Born in a basement bar over a plate of tater tots (like all great things), Bad Medicine Comedy is DC Improv’s resident sketch comedy troupe that’s chock full of local talent. Performer Bethany Stokes describes Bad Medicine’s brand of humor as “the right amount of stupid.” She says that “people from D.C. expect you to be political, but we really don’t go there very often.” Instead of political jabs and Trump impressions, Isaiah Headen (the “Lorne Michaels” of Bad Medicine) wants audiences to “forget, let loose, have a good time, and laugh at something dumb.” In addition to his producing duties, Headen can be found in the writers’ room, working on a new Step Dad character and contemplating how to make use of the troupe’s collection of breakable wine glasses. Bad Medicine’s May* show, directed by Andy Weld and Sean Robinson, will feature the troupe’s signature slice-of-life comedy, including funny songs, video sketches, big characters, awkward moments, and audience participation. Skip that out-of-town comic, and instead shop local. Bad Medicine is dedicated to growing the sketch comedy community in D.C., post-pandemic. They even teach classes under the same roof. Headen’s goal is to “make D.C. the East Coast sketch city.” Bad Medicine performs at 7:30 p.m. on May 2 at DC Improv. dcimprov.com. $17.
Editor’s note: The show, originally scheduled for late April, has been moved to May 2.