months hosting Star Trek events and attending conventions…so you know he’s got some good ones.

You know how it works: On Second Fridays, there are no rules, no scripts and no holds barred. You can give any suggestion. Kevin can tell any story that comes to mind. And Tantrum can boldly go where no improviser has gone before. (So, you know, the show might just contain adult material.)

Kevin's literary career began in 2001 with the publication of Interphase, a Star Trek novel written with his friend and writing partner Dayton Ward. The duo has written numerous novels and short stories based on television shows since, including their latest, Wet Work, based on “The 4400,” published in November 2008. As a freelance writer, Kevin has contributed to publications including Star Trek Communicator, Amazing Stories and Hallmark magazines. He's an award-winning newspaper reporter and since 2005, has worked for Hallmark Cards. His first book for Hallmark, SuperDad (And His Daring Dadventures), is available for Father's Day at your local Hallmark retailer.

Check back for videos of his first WCH show with us. And call 816-678-8886 for reservations—this one will sell out.

7 Questions for Cindy Weiner: Tantrum wants to know...

2009-05-05T17:52:00.000-07:00

NOTE: We want to get to know our guest monologists even better before the show. So we're introducing a brand new feature—7 Questions. Each member of Tantrum gets to ask a question—the same one every time—to our special guests, who can answer them in as much or as little detail as they'd like.

Rob wants to know: What's your first memory?
They took out my tonsils when was 3. Then they expected a three-year-old not to scratch at the wound. Right. That spurred my first real memory of receiving a blood transfusion, with the donor in the bed right next to mine. Kind of a bad horror movie vibe.

Nikki wants to know: What's the best thing you got away with as a kid?
Sneaking out for a midnight swim at Wendy Danner’s pool. There were six of us that used to do it all the time around 10, 11 years old. We are all still good friends today.

Josh wants to know: What was/is the most unusual job you've held?
Stringing tennis rackets and chopping down ski poles. Not an interesting job, but certainly the most unusual.

Trish wants to know: What weird thing scares the hell out of you?
Ferris Wheels. Didn’t used to be that way. If you’ve got to have an irrational, adult fear, it beats flying.

Megan wants to know: What makes you laugh out loud?
My dog, Frankie. We don’t have enough space on the web to get into how fun and funny my dog is.

Pete wants to know: What was the first album (45/8-track/cassette/cd/whatever) you purchased with your own money?
Yellow Submarine. Even then, I knew you couldn’t go wrong with The Beatles.

Michael wants to know: What is the best decision you've ever made?
Moving to Kansas City, and I don’t mean that in the suck up way it sounds. So many good things, good friendships, good everything, has hit me since I moved to this town. Smart move.

Find out more about Cindy this Friday at our next show...
Second Fridays at the Westport Coffeehouse
4010 Pennsylvania • 816-678-8886 for reservations
Friday, May 8 • 8pm • Tickets: $10
May contain adult material.

2009-05-03T19:07:00.000-07:00

Cindy Weiner is one of those guests we just had to bring back for a second round. After a hilarious show with us at the KC library, she's back this coming Friday—live, unscripted and uncensored.

If you missed seeing Cindy last time—or haven't had a good dose of Tantrum recently—you can still make reservations for the next show. Call us or sign up for our event on Facebook. We'll see you there!

Last show in the Talking Out Of Turn series—don't miss it.

2009-04-13T20:36:00.000-07:00

There's no better way to wrap up our latest series at the KC Public Library than with its executive director, Crosby Kemper III, as our guest monologist.

Read about it in the Star (OK, they got the "kicks off" part wrong, unless they've got an inside source) or find out more about our special guest in the Pitch.

Talking Out Of Turn at the KC Public Library
Plaza Library, 4801 Main • 816-701-3407 for reservations
Wednesday, April 15 • 7pm • Admission: FREE
All ages welcome.

Cindy's back! And we're on TV.

2009-04-12T19:26:00.000-07:00

Cindy Weiner was hilarious in her show with Tantrum at the Library last month. So she's coming back—and this time she'll be live, unscripted and uncensored.

