“Y’allmark,” a holiday-focused improv show, is making its grand return to Atlanta for a 15-show run throughout the month of December.
Taking place at 7 Stages Theatre in Little Five Points, the annual live show mixes “holiday cheer, heartfelt romance and laugh-out-loud satire” to give audiences a one-of-a-kind experience amidst the festive season.
Debuting in 2017, “Y’allmark” serves as a hilarious ode to Hallmark Christmas movies, spoofing their numerous tropes such as “the heartbroken female protagonist who returns home for the holidays” and rekindles a romance with the local hunk to “rediscover the joy of the season,” according to a release.
Serving as the narrator of the performances is Topher Payne, an actual screenwriter for the Hallmark Channel, who will add an air of authentic storytelling to the shows.
“Topher Payne isn’t just a brilliant writer; he’s also a commanding stage presence,” said “Y’allmark” co-creator Amber Nash, who came up with the concept for the show. “There are other improv troupes doing Hallmark movie spoofs, but I can guarantee you they don’t have a real Hallmark movie writer narrating them.”
Performing alongside Payne and Nash is another improv veteran, Kevin Gillese.
The duo — driven by suggestions from the audience — will portray several characters during each show, simultaneously embracing and subverting the signature elements that Hallmark films are renowned for, said a release.
“Y’allmark” offers two different versions of its show: the “Nice Shows” and the “Naughty Shows.”
The “Nice Shows” are described as “PG-rated performances” that are “perfect for families and kids.” These shows also begin earlier, making them ideal for children, as well as adults that are not self-described “night owls.”
The “Naughty Shows,” on the other hand, are more adult-oriented, utilizing PG-13 humor for their Hallmark Christmas-inspired performances.
“Y’allmark” begins its string of shows on Dec. 12 with its preview show and Dec. 13 — which serves as its official opening night. The performances run through Dec. 23.
Tickets can be purchased online through the Dad’s Garage portal. While tickets may also be available at the door, they are not guaranteed, and so it is recommended to buy them online.