Inside Out Underwear ~ IOU
Janelle Ranek – actor, writer, director, educator and superhero.
With over 20 original comedy shows and more than 50 unique characters, she has been part of the Twin Cities comedy scene for decades. Her long-running “Letters to Santa” series at The Bryant Lake Bowl has been a holiday tradition for nearly 25 years and her work has been called “consistently and viciously funny” by the Star Tribune.
Janelle has performed on numerous local stages including The Jungle Theater and Park Square and was a core member with Stevie Ray’s Comedy Troupe. She has written and directed numerous original works. As an educator and facilitator, she brings her expertise to classes, professional development workshops, leadership training, and artist-in-residence programs, using comedy and improv as a tool for communication and connection. She is founder of Inside Out Underwear IOU.
EXCITING NEWS! I’m BACK teaching improv classes! These classes are really taking off ~ if you’ve ever wanted to try something new, get out of your comfort zone, or rediscover the art of PLAY! Sign up now!
Scan the code to register! Scroll to Adult & Senior Enrichment SEARCH “IMPROV” and new class search “PUBLIC SPEAKING” Or follow the links below to register now!
ADULT IMPROV CLASSES!! “Improv-Ability” – This is a beginning class where you will learn improv games, techniques, and the power of “Yes, and…” Learn the benefits of improv in your daily life, and start your improv journey! Wednesdays 6:00 – 8:30 Sept 16, 30, Oct 7, 14, 21 https://slpcommunityed.arux.app/course/9946/adult-enrichment-2026-2027/improv-ability “Advanced Improv” – (some experience required) In this class you will continue your improv journey ~ honing your skills, learning performance games. The session ends with an Improv Showcase for family and friends! Tuesdays 6:00 – 8:00 Sept 15, 22, 29 Oct 6, 13 https://slpcommunityed.arux.app/course/9947/adult-enrichment-2026-2027/advanced-improv-on-stage *NEW CLASS* “Public Speaking Without Panic” – Public speaking can create more anxiety for some people than jumping out of an airplane — but it doesn’t have to. This class helps you build confidence speaking in front of others in a supportive, low-pressure environment. Practice impromptu, informative, and persuasive speaking while learning techniques to manage nerves, engage an audience, and speak with confidence. Wednesdays 5:00 -6:00 Sept 16, 30, Oct 7, 14, 21 https://slpcommunityed.arux.app/course/9948/adult-enrichment-2026-2027/public-speaking-without-panic
My signature character Gloria ~ the iconic martini swilling crass old broad.
Check out Gloria with Chris Egert from KSTP MN Live! at the MN State Fair!!
https://kstp.com/special-coverage/minnesota-live/janelle-ranek-a-k-a-gloria
I created Inside Out Underwear for a couple of reasons. It’s funny and reminds me not take myself or the world too seriously. Two, the acronym IOU ~ this reminds me to give back.
This is me on the left, Janelle ~ On the right is my beautiful wife, Brenda. Below is Lady Roo Toastcrumb, our German Shepherd, she does not take good selfies.