Cindy was named one of Radio’s Most Influential Women in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and again in 2006. After managing radio stations in major markets across the country, she added Career Coaching to her resume and started her first business venture, Centric Coaching (centriccoaching.com). She's been active with the American Red Cross, United Way and the National Kidney Foundation, currently is serving on the Board of the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Kansas City and chairs the Marketing Committee and is on the Board for The Women’s Employment Network. She’s also an advisory board member for Flourish Magazine, a KC Women’s Business Publication.

Check back for her answers to our 7 Questions...and come put Cindy on the spot at our next show! (She's a career coach...she's used to it.)

Second Fridays at the Westport Coffeehouse
4010 Pennsylvania • 816-678-8886 for reservations
Friday, May 8 • 8pm • Tickets: $10
May contain adult material.

AND! AND! AND!
We were on KC After Hours on KCTV5.

7 Questions for Darron Story: Rob and Nikki want to know...

2009-04-07T17:11:00.000-07:00

Rob wants to know: What's your first memory?

Asking my mom and dad for a Big Mac!

Nikki wants to know: What's the best thing you got away with as a kid?

I didn’t get away with anything—my folks were hardcore!

Check back for more answers...and come put Darron on the spot at our next show!

Second Fridays at the Westport Coffeehouse
4010 Pennsylvania • 816-678-8886 for reservations
Friday, April 10 • 8pm • Tickets: $10
May contain adult material.

7 Questions for Darron Story: Josh and Trish want to know...

2009-03-31T20:30:00.000-07:00

Josh wants to know: What was/is the most unusual job you've held?

I was a security guard, but I guarded a warehouse full of car bodies…Italian car bodies.

Trish wants to know: What weird thing scares the hell out of you?

Nothing weird really scares me. Of course weird is relative...but I guess it is when people don’t think for themselves…that’s not really funny, but it's kind of like how people are following our President...that scares me!

Our April shows are kind of a big deal

2009-03-26T20:29:00.000-07:00

It's April! And Tantrum has two shows. Surely you can make it to one of them...

Friday, April 10: Darron Story of KC After Hours on KCTV5

There’s only one place where you can see some of KC’s most interesting personalities live, unscripted and uncensored. Every Second Friday at the Westport Coffeehouse, Tantrum invites a “guest monologist” to tell stories on the spot for us to spin into scenes.

In April, we crank up the cool factor with Darron Story.

Host of Kansas City After Hours on KCTV5, Darron is a TV veteran whose appearances include The Oprah Winfrey Show. Before lauching KC’s cutting-edge late night talk show, he hosted The Wrap, a weekly call-in sports talk show on Kansas City’s Sports Radio 810 WHB.

The Kansas City native is also the owner and executive producer of the production company, Intrepid Entertainment. As a musician, Darron scored a Billboard number-one hit, “I Got A Thang 4 Ya!,” with his R&B group, Lo-Key, and received a Platinum sales award for contributions to the motion picture soundtrack of the hit movie Mo’ Money.

When he performs with Tantrum, Darron will take requests. You tell us what you want to hear about, and he can say anything he wants to—as long as it’s true. Then Tantrum takes over, twisting and turning his tales into a series of hilarious scenes.

Darron has answered our 7 Questions...check back soon to find out more about him.

Second Fridays at the Westport Coffeehouse
4010 Pennsylvania • 816-678-8886 for reservations
Friday, April 10 • 8pm • Tickets: $10
May contain adult material.

Wednesday, April 15: Surprise guest

Tantrum returns to the KC Public Library for the FINAL SHOW in our Talking Out of Turn series.

We're still waiting for final confirmation of our guest monologist...but we can promise you, it's a big deal.

Talking Out Of Turn at the KC Public Library
Plaza Library, 4801 Main • 816-701-3407 for reservations
Wednesday, April 15 • 7pm • Admission: FREE
All ages welcome.

Don't just take our word for it...

2009-03-17T17:17:00.001-07:00

Tantrum gets a great review from the UMKC University News.

Here's an excerpt:

The audience sees the perfect alchemy between the comedians and how they work effortlessly together as a team. Especially in this form of theater, that spirit is absolutely essential.

