Several sketches, which were much better than the improvisation, were wet-your-pants funny. Mitch Silpa was amazing as the televangelist going out amongst the audience.
The show had some standout performers. Ben Falcone provided hardy guffaws as a party guest prone to saying ridiculous off-the-cuff remarks. He returned with Jim Cashman in a knee-slapper about two college roommates unaware of their flamboyant homosexuality.
Jeremy Rowley was brilliant as an incomprehensible public speaker mired in his own fear. Michaela Watkins got in a laugh or two as a high-paid eccentric attorney obsessed with her dim-bulb boyfriend.
One particular sketch, a multi-media extravaganza, stood out. An improv bit about a fly and a Venus Flytrap seemed to be perfectly choreographed to the music.
After the show, an eagle-eyed fan pointed out that the audience member that suggested the bit was a performer in the show. Though it violated the rules for improvisation, it was still a funny sketch.
Groundlings Theatre is located at 7307 Melrose Ave. in Los Angeles. Tickets: $21.50. Fridays at 8 p.m. For more information, visit www.groundlings.com.