MUNCIE, Ind. — For the members of ABSOLunacy, Ball State University’s improv comedy troupe, saying “yes, and” has shaped more than just their comedy—it’s transformed their college experiences.
Led by co-presidents Cosmos Bwambok and Shyanne Mitchell, the group, also known as ABSO, continues to grow both on and off stage. The troupe, which specializes in short- and long-form comedy, provides students with a space to express themselves, develop confidence, creativity and build connections.
“It is running the practices but also behind the scenes—creating our games list, warmups and deciding what we want to focus on that week,” Mitchell said.
ABSO’s practices often include games like “One Word at a Time” and “The Accepting Circle”, designed to help creativity flow and use teamwork with the group. For Bwambok, the impact of these activities extends beyond just the rehearsal.
“It changes how you interact outside of just ABSO,” Bwambok said. “You are more comfortable in social atmospheres and more comfortable being yourself—being wacky, weird and goofy.”
The group’s hard work has earned them awards, including titles such as Best Improv Troupe 2023 and Most Engaging Social Media 2024. ABSO’s influence reaches beyond campus, with performances at festivals and venues across the Midwest. ABSO even has reunions with the alumni.
“We do reunion shows, festivals, we travel,” Mitchell said. “It’s a lot of great opportunities to meet people from different fields and make new friends.”
For many members, the troupe has become a family atmosphere. Bwambok said joining ABSO transformed his time at Ball State.
“When I joined ABSO and finally found people I can have fun with, perform with, get out of my comfort zone but also bond with, and have a family experience, it changed my whole experience here. It’s been a dream really,” Bwambok said.
Whether through workshops or performances, ABSO continues to push students to step out of their comfort zones and into new opportunities.
For more information about ABSOLunacy and its upcoming events, visit their Instagram.
Contact Mira Bloomer with comments at mira.bloomer@bsu.edu
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