Comedy Preview: Friendship at the heart of Matterhorn Improv

For the gentlemen of Matterhorn Improv, friendship is the secret to comedy success.

“We’re four best friends with nothing to hold us back,” said Brian Cook, one of the four members of Matterhorn Improv. “Even with just a look, I know what the other guys are thinking onstage. Our shared experiences are the best prep for our improv.”

Matterhorn Improv will showcase their group mind once a month in their new home of Chinatown’s Fortune Sound Club. Tonight and the first Tuesday of every month will see Cook, Andrew Barber, Cam Macleod, and Scott Patey take the stage with guests from the Vancouver Improv Community.

Image: Matterhorn Improv

“We’re the first resident comedy show at Fortune Sound Club, which is very exciting,” Macleod said. “The four of us had a meeting about our goals for the group, and we all agreed that we wanted to keep growing. In order for us to take it to the next level, we had to change venues.”

“Fortune is the perfect venue for live comedy,” Barber added. “It’s a comfy space with a full bar, there are lights and sounds, and the stage is at a great height. People will feel right at home there.

Matterhorn Improv have deep roots in Chinatown, performing their first show at The Emerald Supper Club in 2012 and hosting a regular event at China Cloud for the past year. The comedy quartet has also headlined at Improlympia Festival and performed at the Vancouver International Improv Festival.

Image: Matterhorn Improv

For their first night at Fortune Sound Club, Matterhorn Improv is also Canadian Comedy Award winners The Sunday Service and a mixed group featuring Devin Mackenzie, Chris Cassillan, and Allen Morrison.

“The audience can expect a high-energy, fun show,” said Patey. “We complement each other; when we share the stage, we allow each other room to shine.

“We really want to establish ourselves in the Vancouver comedy scene, and eventually tour and do more festivals. Matterhorn is a real passion for us all.”

Matterhorn Improv

When: Tuesday, January 5

Where: Fortune Sound Club – 147 East Pender Street, Vancouver

Tickets: $6.50 plus service fees, available here.