Athena Aktipis Improv with The Armando

Author of the best-selling book, A Field Guide to the Apocalypse: How to Survive in Our Wild Times, Aktipis will make an appearance as the guest-monologist at The Armando Diaz Experience, perhaps proving that even in the face of disaster, laughter can be a powerful source of comfort.

“This appearance is especially meaningful to me,” said Aktipis. “As a teen and a native Chicagoan, I was a frequent visitor to Chicago’s improv scene.”

“Our cast will take ‘suggestions’ from Athena’s stories, whether they are personal monologues, references to her work, or moments of insight,” said Gretchen Eng, producer of The Armando and Director of Professional Development and Partnerships at the iO Theater. “This allows us to improvise scenes inspired by Athena’s life and experiences.”

“This show is longform improv at its best; a symbiotic format that thrives on authenticity and collaboration. We can’t wait to host her,” said Eng.”