Billy Merritt's (Improv) Spotlight

🎧 SHUT UP GAIL – Episode 11 Play Is Not Optional (with Margo Escott) Play is not a reward. It's not a break. It's not something you "get back to" when life calms down. According to Margo Escott, play is essential — and she's been proving it since the 1970s. In this Season 2 premiere of Shut Up Gail, Gail sits down with Margo Escott: psychotherapist, New Games referee, improv teacher, and lifelong champion of joy. What unfolds is a grounded, hilarious, deeply human conversation about laughter, resilience, Parkinson's, anxiety, failure, and why yelling "TA‑DA!" at your mistakes might actually change your life. 🧠 What We Talk About Why play isn't optional, for kids or adults How improv became a powerful therapeutic tool Using play with people living with Parkinson's (and their care partners) Why CBT + mindfulness + improv is a secret weapon for anxiety The radical idea that there are no mistakes Pain vs. suffering — and how presence loosens suffering's grip Gibberish dinnertime (yes, really) 💬 Best Lines "There are no mistakes. Everything you do is meant to happen." "Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional." "Play helps us get out of our heads — and back into being human." 🎭 The Yelling (Mandatory) Margo delivers not one, not two, but multiple heartfelt, joyful, and slightly mischievous renditions of: "Shut up, Gail."Because professionals commit to the bit. 💥 Why This Episode Matters This isn't just an interview — it's permission. Permission to play. Permission to fail loudly. Permission to laugh in the middle of hard things. And permission to tell Gail to shut up. If you want to yell at Gail, please email us at TheBITComedyNetwork@gmail.com "The BIT Spotlight" is part of The BIT Comedy Network. Visit www.BITComedyNetwork.com to listen to our other podcasts or apply to join the ensemble. CAST Gail: Hill Kane Herself: Margot Escott MUSIC: "Zombie Clambake" performed by Little Kahunas | Produced by Peter Miller © (RIP buddy :() "The BIT Spotlight" and "Shut Up Gail" are part of The BIT Comedy Network. Host, Producer, Director, Editor, Art, Co-Creator: Hill Kane Show Runner, Co-Creator: Billy Merritt Co-Creator: Paul Vato Production Assistance, Audio Production, & Graphic Art by Raising Kane Media + Marketing. Hosting Platform: Libsyn.com "The BIT," "The BIT Comedy Network," "Billy Merritt's Improv Spotlight," and "Shut Up Gail" are Trademarks owned by Billy Merritt. ©2025-2026 Billy Merritt - All Rights Reserved Send inquiries + notices + requests: TheBitComedyNetwork@gmail.com

🎙️ Shut Up, Gail – Season Finale: "Yes, And Your Way to World Domination" Guest: Jay Sukow Host: Gail Shepherd (Not Like Cher, but kinda like Cher) Improv legend Jay Sukow drops into Gail's virtual lair to talk shop, shout affirmations, mispronounce "spatula," and accidentally invent the word "fyrk." If you've ever wondered whether failure is your superpower, or if you should microwave fish at work (spoiler: don't), this episode is your new religion. Get ready for: 🎭 The Renaissance of Improv: Jay reflects on the early days of doing scenes with 12 nerds in a rec center and how improv went from "misfit hobby" to "mandatory corporate training." 📉 Failing Spectacularly: Why bombing is beautiful, and how to embrace every weird moment like you meant to do it all along. 🧠 Tools Not Rules: The improv mantra that might save your life—or at least your next Zoom meeting. 🔥 Rapid-Fire Madness: Gail grills Jay on late-night shows, Beastie Boys, Brave Spaces, and… boardroom jams vs. Chicago dive bars. 💥 Plus: -Improv for four-year-olds and vintage performers -Side-mouth Cher impression -A surprise Shakespeare reference (because Gail has a degree) -"Shut Up, Gail" yelled with emotionally intelligent rage-Winslow the British assistant (who definitely ghosted Jay) 🎧 Best Lines: "You're in control of your character. Stop acting like your character owns you." "We don't need rules. We need a fyrk." "Failure is the gift. The comedy is in the mess." 🛑 WARNING: This episode contains high-level improv geekery, joy, and at least two sincere metaphors involving bunting. Be sure to come back on Janaury 8th for the Season Two kick off.  If you want to yell at Gail, please email us at TheBITComedyNetwork@gmail.com "The BIT Spotlight" is part of The BIT Comedy Network. Visit www.BITComedyNetwork.com to listen to our other podcasts or apply to join the ensemble. CAST Gail: Hill Kane Himself: Jay Sukow MUSIC: "Zombie Clambake" performed by Little Kahunas | Produced by Peter Miller © (RIP buddy :() "The BIT Spotlight" and "Shut Up Gail" are part of The BIT Comedy Network. Host, Producer, Director, Editor, Art, Co-Creator: Hill Kane Show Runner, Co-Creator: Billy Merritt Co-Creator: Paul Vato Production Assistance, Audio Production, & Graphic Art by Raising Kane Media + Marketing. Hosting Platform: Libsyn.com "The BIT," "The BIT Comedy Network," and "Shut Up Gail" are Trademarks owned by Billy Merritt. ©2025 Billy Merritt - All Rights Reserved Send inquiries + notices + requests: TheBitComedyNetwork@gmail.com