We also see that every comedian has his favorite kind of characters, but the differences of the actors combine together in a perfect mix.

Read the rest...and check us out tomorrow night!

See Tantrum FREE this Wednesday

2009-03-16T19:41:00.000-07:00

We're back at the library with Cindy Weiner Schloss.

It's not often you get a chance (OK, a small chance, but a chance nonetheless) to leave an improv show with improved life skills. Cindy has her act together off stage—and on. Don't miss it!

Want to know what other audience members think of our shows? Awesome foodie blogger Emily said some really nice things about our Second Fridays performance. You eat, right? Then check Everything Begins With An E for ideas on where to eat out before the show.

7 Questions for Sassy B Yatch: Rob and Michael and Nikki want to know...

2009-03-12T19:16:00.000-07:00

NOTE: We want to get to know our guest monologists even better before the show. So we're introducing a brand new feature—7 Questions. Each member of Tantrum gets to ask a question—the same one every time—to our special guests, who can answer them in as much or as little detail as they'd like.

Rob wants to know: What's your first memory?
SASSY: Right after my parents divorced my dad brought his girlfriend (whom he had been seeing while he was married to my mother) with him to visit and I was only 2 or so but I remember sitting on her lap and I couldn't stop staring at this big a$$ mole she had on her face. I finally reached out and touched it! I'm pretty sure it was an awkward situation or whatever but I don't remember what happened before or after I touched it.

Michael wants to know: What is the best decision you've ever made?
SASSY: One day in college, my cousin was in a car accident and she flipped her car on the highway. She walked away with only a few bumps and bruises because she had her seat belt on. I decided on that day to ALWAYS wear my seat belt and 12 years later, it saved my life!

Nikki wants to know: What's the best thing you got away with as a kid?
SASSY: Absolutely nothing! No joke, my mother was young and single and nothing got past her. She was like Inspector Gadget, Nancy Drew and MacGyver all rolled into one! She had spies and eyes everywhere and any time I did anything she knew about it. In fact, if she believed I did something wrong, there was nothing I could do to convince her otherwise....sometimes she could make me wonder if I really did do something I knew I hadn't done!

Sassy and Tantrum at our show—tonight!
Second Friday at the Westport Coffeehouse Theatre

4010 Pennsylvania • 816-678-8886 for reservations
Wednesday, March 18 • 8pm • Admission: $10 (cash only at the door)
May (OK, probably will) contain adult material.

7 Questions for Sassy B Yatch: Josh and Trish want to know...

2009-03-08T21:02:00.000-07:00

4010 Pennsylvania • 816-678-8886 for reservations
Wednesday, March 18 • 8pm • Admission: $10 (cash only at the door)
May (OK, probably will) contain adult material.

7 Questions for Sassy B Yatch: Megan and Pete want to know...

2009-03-03T21:42:00.000-08:00

4010 Pennsylvania • 816-678-8886 for reservations
Wednesday, March 18 • 8pm • Admission: $10 (cash only at the door)
May (OK, probably will) contain adult material.

Two chances to see Tantrum in March

2009-03-01T19:06:00.001-08:00

March brings two completely different monologists for what are sure to be two radically different shows.

Friday, March 13: Sassy B. Yatch of the KC Roller Warriors

Joining us for Second Fridays at the Westport Coffeehouse: Aris Chapman, aka Sassy B. Yatch, is a wife, mother, teacher and a bad-ass blocker for the KC Roller Warriors team Black-Eye Susans.

Sassy's been sidelined since last year after a near-fatal car accident—but she's ready for a comeback bout in July. In the meantime, she's taking care of her four-year-old daughter and working to start her own business, matching caregivers with families.

Outside the rink, she was on Wheel of Fortune in 2005. She wasn't the big winner: She lost to a twenty-something year old Katrina victim—and for the first time in her life, found out she was okay with second place. (OK, and she won $11,000.)

See her with Tantrum Friday, then cheer on the Black-Eye Susans at Fat Bruiseday on Saturday night.

Second Fridays at the Westport Coffeehouse
4010 Pennsylvania • 816-678-8886 for reservations
Friday, March 13 • 8pm • Tickets: $10
May contain adult material.

