Each spring, theater majors at William Peace University vie for the chance to become Idiots. Students audition to take part in an intensive course taught by the Raleigh improv troupe, which (surprisingly, for a group called the Village Idiots) prides itself on avoiding prop-based gags and gimmicks, instead focusing on scene-based sketches and musical accompaniment. The lucky student actors chosen to participate train alongside the pros to prepare for a three-night improv showcase of songs, long-form sketches and so-called "scene-based gameprov." It's the Idiots and their Idiot Proteges. Lovely. —Emma Miller