In this tenth and season finale episode, Andrew, the technical director of the Regency Theatre is joined by the Regency's resident scenery performer Steckman, fresh off her return from the Great White Way. They are joined again by British actor Kristian Night Lewis to discuss bidets and racing cars, and local lucky actor Jenny Blessed to talk about winning lotteries and stopping wars.   Backstage at the Regency will be dark for a few months before returning for Season 2 with all new episodes. Thanks for listening!   CAST: Andrew - Luke Bovard Steckman - Lisa Steckman Kristian Night Lewis - Dean Aisles Jenny Blessed - Thea Marie Thorkildsen   Have a question for the fine theatre folks at the Regency Theatre? Please e-mail us at backstageattheregency@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram at @backstageregency Follow BIT Comedy Network on Instagram at @bitcomedynetwork and Facebook  @BITComedyNetwork. "The BIT Spotlight" is part of The BIT Comedy Network. Created, produced, and edited by Luke Bovard Graphics/Art by Raising Kane Media + Marketing Special Thanks: Billy Merritt MUSIC: * Showtime - Cabaret - Revue by Julius H. * It's Showtime by VictorvanTast   Music provided by PixaBay (a Royalty Free Platform) Hosting Platform: Libsyn.com "The BIT," "The BIT Comedy Network," "The BIT Spotlight," and "Backstage at The Regency" are Trademarks owned by Billy Merritt. © 2025-2026 Billy Merritt - All Rights Reserved Inquiries + Notices + Requests: TheBitComedyNetwork@gmail.com

🎙️ SHUT UP GAIL – Ep. 8: "From Cult to Carnival" with Paul Omarr This is the eighth installment of Bit Behind the Scenes (a.k.a. Shut Up Gail). Listen, follow, rate, and share... PLEASE and THANK YOU! This month, Gail heads to Oslo for a deeply human (and surprisingly funny) conversation with Paul  — a Norwegian comedian, scholar, and improv performer whose journey from cult survivor to carnival-level creative proves that humor and healing can share the same stage. From growing up in a strict congregation to discovering freedom in the unpredictable world of improv, Paul turns personal history into powerful storytelling — with warmth, self-awareness, and the occasional spreadsheet. 🧠 In This Episode: ✨ How growing up in a "cult" shaped Paul's understanding of language, leadership, and laughter 🎭 Why improv became his portal to autonomy and self-expression 🧩 Navigating neurodivergence and sensory challenges in the performance world 🎤 What it's like to host a festival, research your teams, and still find time for brisket jokes 🥨 The link between critical thinking, character work, and sauerkraut 💬 Quotable Moments: "I already freed myself before improv — but improv freed me even more." "Critical thinking is important … but once I'm on stage, I just see whatever the universe gives me." "Oh shut up Gail, you're amazing." 🇳🇴 Bonus Bits: 🕯️ How Paul channels past trauma into empathetic comedy 🧠 The science of decoding neurotypicals — one scene at a time 🍖 Brisket, sauerkraut, and other cross-cultural improv food groups Be sure to come back on the 8th of each month for a new "snack-sized" episode of SHUT UP GAIL. Next month, Gail ends her first season with a kickass interview with the one and only, JAY SUKOW!!!! If you want to yell at Gail, please email us at TheBITComedyNetwork@gmail.com "The BIT Spotlight" is part of The BIT Comedy Network. Visit www.BITComedyNetwork.com to listen to our other podcasts or apply to join the ensemble. CAST Gail: Hill Kane Himself: Paul from Oslo MUSIC: "Zombie Clambake" performed by Little Kahunas | Produced by Peter Miller © (RIP buddy :() "The BIT Spotlight" and "Shut Up Gail" are part of The BIT Comedy Network. Host, Producer, Director, Editor, Art, Co-Creator: Hill Kane Show Runner, Co-Creator: Billy Merritt Co-Creator: Paul Vato Production Assistance, Audio Production, & Graphic Art by Raising Kane Media + Marketing. Hosting Platform: Libsyn.com "The BIT," "The BIT Comedy Network," and "Shut Up Gail" are Trademarks owned by Billy Merritt. ©2025 Billy Merritt - All Rights Reserved Send inquiries + notices + requests: TheBitComedyNetwork@gmail.com

