Welcome to the Team: Brian Gioielli, Production Manager
We're excited to officially welcome Brian Gioielli as our new Production Manager at Danger Boat Productions!
Brian is a professional problem-solver, relationship-builder, and all-around get-it-done guy. With a background spanning philanthropy, event management, and operations, Brian knows how to keep things running smoothly while making sure everyone’s having a great time.
Bridging Communities Through Laughter and Conversation
Danger Boat Productions is using improv comedy to turn civic discussions into engaging performances across Minnesota. As part of Twin Cities PBS’ (TPT) America 250 initiative, Sketches of Minnesota brings communities together through humor, conversation, and storytelling.
Throwback: Our 2012 Interview on We the People
What happens when you mix public policy with improv comedy? In 2012, The Theater of Public Policy set out to prove that big ideas don’t have to be boring. That summer, we had the chance to share our mission on We the People, a local TV program hosted by Joan Higginbotham and produced by the League of Women Voters. Now, more than a decade later, we’re revisiting that moment and why it still matters today.
The Power of Improv: Making Complex Conversations Accessible and Engaging
In today’s fast-paced world, complex conversations—whether about policy, leadership, or social change—can feel overwhelming, inaccessible, or even dull. But what if learning about these important topics could be fun, engaging, and downright hilarious?
Hey! Where Does This Bus Go? – Celebrating the Anniversary of a Transit Adventure
A few years ago, a simple question—Where does this bus go?—led to an unexpected journey through the heart of the Twin Cities transit system. Hey! Where Does This Bus Go?, a web series created in partnership with Metro Transit, set out to highlight the quirks, joys, and everyday adventures of public transportation. From surprising hot dish debates to heartwarming commuter stories, the series showed that the bus is more than just a ride—it’s a window into the city’s vibrant community.
Revisiting "The History of Minnesota – Unscripted" at the 2014 Minnesota Fringe Festival
In 2014, The History of Minnesota – Unscripted! took the Minnesota Fringe Festival by storm, blending real historical stories with fast-paced improv comedy. Each night, a different expert historian shared a compelling tale from Minnesota’s past, which our improvisers then transformed into unpredictable, side-splitting scenes. Critics and audiences alike loved it—so much that it became one of the top-attended shows of the festival. Let’s take a look back at what made this show so special!
Good, but not Great, Laws for only $0.50
Are you tired of political gridlock? Do you wish there were a faster, easier way to pass laws—without all the messy debates and partisan drama? Well, we at Danger Boat Productions have the answer: The Law Machine—a groundbreaking (and totally ridiculous) invention that automates the legislative process. We debuted this futuristic approach to lawmaking on Almanac (Twin Cities PBS), and the results were as absurd as they were insightful. Would you trust a vending machine with the power to create laws? Watch the full sketch and decide for yourself!
Sketches of Minnesota: A Civic Comedy Tour Photos
Thank you to everyone that came out to see Sketches of Minnesota: A Civic Comedy Tour.
The Danger Boat team collected stories in each of the ten communities they visited in the 2024 tour. Last night's show was a scripted (mostly) performance that reflects some of what we heard and learned across our state.
How a Conversation About Cake vs. Pie Made a Big Impact
What if a lighthearted debate about cake vs. pie could teach people how to have more respectful, meaningful conversations? Over 8,500 people have watched our comedic sketch as part of the Respectful Conversations Project, learning how ground rules and humor can transform difficult discussions.
At Danger Boat Productions, we specialize in creating engaging content that helps people communicate better. Read the full story and discover why structured conversations matter now more than ever.
Why Every Workplace Needs an Improv Workshop (Hint: It’s Not About Comedy)
Team-building activities often feel forced and ineffective—but what if there was a way to strengthen workplace collaboration while having fun? Improv-based training helps teams build trust, improve communication, and develop adaptability through interactive exercises. Unlike traditional corporate training, improv workshops create a safe and engaging environment where teams learn to connect, support one another, and embrace new ideas—all while laughing together. Learn why companies are turning to improv as a powerful tool for professional development.