VICTORIA - The Victoria International Improv Festival (VIIF) officially announced its line-up of performers today, bringing together some of the best improvisers from around the world to entertain and amuse Victorians in September.

"When we put out the call for interested troupes, we were overwhelmed with the positive response. In fact, we've had to turn away several troupes," said festival co-producer Jonathan Argue of the Impromaniacs. "We have put together a wonderful mix of performers and styles. This is going to be something amazing."

New to the festival this year include Die Gorillas from Berlin, Germany. This is their first trip to Canada, and they are looking forward to showcasing their skills here. Also making their VIIF debut is Yuri Kinugawa of the Yellow Man Group from Japan. Yuri has performed improv in New York, Chicago and has won international awards for her improv stylings.

Three Canadian groups are also making their festival debut in September. General Fools, from Regina, Rapid Fire Theatre, from Edmonton, and "C" is for Comedy from Vancouver will be trekking to the coast for their showcase.

Several troupes from last year's successful debut of VIIF are returning, including Unexpected Productions from Seattle, Vancouver TheatreSports League, and !nstant Theatre from Vancouver.

And as always, local troupes will play an important role in the festival. This year, we are proud to present two troupes from Victoria, Spilt Milk and Throw Us a Line, and Caught in the Headlights from Nanaimo. Of course, the Impromaniacs are going to get in on the fun, and will be performing as well.

"We are really looking forward to seeing all these troupes, and working together with them," said co-producer Neil Gurton. "Both the performers and the audiences should be in for a real treat as nightly improv jams will be a great mix of styles."

The Festival will run from September 16-18 at St. Ann's Academy. Check out www.viif.ca for further news.

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** Media contact: Stephen May, Media Liaison: (250) 388-3658, media@viif.ca **