In this ninth episode, Andrew, the technical director of the Regency Theatre, is distracted and accidentally leaves the podcast recording equipment on, and the ghosts of the theatre decide to host an episode.   CAST Andrew/Bartholomew  - Luke Bovard Lindsey  -  Thea Marie Thorkildsen Tommy - Hillary Kane Constance - Terry Armstrong Have a question for the fine theatre folks at the Regency Theatre? E-mail us at backstageattheregency@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram at @backstageregency Follow BIT Comedy Network on Instagram at @bitcomedynetwork and Facebook  @BITComedyNetwork. "The BIT Spotlight" is part of The BIT Comedy Network. Created, produced, and edited by Luke Bovard Graphics/Art by Raising Kane Media + Marketing Special Thanks: Billy Merritt MUSIC: * Showtime - Cabaret - Revue by Julius H. * It's Showtime by VictorvanTast   Music provided by PixaBay (a Royalty Free Platform) Hosting Platform: Libsyn.com "The BIT," "The BIT Comedy Network," "The BIT Spotlight," and "Backstage at The Regency" are Trademarks owned by Billy Merritt. © 2025 Billy Merritt - All Rights Reserved Inquiries + Notices + Requests: TheBitComedyNetwork@gmail.com

🎙️ SHUT UP GAIL – Ep. 7: "Cats, Clapbacks, and Contrasts" with Thea Marie Thorkildsen This is the fourth installment of the Women of BIT.  Listen, follow, rate, and share... PLEASE and THANK YOU! This month on Bit Behind the Scenes (a.k.a. SHUT UP GAIL), Gail gets philosophical, improv-sical, and mildly feline-ical with Norwegian multi-hyphenate Thea Marie Thorkildsen—a political scientist turned stand-up comic, improv rebel, and self-declared curator of "Cat of the Day" (even though it's weekly). 🧠 In This Episode: 🏛️ How nine years of political science, psychology, and history shape Thea's comedic instincts 🎭 Why breaking the "Yes, and" rule might make you a better improviser 🐱 What neighborhood cats really think of Thea's stand-up (spoiler: it's "meow") 👏 The story behind her improv group The Clap (yes, that's what it's called, and no, not for that reason) 🎤 Performing solo at Oslo Improv Festival and 121 times at Edinburgh Fringe (!) ⚡ Rapid-Fire Round Includes: Regression analysis on improv + stand-up combos UCB vs. Second City for first dates National Cat Day vs. Talk Like a Pirate Day (cat supremacy confirmed) Spanish-language improv show titles and fringe audience chaos 💬 Quotable Moments: "Improv taught me you can break the rules—if you know the rules." "My cat critics would just say… 'meow.'" "Gail, you are weird and cool, so shut up, please?" 🇳🇴 Bonus Bits: Thea's guide to navigating Norway with just a "plastic card" Gail's journey into Duolingo Norwegian A teaser for the gang's upcoming Norway Improv Festival takeover Be sure to come back on the 8th of each month for a new "snack-sized" episode of SHUT UP GAIL. If YOU want to yell at Gail, please email us at TheBITComedyNetwork@gmail.com "The BIT Spotlight" is part of The BIT Comedy Network. Please visit www.BITComedyNetwork.com and check out our other podcasts or to apply to the ensemble.   CAST Gail: Hill Kane Herself: Thea Marie Thorkildsen   MUSIC: "Zombie Clambake" performed by Little Kahunas | Produced by Peter Miller © (RIP buddy :() "The BIT Spotlight" and "Shut Up Gail" are part of The BIT Comedy Network. Host, Producer, Director, Editor, Art, Co-Creator: Hill Kane Show Runner, Co-Creator: Billy Merritt Co-Creator: Paul Vato Production Assistance, Audio Production, & Graphic Art by Raising Kane Media + Marketing. Hosting Platform: Libsyn.com "The BIT," "The BIT Comedy Network," and "Shut Up Gail" are Trademarks owned by Billy Merritt. ©2025-2026 Billy Merritt - All Rights Reserved Send inquiries + notices + requests: TheBitComedyNetwork@gmail.com

