A SPONTANEOUS MOCKERY OF JUSTICE, INDEED
Now on for a short run through January 26 at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Theater, Synergy Theater brings an improvised spoof of the iconic TV series Law & Order. Complete with the signature “Chung Chung” between scenes, this show offers a hilarious and unpredictable take on the long-running crime drama.
The Interrogation: Griffen Davis Bier and Rachel Kumaar
Improvisational theater is a unique and challenging art form requiring quick thinking, creativity, and audience engagement. Performances can range from laugh-out-loud hilarious to awkwardly cringe-worthy, but that’s the thrill—it’s entirely unscripted, and anything can happen.
Since its debut in 1990, Law & Order (along with its many spinoffs) has become a staple of popular culture. Each episode follows a familiar formula: a grisly crime, tough-talking cops interrogating suspects, a dramatic arrest, and lawyers passionately arguing their case in court. Fans love watching justice unfold, and Synergy Theater’s Improvised Law & Order captures that same energy—with a comedic twist.
The Trial: Geraldine Carolan and Justin Carns
In this show, every performance starts as a blank slate. Audience members suggest a victim, a weapon, and a crime scene, and from there, the talented cast improvises the rest. Expect over-the-top interrogations, impassioned courtroom monologues, and plenty of surprises.
As in any Law & Order episode, the audience is kept guessing until the final moments. But here’s the twist: the audience actively decides the defendant’s guilt or innocence by voting with applause, making everyone an integral part of the drama.
The Family Torn Apart: Justin Carns and Valerie Regalia
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the TV show or new to the courtroom drama genre, Improvised Law & Order promises an engaging and laughter-filled evening. The interactive format ensures that every performance feels fresh and exciting, and the crowd’s involvement adds an extra layer of fun.
The ensemble shines, working off each other spectacularly well. Along with Justin Carns, Adam Ledeamyen, Ben Piper, Lynn Shields, Eileen Tumlin, and Nikki Vitason, the parts on the night I attended were:
Detective Alverez … Adrián Bosada
Detective Thies … Griffen Davis Bier
ADA Vicky Burns … Elyse Iovino
ADA Jonathan Steel … Kenn Adams
Defense Attorney Harrison Crofton … Arastoo Darakhshan
The Judge … Geraldine Carolan
Jane Doe … Rachel Kumaar
Jeremy Irons … Valerie Regalia
Catch this delightful parody before it wraps up at the end of January. It’s an experience worth the trip!
photos by Valerie Jord
Improvised Law & Order
Synergy Theater
Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. in Walnut Creek
ends on June 26, 2025
for tickets, call 925.943.7469 (Wed-Sun, 12-6pm) or visit Lesher Arts
