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How The Upright Citizens Brigade Stormed City Started Scene And Changed Comedy

Thomas Powell

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Published in High Status Characters: How The Upright Citizens Brigade Stormed A City Started A Scene And Changed Comedy Forever

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In the early 1990s, a new wave of comedy was emerging out of New York City. A group of young comics, led by Amy Poehler, Matt Walsh, and Ian Roberts, were pushing the boundaries of improv and sketch comedy. They called themselves the Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB),and they were about to take the comedy world by storm.

UCB's early shows were a mix of improv, sketch comedy, and performance art. They were often raucous and unpredictable, but they always managed to be funny. UCB quickly gained a cult following among comedy fans and critics.

In 1998, UCB opened its own theater in the East Village. The theater became a hub for the troupe's performances, as well as a showcase for other up-and-coming comedians. UCB also began producing its own television show, which aired on Comedy Central for three seasons.

High-Status Characters: How The Upright Citizens Brigade Stormed A City, Started A Scene, And Changed Comedy Forever

4.1 out of 5

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The Upright Citizens Brigade's success helped to launch the careers of some of the biggest names in comedy today. Amy Poehler went on to star in the NBC sitcom "Parks and Recreation." Matt Walsh starred in the HBO series "Veep." And Ian Roberts is now a writer and producer on "Saturday Night Live."

UCB's impact on comedy is undeniable. The troupe helped to popularize improv and sketch comedy, and they paved the way for a new generation of comedians. UCB also helped to create a more inclusive comedy scene, one that welcomed performers from all backgrounds.

Here are just a few of the ways that UCB has changed comedy:

They helped to popularize improv and sketch comedy. Before UCB, improv and sketch comedy were largely confined to small, underground theaters. UCB's success helped to bring these genres to a wider audience.
They paved the way for a new generation of comedians. Many of the biggest names in comedy today got their start at UCB. Amy Poehler, Matt Walsh, and Ian Roberts are just a few of the many comedians who have been influenced by UCB.
They helped to create a more inclusive comedy scene. UCB has always been a welcoming place for performers from all backgrounds. The troupe has been a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in comedy.

The Upright Citizens Brigade is a comedy institution. The troupe has been making people laugh for over two decades, and they continue to be one of the most influential forces in comedy today. UCB's legacy will continue to inspire and influence comedians for years to come.

If you're a fan of comedy, then you need to check out the Upright Citizens Brigade. You can see them perform live at their theater in the East Village, or you can watch their television show on Comedy Central. No matter how you experience them, you're sure to have a good laugh.

High-Status Characters: How The Upright Citizens Brigade Stormed A City, Started A Scene, And Changed Comedy Forever

4.1 out of 5