Gail is going to interview as many BIT lady improvisers as she can this summer! Gail forgot to mention she was globe-trotting in August, so... WHOOPSIE!!! No August episode.  This month, it's the third installment of the Women of Bit! Gail interviewed the incredible, DC-dwelling, hilarious, and kind ... AMBER BELLSDALE. Caps locked,baby! Listen, follow, rate, and share... PLEASE and THANK YOU! Be sure to come back on the 8th of each month for a new "snack-sized" episode of SHUT UP GAIL. Coming up in October, Gail has the Norway Improv Phenom, Thea Marie Thorkildsen! It makes sense to have Thea on the October episode because the BIT Crew is sending a team to perform the rabbitHOLE at the OSLO Improv Fest. That's so forking cool!   If YOU want to yell at Gail, please email us at TheBITComedyNetwork@gmail.com "The BIT Spotlight" is part of The BIT Comedy Network. Be sure to visit www.BITComedyNetwork.com to check out our other podcasts or to apply to the ensemble.   CAST Gail: Hill Kane Herself: Amber Bellsdale   MUSIC: "Zombie Clambake" performed by Little Kahunas | Produced by Peter Miller © (RIP buddy :() "The BIT Spotlight" and "Shut Up Gail" are part of The BIT Comedy Network. Host, Producer, Director, Editor, Art, Co-Creator: Hill Kane Show Runner, Co-Creator: Billy Merritt Co-Creator: Paul Vato Production Assistance, Audio Production, & Graphic Art by Raising Kane Media + Marketing. Hosting Platform: Libsyn.com "The BIT," "The BIT Comedy Network," and "Shut Up Gail" are Trademarks owned by Billy Merritt. ©2025 Billy Merritt - All Rights Reserved Send inquiries + notices + requests: TheBitComedyNetwork@gmail.com

In the eighth episode, Andrew, the technical director of the Regency Theatre, ditches his usual format and invites benefactor extraordinaire, Auntie Midge. The theatre is dark during this part of the summer and no one was around. But of course, Aunti Midge insists on dropping off her check in person.    CAST: Andrew - Luke Bovard Auntie Midge - Hill Kane Have a question for the fine theatre folks at the Regency Theatre? E-mail us at backstageattheregency@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram at @backstageregency Follow BIT Comedy Network on Instagram at @bitcomedynetwork and Facebook  @BITComedyNetwork. "The BIT Spotlight" is part of The BIT Comedy Network. Created, produced, and edited by Luke Bovard Graphics/Art by Raising Kane Media + Marketing Special Thanks: Billy Merritt MUSIC: * Showtime - Cabaret - Revue by Julius H. * It's Showtime by VictorvanTast   Music provided by PixaBay (a Royalty Free Platform) Hosting Platform: Libsyn.com "The BIT," "The BIT Comedy Network," "The BIT Spotlight," and "Backstage at The Regency" are Trademarks owned by Billy Merritt. © 2025 Billy Merritt - All Rights Reserved Inquiries + Notices + Requests: TheBitComedyNetwork@gmail.com

In this seventh episode, Andrew, the technical director of the Regency Theatre, is joined by co-host and legendary lighting designer, Olivier Olivero, where they interview volunteer Janay Littleton about toothbrushes and barista Jake Americano about being a real authentic American.    CAST: Andrew - Luke Bovard Olivier Olivero - Laura Janay Littleton - Amber Jake Americano - Thea   Have a question for the fine theatre folks at the Regency Theatre? E-mail us at backstageattheregency@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram at @backstageregency Follow BIT Comedy Network on Instagram at @bitcomedynetwork and Facebook  @BITComedyNetwork. "The BIT Spotlight" is part of The BIT Comedy Network. Created, produced, and edited by Luke Bovard Graphics/Art by Raising Kane Media + Marketing Special Thanks: Billy Merritt MUSIC: * Showtime - Cabaret - Revue by Julius H. * It's Showtime by VictorvanTast   Music provided by PixaBay (a Royalty Free Platform) Hosting Platform: Libsyn.com "The BIT," "The BIT Comedy Network," "The BIT Spotlight," and "Backstage at The Regency" are Trademarks owned by Billy Merritt. © 2025 Billy Merritt - All Rights Reserved Inquiries + Notices + Requests: TheBitComedyNetwork@gmail.com

