Improv Interviews Chris Mead-Dedicated Improviser
May 18, 2024
In this lively conversation, Chris Mead, a seasoned UK improviser, teacher, and director, shares his journey from childhood acting to leading creativity at Maydays and the Nursery. He reflects on the growth of the London improv scene, influenced by pioneers like Ken Campbell, and the shift from scripted to improvisational theatre. Chris dives into his creative newsletter, Improv Fables, and the meticulous process behind it. He also reveals his upcoming mockumentary class, intertwined with a love for Christopher Guest films and personal comedy favorites.
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Edinburgh Moment That Changed Everything
- Chris watched Baby Wants Candy at Edinburgh Fringe and knew instantly he wanted to do improv for life.
- He then worked front of house for their entire month-long run to learn from them up close.
From Sporadic Gigs To Daily Practice
- For eight years Chris only did improv during annual stints with touring troupes while holding a development job.
- He finally found regular classes in London around 2009 and began doing improv five times a week.
Sabbatical Study That Launched Teaching
- Chris took a three-month sabbatical to study intensives at IO, The Annoyance, and the Hideout in the US.
- That immersive study convinced him he could start teaching and shaped his teaching approach.
