People You Should Know: Joe Avella

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In May of 2009, Joe Avella challenged himself to take the next step on his path as a filmmaker by writing, directing and shooting a full length film entitled “The Master of Inventions.” The film follows an ill-fated inventor trying to make good and was commenced with a very unique and difficult … [Read more...]

People You Should Know: Sarah Rose Graber

Sarah Rose Graber

Sarah Rose Graber graduated from Northwestern University's Theatre program and received her acting certificate from The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.  She has performed and directed in numerous theaters including Strawdog, Factory Theater, Noble Horse and Chemically Imbalanced Comedy. … [Read more...]

People You Should Know: Craig Uhlir

Craig Uhlir

Craig Uhlir was the first improv teacher I had in Chicago, and I couldn’t have asked for a more positive welcome to the city. Not only does Craig teach at Second City and iO, but he performs every week with the improv teams Deep Schwa and Middle Age Comeback...in short, one talented mofo. My first … [Read more...]

People you should know: Michael Girts

Mike Girts

Speaking from experience, I can say performing with Michael Girts is a real treat. The concept of ‘support’ in comedy is often preached by improv instructors, but Mike is a real practitioner of support, both onstage and off-stage. One of the nicest guys in the comedy community is also one of … [Read more...]

A Conversation with Seth Weitberg

Seth Weitberg

Seth Weitberg moved to Chicago three days after he graduated from Duke in 2003, and he hasn't stopped moving since. A talented writer, actor, comedian and improviser, Seth boldly goes wherever ambition and inspiration take him. I was lucky enough to snag 45 minutes of his day to have a wonderful … [Read more...]

A Conversation with Dave Pasquesi

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Dave Pasquesi never expected to be an actor. After studying philosophy at Loyola, he expected to attend business or law school. He was indeed already accepted to Kellogg’s MBA program at Northwestern when he made the decision to follow his passion for improvisation and performing. “ I … [Read more...]

Profile: Kelsie Huff

Kelsie Huff

As a zygote Kelsie Huff was stuck in her mother's womb-bone. It took some pullin' and yankin' but the good people wearing stiff scrubs got her out and only damaged her right ear flap with their shiny medical tools. But who really needs two ear flaps anyway? Ear flaps are overrated. Kelsie … [Read more...]

People You Should Know: Katy Colloton

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The lights go up and music blares as the improvisers run on to the stage clapping their hands and cheering for themselves. Within a few seconds, some performers drop their smiles and lower their energy, but Katy Colloton keeps a big smile on her face for the whole show. Humble and lovely, … [Read more...]

Profile: Walter Windchill, Stand-Up Comic

walter windchill Chicago stand-up comedian

Walter Windchill is the nom d'etage of a middle-aged Chicago gentleman who must conceal his secret identity lest he inadvertently say something true about his ex-wives. Mr. Windchill's alter ego is in his mid-50s. He has had two wives, two daughters, three careers and driver's licenses in seven … [Read more...]