Wednesday, March 18: Cindy Schloss

Tantrum returns to the KC Public Library for the Talking Out of Turn series.

Cindy was named one of Radio’s Most Influential Women in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and again in 2006. After managing radio stations in major markets across the country, she added Career Coaching to her resume and started her first business venture, Centric Coaching. She's been active with the American Red Cross, United Way and the National Kidney Foundation, currently is serving on the Board of the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Kansas City and chairs the Marketing Committee and is on the Board for The Women’s Employment Network. She’s also an advisory board member for Flourish Magazine, a KC Women’s Business Publication.

Talking Out Of Turn at the KC Public Library
Plaza Library, 4801 Main • 816-701-3407 for reservations
Wednesday, March 18 • 7pm • Admission: FREE
All ages welcome.

7 Questions for Kevin Dilmore: Megan wants to know...

2009-02-16T10:31:00.000-08:00

7 Questions for Kevin Dilmore: Michael wants to know...

2009-02-12T07:23:00.000-08:00

7 Questions for Kevin Dilmore: Pete wants to know...

2009-02-10T21:19:00.000-08:00

7 Questions for Kevin Dilmore: Josh wants to know...

2009-02-08T13:19:00.000-08:00

7 Questions for Kevin Dilmore: Trish wants to know...

2009-02-04T22:11:00.000-08:00

Talking Out Of Turn

2009-02-01T21:29:00.001-08:00

New year. New name.

Tantrum is back at the Plaza Library on Wednesday, February 18, at 7pm. Click here to make reservations.

7 Questions for Kevin Dilmore: Rob wants to know...

2009-02-01T19:19:00.000-08:00

7 Questions for Kevin Dilmore: Nikki wants to know...

2009-01-30T21:06:00.001-08:00

Nikki wants to know: What's the best thing you got away with as a kid?
KEVIN: Telling vulgar jokes at our high-school talent show when I was a freshman. My principal was threatening to suspend me until he confirmed that the teacher who was supposed to approve our material didn't show up for the dress rehearsal. But the principal did bring down the hammer on the tradition of an annual talent show that year (1979) and there's never been another at the school.

Check back soon for the next question. And put Kevin on the spot LIVE at either of our shows in February.

Second Fridays at the Westport Coffeehouse
4010 Pennsylvania • 816-678-8886 for reservations
Friday, February 13 • 8pm • Tickets: $10
May contain adult material.

Making a Scene at the KC Public Library
Plaza Library, 4801 Main • 816-701-3407 for reservations
Wednesday, February 18 • 7pm • Admission: FREE
All ages welcome.

Author Kevin Dilmore joins Tantrum in February

2009-01-11T11:43:00.000-08:00

Next up: Tantrum boldly goes where no improvisers have gone before.

Star Trek author Kevin Dilmore will spin the stories as guest monologist for Tantrum's shows on Second Friday at the Westport Coffeehouse and the return of our Making A Scene series at the Plaza Library.

His literary career began in 2001 with the publication of Interphase, a Star Trek novel written with his friend and writing partner Dayton Ward. The duo has written numerous novels and short stories based on television shows since, including their latest, Wet Work, based on “The 4400,” published in November 2008. As a freelance writer, Kevin has contributed to publications including Star Trek Communicator, Amazing Stories and Hallmark magazines.

For nearly 15 years, Kevin Dilmore worked as a newspaper reporter and editor for the Miami County Republic newspaper in Paola, Kan. His photographs, news stories and features won numerous honors from state and national journalism organizations, and he is a two-time winner of the Kansas Press Association’s highest award for in-depth reporting. Since 2005, Kevin has worked for Hallmark Cards; his first book for Hallmark will be published in 2009.

A graduate of the University of Kansas, Kevin counts himself as very thankful for the person who, at age 9, tipped him off to the fact that “Star Trek” was a live-action television show before it was a Saturday-morning cartoon.

Second Fridays at the Westport Coffeehouse

4010 Pennsylvania • 816-678-8886 for reservations
Friday, February 13 • 8pm • Tickets: $10
May contain adult material.

Making a Scene at the KC Public Library
Plaza Library, 4801 Main • 816-701-3407 for reservations
Wednesday, February 18 • 7pm • Admission: FREE

All ages welcome.

