NORFOLK, Va. - The Push Comedy Theater continues to work through the challenges of the pandemic like many other small businesses throughout Hampton Roads.
News 3 spoke to Brad McMurran, a co-owner and creator at the theater, to talk about how they are staying afloat and what they have planned for the future.
Push Comedy Theater is a place that provides joy and laughter and before COVID-19 they were hosting sold out shows. They are a 90-seat venue in the Arts District in Downtown Norfolk. They host improvisation classes and training.
McMurran said COVID-19 has put a major strain on their operation.
“It's been really tough and small businesses can tell you this all across the state,” said McMurran, “It's funny, I never ever believed that I would be political until you're in it. We're not getting a whole lot of help and that's been really frustrating.”
This Portsmouth native said he’s traveled the country teaching improvisation to over 30,000 people over the years. He was performing at a show in Las Vegas every month until COVID-19 hit.
McMurran said he loves teaching improvisation more than anything in the world. He has taught people in corporations, those in the medical field and many other groups.
He said COVID-19 has forced the theater to make changes to how they operate. They have held virtual classes and plan to do more of them.
McMurran said they are also planning to use the plot of land across the street from the theater to host outside events.
“The Unusual Suspects is coming to the plot,” said McMurran.
He said the theater is teaming up with La Brioche and other businesses in the Art District to host events in March. He said the event will be similar to a murder mystery dinner and everyone will be spread out.
“This all depends on COVID, we're all crossing fingers but that's planned for March 12th,” said McMurran, “The 10th annual Panties in a Twist, the all girls show is coming back again.”
He said future plans depend on what happens with COVID-19, but he is optimistic.
“I've had a great community here that's kept us alive. We are still alive. We're going to have a season, but it's been hard,” said McMurran.
Check out their website for more information.
