The Katydids improv troupe bring “Teachers” to TV Land
January 14, 2016 Mark Says Hi! Features, Reviews, Television
Teachers is based on the web series of the same name by the improv group The Katydids, and is written by the six members of the group who also star as elementary school teachers. The 10-episode series kicks off tonight on TV Land with the talents of Caitlin Barlow, Katy Colloton, Cate Freedman, Kate Lambert, Katie O’Brien, and Kathryn Renée Thomas on display. It’s pretty clear where the name “Katydids” comes from.
Some additional names that have had great success are attached to the show as well. Alison Brie (Community) as executive producer, Ian Roberts (Upright Citizens Brigade) and Jay Martel (Key and Peele) are showrunning, and Richie Keen (It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia) knocked out the pilot as director. The hilarious Tim Bagley (Knocked Up) is in the fold as well.
In the show, the teachers show their hilariously warped perspective as they try to mold young minds, even though their own lives aren’t really together. The chemistry between the cast is definitely there and that’s no surprise. In the first episode, we see said teachers organizing a school’s mandated anti-bullying campaign only to make it way worse. Despite the plot, the premiere’s true mission last night was to set up each character’s quirks, flaws, ticks, and short-comings. Ms. Snap, obsessed with appearance. Ms. Watson, unstable. And Ms. Adler, desperate for revenge. The show takes advantage of Community‘s Alison Brie by throwing her right in the middle of the chaos as Ms. Adler’s enemy.
While the show has it’s funny moments, it will take more than just this one episode to see if the show will be able to stand on its two feet. The potential and talent is definitely there, it will be a matter of how it’s used. The next episode finds the ladies in another classic situation we’ve all dreaded back in school, picture day. Rob Riggle guest stars, here’s a tease of what’s to come.
Teachers airs on TV Land Wednesdays 10:30p – And in case you missed it, you can watch the pilot episode here.