Gail is going to interview as many BIT lady improvisers as she can this summer! To kick things off, Gail puts Peg Davis and Terry Armstrong  in the hot seat(s). Both girls are experienced performers who have lived many lives. BOTH women seemed to enjoy yelling at Gail - Terry maybe too much!? BION, Gail, and today's guests are all over 50. For extra credit, read Billy Merritt's Substack article on "Aging Out of Comedy!" Gail admits the ego boost she gets from being confused for a 49-year-old.  We hope you enjoy getting to know these funny ladies.  Listen, follow, rate, and share... PLEASE and THANK YOU! Be sure to come back on the 8th of each month for a new "snack-sized" episode of SHUT UP GAIL. Coming up in August! The Women of BIT - Part 2 - Amber Bellsdale If YOU want to yell at Gail, please email us at TheBITComedyNetwork@gmail.com "The BIT Spotlight" is part of The BIT Comedy Network. Be sure to visit www.BITComedyNetwork.com to check out our other podcasts or to apply to the ensemble.   CAST Gail: Hill Kane Themselves: Peg Davis and Terry Armstrong   MUSIC: "Zombie Clambake" performed by Little Kahunas | Produced by Peter Miller © "The BIT Spotlight" and "Shut Up Gail" are part of The BIT Comedy Network. Host, Producer, Director, Editor, Art, Co-Creator: Hill Kane Show Runner, Co-Creator: Billy Merritt Co-Creator: Paul Vato Production Assistance, Audio Production, & Graphic Art by Raising Kane Media + Marketing. Hosting Platform: Libsyn.com "The BIT," "The BIT Comedy Network," and "Shut Up Gail" are Trademarks owned by Billy Merritt. ©2025 Billy Merritt - All Rights Reserved Send inquiries + notices + requests: TheBitComedyNetwork@gmail.com

In this sixth and final episode of Samples of Sin, Rev. Justice Smythe invites his personal trainer, Pete Michelson, to help him review the album Permission to Land by British glam rock band The Darkness. Pete revels in the screamed vulgarities of the album, while Justice recounts that songs like "Stuck in a Rut" encouraged him to confess something to his wife. Pete compliments Justice on his well-developed quads and rainbow-colored leggings, while Justice finally admits he just needs his rear pew stuffed. CAST Justice Smythe - Konrad Andrew Pete Michelson - Luke Bovard Be sure to visit www.BITComedyNetwork.com to check out our other podcasts or to apply to the ensemble.   MUSIC: "Shark Bait" performed by Little Kahunas | Produced by Peter Miller ©   Get Your Hands Off My Woman and I Believe in a Thing Called Love by The Darkness | Used under 17 U.S. Code, Section 107 - Limitations on exclusive rights: Fair use.   Creator, Producer, Director: Konrad Andrew Senior Advisor: Luke Bovard Show Runner: Billy Merritt Editor: Hill Kane "The BIT Spotlight" and "Samples of Sin" are part of The BIT Comedy Network. Production Assistance, Audio Production, & Graphic Art by Hill Kane of Raising Kane Media + Marketing. Hosting Platform: Libsyn.com "The BIT," "The BIT Comedy Network," and "Samples of Sin" are Trademarks owned by Billy Merritt. ©2025 Billy Merritt - All Rights Reserved Send inquiries + notices + requests: TheBitComedyNetwork@gmail.com

In this sixth episode, Andrew, the technical director of the Regency Theatre, is joined by co-host, father and twitch stream watcher, Rodney, where they interview theatrical director Bertrand Fluffernutter about how living in a cave can help create plays. CAST: Andrew - Luke Bovard Andrew's Dad (Rodney) - Konrad Andrew Bertrand Fluffernutter - Don Slovin Have a question for the fine theatre folks at the Regency Theatre? E-mail us at backstageattheregency@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram at @backstageregency Follow BIT Comedy Network on Instagram at @bitcomedynetwork and Facebook  @BITComedyNetwork. "The BIT Spotlight" is part of The BIT Comedy Network. Created, produced, and edited by Luke Bovard Graphics/Art by Raising Kane Media + Marketing Special Thanks: Billy Merritt MUSIC: * Showtime - Cabaret - Revue by Julius H. * It's Showtime by VictorvanTast   Music provided by PixaBay Hosting Platform: Libsyn.com "The BIT," "The BIT Comedy Network," "The BIT Spotlight," and "Backstage at The Regency" are Trademarks owned by Billy Merritt. © 2024, 2025 Billy Merritt - All Rights Reserved Inquiries + Notices + Requests: TheBitComedyNetwork@gmail.com

