Marion, Ohio – Entertainment seekers can enjoy a live comedy event at the Marion Palace Theatre May Pavilion this weekend. Shovel City Improv will take the stage on Friday, August 14 at 7:30 p.m.

“The staff and board have been very thoughtful about our reopening process that we are implementing for live events,” said Bev Ford, executive director of Marion Palace Theatre. “We know people are eager to return to venues for entertainment provided they feel confident that we’ve created a safe and comfortable environment. With that goal, protocols have been implemented, and we are now ready and excited to welcome back guests for Pavilion events.”

Marion’s own improv troupe, Shovel City Improv will be the first entertainers to take the May Pavilion stage since the theatre’s reopening. These hometown comedians keep audience members laughing with interactive sketches at each performance. The rotational pool of seasoned stage actors includes Daniel Bradshaw, Kim Bradshaw, Mike Cochran, Bruce Cudd, Diana Dailey, Hannah Fuller, Justen LaPlante, and Eric Mosley. Taking the phrase “audience participation” to a whole new level, members of the audience suggest random ideas for the games and skits that the actors perform on the spot. Nothing is scripted, so it becomes a night of unpredictable fun. This event is recommended for ages 16 and older. Tickets for this event are $10. Seating is limited to allow for social distancing; patrons are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance.

The Palace first returned to limited activity in June offering guests movie-going opportunies. “Along with successfully opening our doors as a movie house, we held small group theatre camps in July,” shares Ford. “While it has been a slow start, it is a start, and I’m grateful for that. The process may look a little different, but it doesn’t take away from the excitement of bringing back the theatre-going experience.”

Enhanced protocols in accordance with current local health and safety guidelines are in place. Guests will find staff and volunteers in face masks, hand sanitizer in high-touch surface locations and will be assisted in seat selection to assure proper spacing. Safety policies and guidelines will continue to evolve with time and will be assessed and updated on an ongoing basis. For the most up-to-date information regarding safety procedures, please visit marionpalace.org.

Tickets can be purchased online 24/7 at marionpalace.org or in person or by phone at the Palace Box Office, 276 W. Center St. in downtown Marion from 11am to 1pm on Mon, Tue, Thu, and Fri when staffing is available. In addition to live entertainment, the Palace also shows movies. Please visit the Palace website for movie titles and show times.