It's tonight

2009-01-09T08:51:00.001-08:00

We're ready to kick off 2009.

If Wednesday's rehearsal is any indication, tonight's show is going to be a blast. Come ready to laugh.

Tantrum, featuring Guest Monologist Jim Howard
8pm at the Westport Coffehouse Theater, 4010 Pennsylvania
Reservations: 816-678-8886

This just in: Games!

2009-01-01T20:08:00.000-08:00

For January's show, Tantrum is going back to our roots

We all met at ComedyCity—known for short, fun, fast-paced games based heavily on audience suggestions. (You know, the kind from Whose Line Is It, Anyway?) We've all played them (with ComedyCity and other groups) for years and years, but never as Tantrum.

Turns out games are fun.

So we're going to play them in our January show—then, for our second half, we'll bring in Jim Howard and do a little long-form. Just another reason not to miss the first show in our new Second Fridays series on January 9, at 8pm at the Westport Coffeehouse, 4010 Pennsylvania. Tickets are $10. Don't risk bone-crushing disappointment—make reservations now by calling 816-678-8886.

Coming in January: Jim Howard returns

2008-12-14T18:59:00.000-08:00

"Prosodist, screenwriter, hired word gun; father of three, master of none"—and now, two-time Tantrum monologist

January brings back guest monologist Jim Howard, who blew audiences away at our Making A Scene show in November. A mild-mannered greeting card writer by day, Jim also has written screenplays for Big Bad Love and the Lifetime Channel TV movie Dawn Anna. His blog, Spulge Nine, is infrequented by nearly dozens of readers. And he recently snared his 100th Twitter follower in a web of terse rumination.

Last time, Jim covered everything from elementary school humiliation to illicit behavior to houses burning down. See what he does with your suggestions Friday, January 9, at 8pm at the Westport Coffeehouse, 4010 Pennsylvania. Tickets are $10. Our last show filled up fast—so make reservations now by calling 816-678-8886.

Before our Thanksgiving show

2008-12-09T19:40:00.000-08:00

Corey has the longest arms, so he got to take the picture.

The casts of Tantrum, our Monologist, and The Union. Topish: Megan Mercer, Nikki Dupont, Rob Grabowski, Josh Steinmez, Pete Calderone. Bottomish: Tom Farnan (monologist), Monique Madrid (The Union), Trish Berrong, Corey Rittmaster (The Union).

Thanks for the photo, Mo!

2009 Tantrum Show Schedule

2008-11-28T23:23:00.000-08:00

We're finished for 2008, but 2009 brings more shows and more funny!

Many, many thanks to Corey Rittmaster and Monique Madrid of the Union...and guest monologist Tom Farnan...and everyone who packed the house for our night-after-Thanksgiving show! We're taking December off, and coming back in January with a regular monthly show and a return to the Library.

Second Fridays at the Westport Coffeehouse

4010 Pennsylvania • 816-678-8886 for reservations

8pm • Tickets: $10

Now you can see Tantrum every month! Starting in January, we're back home at WCH for 90 minute shows. Watch this space to see what they're all about.

Making a Scene at the KC Public Library

Plaza Library, 4801 Main • 816-701-3407 for reservations

7pm • Admission: FREE

Wednesdays, February 18, March 18 & April 15

Tantrum is back for an encore at the Library, with a new monologist telling true stories based on audience suggestions every month. Check back for names and bios.

Nice words from the Pitch

2008-11-26T12:50:00.000-08:00

Don't miss "daring, scene-based improvisation" PLUS a "well-regarded sketch-comedy duo."

