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Back to the Source: The Compass Players and the Birth of Improv Comedy
Today, improv comedy is a global phenomenon, fueling hilarious shows and nurturing the careers of countless comedic actors. But where did it all begin? Look no further than The Compass Players, a groundbreaking Chicago troupe that emerged in the mid-1950s. The Compass Players were a motley crew of dreamers and innovators, led by the visionary Paul Sills. But their secret weapon wasn’t just…
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David Shepherd: A lifetime of Improvisational Theater (VIDEO Documentary Film)
It was David Shepherd’s vision to create Compass. He and Paul Sills co-produced Compass (1955 – 1957), after working together on the Playwrights Theatre Club (1953 – 1955). Compass directly led to the creation of Second City (1959). David Shepherd went on to produce other Compass companies from 1959 – 1964, in St. Louis, Washington DC, Boston, Hyannis MA, and New York. David Shepherd also…
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Viola Spolin - Wikipedia
This is the story of Viola Spolin and her building the foundations of improvisational theater. Set aside an hour and watch this. So many of the folks who have entertained us have an origin tied back to this woman's life-work.
Honestly, happy tears every time I watch this.
And it happened in Chicago.
Bonus Round!
Viola Spolin and the Origins of Modern Improvisational Theater
Modern improvisational theater, known for its spontaneity, creativity, and wit, owes much of its development to the pioneering work of Viola Spolin. Often referred to as the “Mother of Improv,” Spolin’s innovative techniques laid the foundation for the improvisational theater we know today. In this blog post, we’ll explore the life and contributions of Viola Spolin, shedding light on how her…
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Ed Asner, who rose to fame as the crusty but lovable newsman Lou Grant on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," died Sunday morning, his publicist co
The Compass Players: Severn Darden, Larry Arrick, Elaine May, Shelley Berman, Mike Nichols, Rose Arrick & Barbara Harris; Chicago; ca. 1955.
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Sheldon Patinkin RIP
A couple of hours ago, I glanced at the Chicago Tribune’s weekly obituaries and noticed that of Theodore J. Flicker. I thought to myself “Not many of the founding fathers of improv are left. Thank goodness we still have Sheldon…”
And now, we don’t.
If one were making a list of the most beloved figures in Chicago improv, Sheldon would be right up there, and deservedly so. His lineage goes way back…
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