12 Films. 12 Weeks. There are worse ways to spend a summer.

Two days ago, we announced that this weekend’s shoot would be our first foray into improvisational territory.  Since then, we have wasted no time in assembling a crack team of improvisers, all of whom will look eerily familiar to those of you who have seen “The Queen Bee of Mushroomtown.”

(For those of you who haven’t seen “The Queen Bee of Mushroomtown,” I strongly encourage it.  It’s a big part of the inspiration behind this project, and it’s pretty fun and pretty unique, and the rest of this post will make more a little more sense if you’ve watched it.)

First off, we have Mike Lavoie, the face of 12in12, whose immaculate bone structure has already graced “Old Love” and the upcoming “After Perfect.”  Mike has trained in improv at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre, which also boasts such illustrious alumni as Rob Riggle, Bobby Moynihan, Keith Boynton, and Brian Testa.

A totally candid photograph.

Next up, we have Angela Perri, the only human being on Earth who is better-looking than Mike.  Angela has also trained in improv, but I haven’t pressed her about the details.  A lady’s gotta have some mystery, after all.

Jaunty.

Angela joins us fresh from her triumphant appearance in “Shelter,” a play written by James Fauvell (the Dock Guy from “Queen Bee”) and directed by James “Guess I’m Gay” Creque.  And speaking of James Creque …

A genial scholar.

Rounding out the cast we have James Creque, gentleman actor and Jack-of-all-trades.  James has no formal improv training, but if you’ve seen him work the room at O’Flaherty’s on Restaurant Row, you’ll understand why I’m not worried.

And, returning to the director’s chair after a two-week-long hiatus, we have me.  It’s odd to say, but it really does feel like a long time since I’ve had the chance to direct.  And I’ve missed it.  And I’m excited to dive into the fray again — especially with this talented group of actors (and friends) by my side.

Also exciting: I’ve got the ending all worked out!  Now if only I can get these damn talented actors to play ball and get us there …

(“But wait a minute!” you may say.  “How can it be an improvised movie if you’ve worked out the ending?”  Well, the dialogue will be improvised.  And the ending will change if the dialogue seems to demand it.  And also, WHO ARE YOU TO QUESTION ME????)

Stay tuned for more madness!  “After Perfect” is up tomorrow.

Posted by Keith