Performers

Sheila Robertson, improv comedian and cast member of Monkey Business Institute

Sheila Robertson

Sheila Robertson, a professional fun haver, has been making people laugh with improv since the early 90s. Inspired at 14, she honed her skills across the country, performing and teaching. Now with Monkey Business Institute, Sheila brings the spirit of 'Yes, and...' to life for everyone.

Sheila Robertson teaching a Playshop at the 10th Annual UW-Madison Women & Leadership Symposium.

Improv In the Wild

Discover how improv comedy skills can transform your communication. Sheila Robertson's custom playshop at UW-Madison showcased how these techniques enhance personal and professional growth. Learn more about these valuable, lifelong skills and how they can benefit your team. Visit our Playshop page for details or contact us.

Headshot of Vanessa Tortolano

Say Hello to Vanessa Tortolano

Meet Vanessa Tortolano, a true Renaissance woman. Beyond her role in Monkey Business Institute, she's a stand-up comic, entrepreneur behind NessAlla Kombucha, musician, herbalist, and mother. Discover her journey into improv, her stand-up adventures, and the exciting projects she's part of.

Marian Halls, cast member with Monkey Business Institute

Meet Marian

Meet Marian, a dedicated cast member since 2016 and a regular performer in MBI's Improv Lab, Yes Ma'am. Discover her journey into improv, her passion for collaborative storytelling, and how improv's fearless approach has transformed her life and creative endeavors.

Join the company

You Could Be a Cast Member!

Dreaming of the improv stage? Monkey Business is looking to expand our cast! If you have class experience, improv background elsewhere, or are aspiring to be a professional performer, this is your chance. We're seeking new talent to join our company in the coming months. Get in touch!