FACT: Only 10% of Podcasts make to episode 3. This is Gail's 4th episode! Gail interviews Dr. Luke Bovard, one of the most intelligent and yet playful improvisers on the planet.  Luke was the first BIT Player to launch a Spotlight show on the BIT Comedy Network. Be sure to check out "Backstage at The Regency" if you haven't already. Anywhoodles, Luke's knowledge of Shakespeare, neuron star mergers, and r-process nucleosynthesis will impress and entertain you.  Find out: What made Luke fall in love with Improv!  What Luke's mandolin complains about. Which Shakespeare title describes his love life.       AND SO MUCH MORE.   Be sure to come back on the 8th of each month for a new "snack-sized" episode of SHUT UP GAIL. COMING SOON! The Women of BIT - Part 1 If YOU want to yell at Gail, please email us at TheBITComedyNetwork@gmail.com "The BIT Spotlight" is part of The BIT Comedy Network. Be sure to visit www.BITComedyNetwork.com to check out our other podcasts or to apply to the ensemble.   CAST Gail: Hill Kane Himself: Luke Bovard   MUSIC: "Zombie Clambake" performed by Little Kahunas | Produced by Peter Miller © "The BIT Spotlight" and "Shut Up Gail" are part of The BIT Comedy Network. Host, Producer, Director, Editor, Art, Co-Creator: Hill Kane Show Runner, Co-Creator: Billy Merritt Co-Creator: Paul Vato Production Assistance, Audio Production, & Graphic Art by Raising Kane Media + Marketing. Hosting Platform: Libsyn.com "The BIT," "The BIT Comedy Network," and "Shut Up Gail" are Trademarks owned by Billy Merritt. ©2025 Billy Merritt - All Rights Reserved Send inquiries + notices + requests: TheBitComedyNetwork@gmail.com

The fifth episode warns listeners not to listen to Velvet Underground's White Light White Heat. Gary Griswold, from River Creek Gas & Charcoal, joins Rev. Justice Smythe to recall that unlike most people who listened to White Light White Heat, Gary did not start a band -- but he did start a gas grill dealership. Gary and Justice review all six of the album's very sinful tracks, emphasizing the importance of listeners devotedly not listening to any of them, and Justice casually mentions that he likes to dress up sometimes.   CAST Justice Smythe - Konrad Andrew Gary Griswold - Luke Bovard Be sure to visit www.BITComedyNetwork.com to check out our other podcasts or to apply to the ensemble.   MUSIC: "Shark Bait" performed by Little Kahunas | Produced by Peter Miller ©   ____________, ____________ and, ______ by Velvet Underground | Used under 17 U.S. Code, Section 107 - Limitations on exclusive rights: Fair use.   Creator, Producer, Director: Konrad Andrew Senior Advisor: Luke Bovard Show Runner: Billy Merritt Editor: Hill Kane "The BIT Spotlight" and "Samples of Sin" are part of The BIT Comedy Network. Production Assistance, Audio Production, & Graphic Art by Hill Kane of Raising Kane Media + Marketing. Hosting Platform: Libsyn.com "The BIT," "The BIT Comedy Network," and "Samples of Sin" are Trademarks owned by Billy Merritt. ©2025 Billy Merritt - All Rights Reserved Send inquiries + notices + requests: TheBitComedyNetwork@gmail.com

