Meet The MaD JaCKRaTS created by Lauren Patrice Nadler

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lauren Patrice Nadler and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lauren Patrice, what do you attribute your success to?

Originality, commitment, teamwork and now longevity are the most important and joyful things about the LPNSImprov “Makin’ a Movie” with The MaD JaCKRaTS Show.

We are a unique comedy show that has been running for 9 years. We were actually running a lot longer than that in the classroom when my partner Tina, who at the time was my student pulled me aside and said “this cannot stay only in the classroom, we have to take this out into the world”. So that is what we did together, and that was the birth of The MaD JaCKRaTS.

We are a unique and hilarious comedy show. The troupe is comprised of members and alumni of Lauren Patrice Nadler Studios. Over the 9 years we have introduced additional troupes, such as The BaBY JaCKRaTS, The MiNi BaBY JaCKRaTS, The MaD JuNioR JaCKRaTS and the RooKie RaTS

This show is themed each month and opens with a musical number or sketch created to match the theme. Then we launch into 3 – 4 fleshed out improv segments in the LPNStudios format that we call “Makin’ a Movie” … and we do in fact make spontaneous movies right before your eyes.

Several cast members and alumni are making a huge splash in the industry with very successful careers such as Kyle Allen (The Haunting of Venice) and Rudy Pankow (Outer Banks) and Micky Shiloah, with his Instagram/TikTok series where he plays 64 characters, himself …literally @mickyshiloah

This show would not be possible if not for the contributions of generations of members of my acting studio Lauren Patrice Nadler Studio. They are the most talented and determined group of people. They are all welcome to work to qualify to perform and many do, while also jumping in with the crew each month. Team work makes the dream work and we know from experience

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

I am an artist in many ways but through many experiences I landed on teaching acting and directing over two decades ago. I still dabble in acting a bit myself but teaching and directing became a true calling. It became even more evident as my students started to take off in big ways.

I started acting in NY, and teaching bi coastal until I moved to LA. I planted my roots and have been at it for 22 years.

My methods are rather unique. I’m completely self taught while blending several techniques that I myself had learned as an actor in various classes, the rest is instinctual. The reality is that people are people and everybody is different and we don’t all respond to the same thing. So my goal is always to individualize my teachings, so that each actor can find their voice in the work.

My journey did not follow any one path by any means. I spent some time on sets learning behind the scenes in different crew positions working my way up. There was a period of time where I was without a home and couch surfing just to stay true to my art. I just couldn’t get a “real job“. However, I don’t recommend that. I’m a big fan of getting rooted and grounded so that you can focus and and be accountable. I don’t believe that anyone has to be a poor struggling actress/artist.

It’s never easy, but certain wins make it worth the struggles. Overcoming fear, of failure is a big one for me, but honestly just staying true to myself being steadfast, and to never stop believing in the dream is the answer.

The lessons I’ve learned have been countless, and they’re mine. We all have our own lessons to learn on our journey. A hard lesson: Sometimes you just have to let it flow and trust.

This show, The LPNSImprov “Makin’ a Movie” … the truth of the matter is, this show is a product of the flow…of trust!! It just happened out of my creating art and instinctually just setting a tone for what I was doing in the classroom and my teachings turned into something much more. Out of that, the show was born, naturally. Keeping it going isn’t necessarily natural, it is still a lot of work LOL but it’s certainly gratifying.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

Honestly I would HIGHLY recommend my show … to anyone and everyone!! Should you be here on the third Sunday of the month (and I recommend you plan it that way;) this show is a GREAT time!! First of all it is hilarious, and never fails!! It’s a great date night and its kinda kid friendly …with an edge.

We have our after party at a cool spot called District Pub, in Noho Arts District. Also a great social area with lots to do, just stroll up and down Magnolia Blvd. Oh lets not forget the theater we do the show in… MKM Cultural Art Center. They have a event almost EVERY day of the week. But in general, I don’t get out much because I teach all day, every day when I am not preparing this show. Truth is, I am that busy creating art.

If you asked me a few years ago about hot spots and events I could tell you. I am still trying to find my legs after lockdowns. Last week I went to a wedding for one of The MaD JaCKRaTS, it was magnificent. But I’d say if you are coming to town, let’s see who has a screening coming up or a show, and we’d plan from there. There is always something to do. Even sitting in on one of my classes is fun.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

Tina Orloff she is my partner and produces the show with me each month and Micky Shiloah and Kuali’i Wittman contribute additionally with creating our opening number