MadLab Announces FFN's Date Night, 1/31-2/16

On Sarah Brunet: One word: Dedication. She auditioned for me a few years ago for a Theatre Roulette play called "Cat in Her Head". I, of course, already knew Sarah and had worked with her before. She was the ONLY actress who showed up to audition for that role with one of the monologues from that piece memorized. She wanted it. Bad. That goes a long way for a director. So during the rehearsal process for this show, we sometimes had to have Friday evening rehearsals. She was always willing to stay late and we would work together on character and motivation. It was an awesome experience. She will be missed. More than she knows.

Deep thoughts from FFN vet Josh Kessler: Wait, so is Erin really going to be performing with us instead of Sarah, or is this like that Melissa Bair/Michelle Batt swap that supposedly happened a few years back?

I'm sad to see Sarah leave, I'm happy to see Erin join, and I'm thrilled to still be the only person in the group with something other than two syllables in his first name.

It sucks to be losing one of Columbus's best improvateurs, but we're gaining another great performer. At least our brunettes to blonds ratio remains the same.

I wish I had the energy and commitment that Sarah has on stage. She is truly one of the best. FFN will not be the same without her.

Erin has been stepping in to play with us without missing a beat. That's a testament to what a funny, smart improvatuer she is. We're lucky to have her playing with us.

David Thonnings shares some of his favorite things about Sarah Brunet:

1. The kindest and the roughest French Canadian I know. Well, she's the only French Canadian I know.
2. "I got Belled!"
3. She can play the most believable old lady with hunched back and all!
4. Commits to a scene, to a character balls to the walls.
5. She can tell amazing childhood stories that always end up with the great dane being involved

And finally the woman of the hour, Sarah Brunet, reflects on her FFN years:

• From Love Hurts to this, 8 years with this troupe, they are like my second family. It still hasn't sunk in that I won't be here for the next show.

• There are too many people and memories to put in writing. Plus my memory sucks, so I will have the story all wrong! I have learned a lot from this troupe, from the coaching of Andy and Cruz, to the unique talents and special touches other troupe members brought to a scene. I am happy to have had the chance to work with so many talented people, especially when the troupe was 15 strong.

• I am so excited to get the chance to perform with Erin before I leave, but sad we only have this one opportunity. I am especially happy she is a brunette! Keeping the streak going!

• Oh and with all the press I am feeling no pressure to go out on a high note. :)