In this fifth episode, Andrew, the technical director of the Regency Theatre, is joined by co-host, janitor (and fist bumper) Kjell Inge Ericsson, where they interview potential teenager theatre tech intern Topher Doyle about A-frames and Regency's resident theatre-ghost Constance on knowing Slimer from Ghostbusters.   CAST: Kjell Inge Ericsson - Thea Marie Thorkildsen Topher Doyle - Brent Kohler Constance - Terry Armstrong Have a question for the fine theatre folks at the Regency Theatre? E-mail us at backstageattheregency@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram at @backstageregency Follow BIT Comedy Network on Instagram at @bitcomedynetwork and Facebook  @BITComedyNetwork. "The BIT Spotlight" is part of The BIT Comedy Network. Created, produced, and edited by Luke Bovard Graphics/Art by Raising Kane Media + Marketing Special Thanks: Billy Merritt MUSIC: * Showtime - Cabaret - Revue by Julius H. * It's Showtime by VictorvanTast   Music provided by PixaBay Hosting Platform: Libsyn.com "The BIT," "The BIT Comedy Network," "The BIT Spotlight," and "Backstage at The Regency" are Trademarks owned by Billy Merritt. © 2024, 2025 Billy Merritt - All Rights Reserved Inquiries + Notices + Requests: TheBitComedyNetwork@gmail.com

Join Billy Merritt and his global gang of improvisers as he continues his delightfully chaotic journey through the many flavors of longform improv. Today's focus: PRETTY FLOWER — also known as Spokane, or "that thing that's kind of like Lost meets Marty meets at a haunted pie shop." Billy starts by tracing the roots of this character-driven form, developed with the group Sentimental Lady and inspired by layered storytelling (think Lost, but with fewer smoke monsters and more apple jam). The Pretty Flower starts with a single scenic mono scene—then "blooms" into supporting cutaways that explore character backstory, heighten stakes, or, sometimes, just celebrate a 74-pie menu. 🎭 In class, the students explore: 🧺 A struggling family-run apple orchard turned fall tourist trap 🥁 A post-championship hangover in a high school band room (with questionable closet storage decisions) 🥧 A pristine retro diner trying to re-create a 1950s vibe for a mysterious couple who might actually be… ghosts? Cut tos, cut backs, musical montages, and a possible mob-connected cleaner all show up in this episode full of bold initiations and gentle chaos. As always, Billy keeps it structured just enough to find the funny—and the heart. Today's students: Hill Kane – San Antonio, Texas Konrad Andrew - Saigon, Vietnam (today) Amber Bellsdale – Washington, D.C. Jason Luna - San Diego, CA (today) Adam S. - Philadelphia, PA (King of Prussia) Murphy McKew – Washington, D.C. Luke Bovard – Berlin, Germany

Sheeeeeeeee's Baaaaaa-aaaack! This month, Gail interviews one of the two comedians responsible for creating Gail and making her "Podfest" famous. As the story goes, during an improvised podcast set at the late-night Podfest '25 Comedy Showcase, Billy Merritt (Episode 1) and Paul Vato kept yelling at their producer Gail to stop interrupting them and to "shut up." All in character, of course, they are lovely guys who would never treat their producer that way. Anywhoodles, "Gail" produces and edits the BIT's podcasts but steps out of the sound booth and onto the mic to bring listeners a behind-the-scenes look at BIT.  Paul Vato is a true Renaissance Man - he's an accomplished comedian (stand-up and improv), character actor, cigar entrepreneur, and even has his own NFT called "VATO COIN." They cover a lot of ground so hold on to your butt, and enjoy! Gail has a great season lined up, so come back on the 8th of each month for a new "snack-sized" episode of SHUT UP GAIL. COMING SOON! The Women of BIT (aka BIT Babes)   If you want to yell at Gail, please email us at TheBITComedyNetwork@gmail.com "The BIT Spotlight" is part of The BIT Comedy Network. Be sure to visit www.BITComedyNetwork.com to check out our other podcasts or to apply to the ensemble.     CAST Gail: Hill Kane Himself: Paul Vato   MUSIC: "Zombie Clambake" performed by Little Kahunas | Produced by Peter Miller © "The BIT Spotlight" and "Shut Up Gail" are part of The BIT Comedy Network. Host, Producer, Director, Editor, Art, Co-Creator: Hill Kane Show Runner, Co-Creator: Billy Merritt Co-Creator: Paul Vato Production Assistance, Audio Production, & Graphic Art by Hill Kane of Raising Kane Media + Marketing. Hosting Platform: Libsyn.com "The BIT," "The BIT Comedy Network," and "Shut Up Gail" are Trademarks owned by Billy Merritt. ©2025 Billy Merritt - All Rights Reserved Send inquiries + notices + requests: TheBitComedyNetwork@gmail.com

