Alumni News

How did you get started with improv?
When I was 19, I was in a play in Indianapolis. During a rehearsal, someone missed an entrance. Instead of stopping, I just made up action and dialogue for a of couple minutes until he entered. The director told me I would be good at improv. I had never heard of it, so I looked into it.

What brought you to ComedySportz?
In 1998, ComedySportz was the only improv available in Indianapolis, so I auditioned and made it. In 2007, when I moved to Chicago, I auditioned in June (even though I didn't move until September). I was asked to join as a holiday player in October.

What sets ComedySportz aside from the other improv you have done?
The ensemble at CSz is so much more of a family than any other group I have known. The first practice I attended, I was treated as a friend. As time passed, the members of the ensemble became some of my best friends. The level of trust on stage is so strong because of those friendships. It's never work, just fun.

What kind of shows are you doing now, and how has ComedySportz prepared you for performing elsewhere?
I am back to doing ComedySportz in Indianapolis. Thanks to the added experience, I've been offered a position as Assistant Director in CSz Indy. I'm also working on a two-man long form show. In my spare time, I am producing stand up shows and musical cabarets. The time in Chicago helped me with my confidence and delivery for stand up. I looked up to people like Rance Rizzuto and Tara DeFrancisco for having such a strong stage presence and try my best to copy it every time I step on stage.

What is something you miss about performing ComedySportz?
The energy of the room during every show is amazing. Even with a small house, the music, the lights, and the performers make every show spectacular. The level of talent is ridiculous.

What do you like to do when not performing?
I teach. From kindergarten to high school, amateur improv students to corporate professionals, I love working with people who want to learn.