What I love about improv is that you can take the audience and yourself anywhere–literally anywhere. If you’re committed to the character and the reality of the scene, you’ll never run out of extraordinary possibilities.
What do you think is the most challenging about improv?
I don’t think improv is very difficult. A lot of people who don’t do improv might think it’s extremely difficult, while others may think it’s crazy that we even rehearse (“it’s improv–how can you rehearse?? RIGHT?!?!) Once you have the basics down, it starts to come as second nature. But since most people including myself are at least partly ADD these days, I’d have to say that actively listening in a scene is the biggest challenge. Super important, but very challenging.
A few words to someone who just started doing improv?
First of all, have fun. Why do it if you’re not having fun?? Second, don’t limit yourself to the mundane. Take chances. Big chances. There’s no point in being boring in improv, so if you’re going to fail, you should fail BIG!
What was one of the most unusual suggestions you’ve ever gotten from the audience?
I definitely cannot say it here, as it is inappropriate for the internets.
If not on stage, what do you like doing in your free time?
I love hanging out with good friends. There’s nothing better, especially when they can genuinely make me laugh. That’s why I love spending time with everyone at The Skinny–we are always cracking each other up!
If you could do one thing to change the world, what would it be?
To a certain degree, I’m already doing it! There’s nothing I want more than to bring some joy to people’s lives and show them love, and a great way to do that is with laughter. You’d be surprised how a person’s whole demeanor can change from the beginning of a show to the end!
What can make you laugh out loud?
Inside jokes with friends can make me do that. That laughing out loud. And of course a well placed “That’s what she said” joke. And also Flight of the Conchords. And Arrested Development. Those things all make me laugh. Laugh out loud.
Who are your influences or role models and why?
I’m definitely influenced by my Skinny Improv elders (Jeff and Jeff). That goes without saying. But outside of Springfield, my role models would have to be 2 performers from the IO Theater in Chicago, David Pasquesi and TJ Jagodowski (the blond guy from the Sonic commercials). They’re definitely the two most talented/gifted/experienced improvisors I’ve ever seen. They have a show every Wednesday night at IO called TJ and Dave, and it’ll seriously change your life. I still remember the characters and scenes from their show I saw almost 4 years ago! Definitely a must-see.
What is your favorite ice cream?
My favorite ice cream is anything that is primarily chocolate in composition. Ben & Jerry’s Phish Food ranks pretty high up there.
Dan Clair has been with the Skinny since 2004. In the past he’s performed in Improv Sportz and was also Jeff Houghton’s sidekick in The Mystery Hour. Now he’s one of the performers in our Mainstage show. He also teaches Level 1 improv classes, new round of which starts March 22!
I love Dan Clair.