For the fourth episode, local soccer hero Graham Truman joins Reverend Smythe to review the Scissor Sisters. Graham lived in the UK, where the Scissor Sisters found fame among the nation's arts and crafts enthusiasts.  Bringing personal experiences to bear on the album, Justice recalls feeling filthy but not exactly gorgeous, while Graham fondly recalls taking his mama out.  Exegesis of the gospel of Roger Waters is followed by an inquiry into which one's Pink, and an homage to the joys of friendship with Dorothy. CAST Justice Smythe - Konrad Andrew Graham Truman - Luke Bovard Be sure to visit www.BITComedyNetwork.com to check out our other podcasts or to apply to the ensemble.   MUSIC: "Shark Bait" performed by Little Kahunas | Produced by Peter Miller ©   Laura,  Filthy Gorgeous, and Return to Oz by Scissor Sisters | Used under 17 U.S. Code, Section 107 - Limitations on exclusive rights: Fair use.   Creator, Producer, Director: Konrad Andrew Senior Advisor: Luke Bovard Show Runner: Billy Merritt Editor: Hill Kane "The BIT Spotlight" and "Samples of Sin" are part of The BIT Comedy Network. Production Assistance, Audio Production, & Graphic Art by Hill Kane of Raising Kane Media + Marketing. Hosting Platform: Libsyn.com "The BIT," "The BIT Comedy Network," and "Samples of Sin" are Trademarks owned by Billy Merritt. ©2025 Billy Merritt - All Rights Reserved Send inquiries + notices + requests: TheBitComedyNetwork@gmail.com

Join Billy Merritt and his international bench of students as he expertly (and hilariously) guides them through specific iterations of long form improv. Today's class is ROAD TRIP - a character-based monoscene. Our players will be stuck inside a car* heading to a specific and important destination. Think "graduating members of the University of Fairfield, Connecticut's a cappella choir heading to Regionals in New York City." To make things fun, characters are developed over the set by being given GIFTS and answering QUESTIONS from their fellow travelers. Billy leads the "amorphous blob" exercise. Just two blank slates giving each other interesting gifts within BIG INITIATIONS: Clean Parker, Strong Cologne Game, Smart Glasses, Fashionable Color Matches, First Alien Abduction, Captain's Hat, and so many more! The class then plays "classic pairs." We are_______________, going to ________________. YEAH!!!!!!!! Then it's right on to seven people in a car going somewhere. Ergo, a group of accountants is off to visit a pillow factory. Finally, the class does a campfire monoscene in the road trip form. As a group, they "gift" their way to figuring out who they are to each other and why they are on this trip; and then do another round of "gifting" to go a little deeper into the wants and characteristics of the gang. You can HEAR how much fun the students are having giving and receiving these over-the-top gifts! I promise, Billy brings sense and purpose to all of this. Today's students (in order of "appearance"): Adam S. - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Tyler Drew - Seattle, Washington Hill Kane - San Antonio, Texas Jason Luna - Los Angeles, California Amber Bellsdale - Washington, D.C. Murphy McKew - Washington, D.C. Luke Bovard - Berlin, Germany *car, mini-van, paddle boat, etc. Next up: Monoscene: Pretty Flower (May 12)

In this fourth episode, Andrew, the technical director of the Regency Theatre, is joined by co-host, intern and inanimate object performer extraordinaire, Steckman. They interview parking lot valet Geraldine James about what cars tell you about a person and local miscreant Johnny Martini about doing donuts on lawns.    CAST Andrew - Luke Bovard Steckman  - Lisa Steckman Geradline James - Laura Powell Johnny Martini - Jason Spiro Have a question for the fine theatre folks at the Regency Theatre? E-mail us at backstageattheregency@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram at @backstageregency Follow BIT Comedy Network on Instagram at @bitcomedynetwork and Facebook  @BITComedyNetwork. "The BIT Spotlight" is part of The BIT Comedy Network. Created, produced, and edited by Luke Bovard Graphics/Art by Raising Kane Media + Marketing Special Thanks: Billy Merritt MUSIC: * Showtime - Cabaret - Revue by Julius H. * It's Showtime by VictorvanTast   Music provided by PixaBay Hosting Platform: Libsyn.com "The BIT," "The BIT Comedy Network," "The BIT Spotlight," and "Backstage at The Regency" are Trademarks owned by Billy Merritt. © 2024, 2025 Billy Merritt - All Rights Reserved Inquiries + Notices + Requests: TheBitComedyNetwork@gmail.com