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Improv Nation: How We Made a Great American Art

Review

Improv Nation: How We Made a Great American Art

IMPROV NATION traces the roots of improvisational comedy from 1940s immigrant Chicago to its manifestation in nationwide mass media today. Author Sam Wasson, through a series of interviews and prodigious research, has compiled the most detailed study of stand-up, improvisation and comedy that has been seen in print so far.

Do not pick up this book if stand-up comedy irks your nerves, though you will be endlessly amused and informed if you thrive on jokes that push social limits. It is not surprising that IMPROV NATION is written in the spirit of improvisation --- first bringing to life young Chicagoans experimenting in their homes to later practitioners like Bill Murray, and leading into the present day with leaders such as Amy Poehler and Stephen Colbert. This is just to name a few, as Wasson name-drops hundreds of comedians you might know, and many more you do not but probably should.

"Sam Wasson, through a series of interviews and prodigious research, has compiled the most detailed study of stand-up, improvisation and comedy that has been seen in print so far."

IMPROV NATION represents the most comprehensive study of American stand-up comedy and improvisation, put together in an enjoyable and well-researched book. There is no better source to trace the history and evolution of improv --- which is very much intertwined with the city of Chicago and its theater troupe Second City. Recollections and reenactments of famous sketches show how a simple skit can move from a joke between friends to the big stage on “Saturday Night Live.” There are pictures of the comedians as well. Who would not want to see a half-page picture of Chris Farley?

Wasson strikes an emotional, almost sentimental tone as he recounts the lifelong friendships that were made by amateur comics who often showed up with little money but plenty of drive and tons of talent. The stories of how they drew material from their experiences and emotion from their circumstances are remarkable, and their spark of comedic genius is magical. Minor skits about meaningful topics are shown to have become famous on Broadway, on television and in the movies. This is a story of friendships, struggle and success.

IMPROV NATION hits home when it discusses the modes of culture and collaboration. Actors learn to make up for each other’s mistakes, and make something from nothing. The spirit of freedom and creativity that was practiced by these artists has advanced their careers and personal growth. In fact, American improvisation was developed in its official form by a social worker. She noted that many of the ’40s Chicago youth did not share a culture, language or background of any kind, but through spontaneous games and mimicking, there was a cohesion they could hold together. Sam Wasson articulates how out of this American melting pot was born improvisational comedy, and the rest is history.

Reviewed by John Bentlyewski on December 15, 2017

Improv Nation: How We Made a Great American Art
by Sam Wasson