GET YOUR LAUGH ON
Alan Scherstuhl

Tonight, as Americans stagger home from Black Friday shopping and as newscasters scowl at the early numbers and warn us that "this looks like an unmerry holiday for retailers," you could talk to your family. Or, better yet, consider hitting the Westport Coffee House (4010 Pennsylvania) for the latest in a new breed of Kansas City improv: shows that pair the daring, scene-based improvisation of one of our best local troupes (Tantrum, which features Rob Grabowski, The Pitch's Best Funny Performer 2008) with the best imports from other cities (Corey Rittmaster and Monique Madrid's well-regarded sketch-comedy duo, the Union). Tantrum plans one of its inspired monologue shows. "We'll have a monologist telling true stories, and we'll spin off them into scenes," explains Trish Berrong, one of this town's sharpest comic minds. As for the Union, Berrong says, "They're both funny as hell and funnier together." In other words, if your idea of improv comedy is rhyming games — and "Can I get a celebrity? Yes! David Hasselhoff!" — you should spend Black Friday getting schooled. And laughing. The show costs $10 and starts at 8 p.m.; for reservations, call 816-678-8886.

Don't miss Tantrum + Tom Farnan + The Union this Friday

2008-11-23T11:24:00.000-08:00

Guest monologist Tom Farnan's alter ego, Velvet Tom (actually, it might be the other way around).

Who isn't ready to get out of the house the night after Thanksgiving? So use us as your excuse.

First up, there's Tantrum—this time, with old ComedyCity pal Tom Farnan telling stories based on audience suggestions. Then husband-wife team Corey Rittmaster and Monique Madrid (aka The Union) present a sampler from their latest show, Ward and June are Dead—fresh from the Annoyance in Chicago. Then—because why the heck wouldn't we?—we'll all play together. And after that, McCoy's/the Foundry.

Reservations are filling up fast for this one, so call 816-678-8886 right now (seriously—we'll wait). Friday, November 28, at 8pm at the Westport Coffeehouse Theatre. Tickets are $10—cash only at the door.

Photos from our first KC Library show

2008-11-09T20:44:00.000-08:00

Here we are with two-time monologist Valissa Smith.

Turns out they have a Flikr account. Who knew?

Announcing our latest guest monologist: Jim Howard

2008-11-03T12:24:00.001-08:00

Another reason not to miss our last library show November 12:
Hallmark writer Jim Howard calls himself a "prosodist, screenwriter, hired word gun; father of three, master of none." His screenwriting credits include Big Bad Love and the Lifetime Channel movie Dawn Anna. His blog, Spulge Nine, is infrequented by nearly dozens of readers. And he recently snared his 100th Twitter follower in a web of terse rumination.

Tantrum plays TWICE in November

2008-10-19T19:56:00.000-07:00

First up: Last chance to see Tantrum: Making a Scene

Tantrum's last show at the KC Public Library, Plaza Branch (4801 Main) is Wednesday, Nov. 12, at 7pm. The show is free, the wine bar is cash only and the space is terrific. Don't miss it.

Then: It's Tantrum + The Union

You know that point during the Thanksgiving weekend where you realize you MUST. GET. OUT. OF. THE. HOUSE? We've got somewhere for you to go. And it doesn't even conflict with any MEANINGFUL football (i.e. KU, MU or UT).

Friday, Nov. 28, at 8om, KC's Tantrum and Chicago's The Union take the stage at the Westport Coffeehouse Theatre. The Union features KC's own Corey Rittmaster and Monique Madrid, now making the funny in Chicago. The Express Milwaukee says this about their sketch show: "Sharp writing was delivered impeccably."

Tickets are 10 bucks. Doors open at 7:30. Everyone goes to McCoy's (or The Foundry) after.

Tantrum's Rob Grabowski=Pitch's Best Funny Performer

2008-10-01T13:45:00.000-07:00

Rob Grabowski (center), shown at the KC Improv Festival with Michael Montague Jr., Josh Steinmetz and Pete Calderone. (Photo by Rita Marks)

The Pitch says this:

A long, lean guy with a look of high-plains blankness and a mind that churns much faster than his face lets on, longtime improviser Rob Grabowski gets audiences howling without seeming to try. He's soft-spoken, often still, and not given to spouting off whatever crazy thoughts come to him. Instead, he tends to make each crazy thought real, reacting to the comic strangeness around him in ways that real people would. This makes funny ideas funnier. His other gift is for elevating the everyday to the truly strange. At a Tantrum show this past summer, a scene about him trying to pick chewing gum off the ground and then properly disposing of it developed into a miniature suite of modern-day anxieties: germophobia, the guilt over not recycling, and the need to look like you worry about these things more than you really do. Subdued in demeanor but manic inside, Grabowski not only sees all the possibilities of a comic situation but also works through the best of them with rare patience, discipline and intelligence.

