Improv Monster strums some comical chords this month

• Courtesy JaCKPie
• Improv Monster

Many monsters bare their teeth in October, but when it comes to the long-form comedy troupe known as JaCKPie, the baring of teeth is usually the result of a good laugh rather than a fright. In keeping with its tradition of inviting the talents of burlesque performers, stand-up comedians and other local creative types to be part of its monthly Improv Monster shows, this month JaCKPie’s all-star team invites some of Atlanta’s most innovative musicians be part of the fun.

Unlike that more famous sketch comedy show, “Saturday Night Live,” (which recently hired writers and cast members from Chicago’s iO, where JaCKPie founder Jim Karwish also studied), these musical guests won’t just perform a song or two, then pop up in a few skits. Instead, their performances will be an integral part of each show, with the troupe playing off the moods, lyrics and melodies for inspiration in their improvised skits.