Soothplayers’ Completely Improvised Shakespeare is back for another Fringe season! The performers aim to construct a unique Shakespeare-esque play each night with nothing but their wits, love for the bard, and a little suggestion from the audience. Our performers enthusiastically greet the audience as they file into their seats and once onstage, offer a brief introduction to the concept of the show. Tonight’s show at suggestion from the delighted audience was “Thou Shalt (K)not Die”; a tragic comedy involving many (and a variety of) onstage deaths and a demon magic knot. The tangled web of villagers and nobles, love, and dramatic death scenes The Soothplayers mastery of the bard’s vernacular and improv were impressive; and clearly show their dedication to the craft. The actors bounce off each other’s energy in each scene, bringing each character hilariously to life. The performers cleverly weave together a tale of running jokes, witty references, and even allude to some of Shakespeare’s own (much less amusing) works. Equally impressive as the performers wit and comedic timing, were the improvised lighting mix and cues; adding the perfect blackouts and ambience to each scene. Our tale tonight involved: a Duke’s alcoholic brother in desperate need of an intervention, fishing orphans, stabbing the wrong person (again), and a rogue killer knot. The performers’ comedic instincts, improv prowess, and ability to weave together initially unrelated storylines with only a few non-straight faces at times; is a testament to their skill and practice at their craft.