Congrats, Rob!

(And to everybody else: See what the fuss is about at our next show, October 15.)

Next show: October 15

2008-09-17T20:33:00.000-07:00

Thanks for coming!

It was great to see everyone who came out for our show tonight (and wine! and snacks!)—so thanks to all of you. And a great big tangential hug to Valissa Smith, so far our only TWO TIME guest monologist (which I think makes her our favorite, doesn't it?).

Our next show isn't 'til October. But you can see Tantrum any time you want to—just invite us to perform at your private party or corporate event. Like hoes in a bean field (you had to be there), we will do anything for money. Just email tantrumkc@gmail.com with the scoop.

MAKING A SCENE

AT THE KC PUBLIC LIBRARY

Next show: Wednesday, October 15

7pm at the Plaza Branch, Truman Forum, 4801 Main St.

Taking audience suggestions, TANTRUM spins impromptu stories that generate a succession of spontaneous scenes aimed at giving patrons fits (of laughter). Every performance is different, because everything is improvised—and anything can happen. This is the second of three installments in a series of Making a Scene performances.

Veterans of the local improvisational comedy scene, the TANTRUM cast includes Trish Berrong, Pete Calderone, Nikki Dupont, Rob Grabowski, Megan Mercer, Michael Montague Jr., and Josh Steinmetz. Who will be our guest monologist and spill their stories? Check back for details.

A 6:30p.m. reception will feature a cash wine bar.

Admission is free. Call 816.701.3407 to indicate your interest in attending. Free parking is available in the Library District Parking Garage at 10th and Baltimore.

And coming soon: November 12 at the Plaza Branch (4801 Main), Truman Auditorium

Welcome back, Valissa Smith!

2008-09-16T21:44:00.001-07:00

Valissa rejoins us for our library show on Wednesday. She used to be an anchorwoman...now she's an entrepreneur...and she's got loads of stories. Come on down!

What's up for Fall 2008

2008-08-24T13:44:00.000-07:00

HOT FRESH COMEDY.

KANSAS CITY STYLE.

September 5-6: National Showcase
September 12-14: Local Showcase

H&R Block City Stage, Union Station

Last year, standing-room-only crowds watched as Saturday Night Live standout Jason Sudeikis, Emmy Award-winning 30 Rock writer Kay Cannon and comedians from Chicago, LA and NYC improvised their way through a hilarious weekend of shows. This fall, 8:KCiF returns to the H&R Block City Stage with nationally acclaimed acts and local favorites.

Tantrum performs Friday, September 12, at 7pm with three other local troupes—CounterClockwise Comedy, Roving Imp, and Improv Thunderdome Season One Champions Loaded Dice (featuring Tantrum's Rob Grabowski).

Tickets are on sale now—and going fast! Call 816-460-2020 to reserve your seats. And visit the official festival site for all the details.

MAKING A SCENE

AT THE KC PUBLIC LIBRARY

Wednesday, September 17

7pm at the Central Library, 14 W. 10th St.

Taking audience suggestions, TANTRUM spins impromptu stories that generate a succession of spontaneous scenes aimed at giving patrons fits (of laughter). Every performance is different, because everything is improvised—and anything can happen. This is the first of three installments in a series of Making a Scene performances.

Veterans of the local improvisational comedy scene, the TANTRUM cast includes Trish Berrong, Pete Calderone, Nikki Dupont, Rob Grabowski, Megan Mercer, Michael Montague Jr., and Josh Steinmetz.

A 6 p.m. reception will feature a cash wine bar.

Admission is free. Call 816.701.3407 to indicate your interest in attending. Free parking is available in the Library District Parking Garage at 10th and Baltimore.

And coming soon:
October 16 and November 12 at the Plaza Branch (4801 Main), Truman Auditorium