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Brownstein: The Improvaneers 'redefine disability' with comedy, and they are pumped for JFL debut

27 0
23.07.2026

Their crew name mostly sums them up: The Improvaneers.

They do improv comedy and they are pioneers.

But it goes well beyond that: This cast is unlike that of any other improv comedy troupe anywhere, made up entirely of members with Down syndrome.

The Improvaneers will be making their Just for Laughs festival debut Saturday at Théâtre Sainte-Catherine, and patrons will be treated to a show unlike any they’ve seen.

“It’s part comedy, part social reckoning — and all heart,” says Rob Snow, a former standup and improv performer who is the creator/producer/director of the seven-member Improvaneers.

Snow started the troupe in 2018. His intentions were entirely personal.

Rob’s son Henry was born with Down syndrome, so his dad decided to apply his improv expertise to put together this ensemble — of which Henry is now a charter member.

Rob and Henry Snow, along with team leader Nick Doyle, are plenty pumped about their JFL debut, looking forward to catching the likes of Jerry Seinfeld, Gabriel (Fluffy) Iglesias and other wits here.

Nick, the self-described John Belushi of the bunch, is particularly thrilled about being at the same festival as Seinfeld.

“I’m such a huge fan of his — I grew up on his show,” says Nick, 37, in a Zoom call with Henry and Rob. “He once did improv as well.”

Interjects Rob: “We’ve been to many places and even won an award at a Fringe festival in Cleveland, but this is by far the biggest show we’ve ever undertaken.”

Henry, 17, realizes this could be the biggest........

© Montreal Gazette