25‑Year‑Old Groundlings Improv Show Keeps Audiences Laughing
The Crazy Uncle Joe Show, a 90‑minute improv staple at the Groundlings Theatre, marks 25 years of continuous performances. The cast—Jordan Black, Roy Jenkins, Ted Michaels, Stephanie Courtney, and Brian Palermo—continues to deliver rapid‑fire scenes built on audience suggestions, all while maintain…
By Felo News Desk · Published
For a quarter of a century, the Groundlings Theatre in Los Angeles has been home to the Crazy Uncle Joe Show, a 90‑minute improv spectacle that has become a fixture of the city’s comedy scene. Every Wednesday at 8 p.m., the cast—Jordan Black, Roy Jenkins, Ted Michaels, Stephanie Courtney, and Brian Palermo—takes three audience suggestions and turns them into a sprawling, rapid‑fire narrative that feels like a comedic sprint.
How the Show Works
Each performance begins with a simple premise. Black and Jenkins might start as exterminators whose entire identity hinges on their job, establishing character and stakes in a matter of minutes. A cast member then claps sharply from the sidelines, abruptly ending the scene and launching a brand‑new one that riffs on the details revealed. The rest of the show unravels through a barrage of ad‑libs, with storylines stacking up by the second. Yet no one is burdened with remembering every thread; the ensemble’s chemistry ensures that the audience only needs to keep up with the most recent twists.
Initially the show ran straight for 90 minutes, but during its run the cast decided to split it into two acts. The format has remained largely unchanged, with the only real evolution being a faster pace. Palermo notes that the cast “became a lot faster, so each individual scene goes so far.” The speed keeps the energy high and the audience on their toes.
The Cast and Their Chemistry
What began as a simple idea—an ensemble that could play off each other’s personalities—has blossomed into a tight-knit group of friends. The members are known for their flexibility and ease of collaboration. Courtney excels at old‑lady and whining‑teen characters, Michaels is a master of curmudgeons, and Palermo shines in space‑work. Black, who often plays the handsome type, can also pull off a wide range of roles.
Beyond the stage, the Joes share traditions like “Fakesgiving,” a Thanksgiving celebration held two weeks before the holiday. They also gather for group lunches and rehearsals that often blur into each other, creating inside jokes that occasionally surface during performances. The camaraderie is evident when guest performers from the Groundlings main company join the cast; they often remark on how “connected” the group is and how “gracious and giving” they are on stage.
Lessons Learned Over 25 Years
Long‑term improv has taught each member valuable life skills. Black credits the show with improving his listening ability, while Jenkins says it has helped him empathise with diverse perspectives. Palermo remains focused, and Michaels has learned to let go of things. Courtney notes that before each show she reminds herself to make her scene partner look good, a mindset that reduces nerves and turns a bad mood into a good performance.
Looking ahead, the cast is already contemplating another 25‑year run. Jenkins, now 64, muses about the possibility of an 89‑year‑old performer on stage, while Black simply laughs and says, “I’m already laughing.” The longevity of the show demonstrates that a committed ensemble, a simple improvisational rule, and genuine friendship can sustain a comedy act for decades.
In a world where many improv shows come and go, the Crazy Uncle Joe Show stands out as a testament to the power of consistency, collaboration, and the timeless appeal of “yes, and.” Its 25‑year milestone is not just a celebration of time but a celebration of the joy that comes from making people laugh together, week after week.
“There’s no money in this,” Black said. “We show up every week and go through traffic and all that because it’s so much fun.”
Key facts
- 25‑year run at Groundlings Theatre
- Rapid‑fire improv based on audience suggestions
- Core cast’s strong on‑stage chemistry and friendship
- Members credit show with life‑skills development
- Future plans for another 25‑year run
Why it matters
The Crazy Uncle Joe Show exemplifies how a dedicated improv ensemble can sustain creative energy and audience engagement over decades, offering a model for longevity in live comedy.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Crazy Uncle Joe Show?
It is a 90‑minute long‑form improv show performed weekly at the Groundlings Theatre in Los Angeles.
How many people are in the cast?
The core cast consists of Jordan Black, Roy Jenkins, Ted Michaels, Stephanie Courtney, and Brian Palermo, with rotating guest performers.
How does the show stay fresh after 25 years?
The ensemble’s chemistry, rapid‑fire pacing, and the use of audience suggestions keep the content dynamic and engaging.
Can I see the show live?
Yes, it performs every Wednesday at 8 p.m. at the Groundlings Theatre. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office.
What makes the show unique?
Its longevity, the tight‑knit cast, and the commitment to the improvisational principle of “yes, and” set it apart from other improv productions.
Sources
- [1] latimes.com — originally reported as “‘It’s five broken brains’: The Groundlings’ long-running ‘Crazy Uncle Joe Show’ keeps saying 'Yes, and. . . '”
