Compass Cabaret 55

Director Mark Siska constructs a behind-the-scenes chronicle of Chicago’s improv theater history, highlighting the pioneering role of the Compass Players. This short-lived but essential cabaret troupe launched the careers of legends including Mike Nichols, Elaine May, Paul Sills, Del Close, Barbara Harris, and Byrne Piven, and became the model for Second City and SNL. Compass co-founder David Sheperd tells it like it was, and a wealth of interviews includes Shelley Berman, Ed Asner, Sheldon Patinkin, and Abner Mikva. Tales of brainstorms, breakthroughs, and personal rivalries are punctuated by priceless sequences of beloved Compass routines. A must-see for any theater or improv lover! (Barbara Scharres Gene Siskel Film Center)