Improvisational comedy was invented on the northeast corner of 55th Street and University Avenue. Initially, the group presented short, scripted “plays” that were devised by improvisational games in rehearsal. Admission was free. The group only made money from sales at the bar. One night, the theater was performing for a capacity crowd. The bartender, Fred Wranovics, pulled director Paul Sills asi
de and asked him to extend the show so he could sell another round of drinks. Without any additional scripted material prepared, Sills decided to present a third act comprised entirely of the same improvisational games that the company had been using in rehearsal. Needless to say, it was a huge success. Soon, the Compass Players ditched scripted material altogether in favor of improvised performances that became known for pointed social satire and political commentary. By 1958, the group splintered. Company members Mike Nichols, Elaine May and Shelly Berman went to New York where they quickly gained national acclaim. Director Paul Sills moved north and co-founded The Second City. In the subsequent 57 years, improvisational comedy has become a cornerstone of the global entertainment industry directly influencing theatre, film and television programming around the world. This year, The Revival will return improvisational comedy to its birthplace.
