Sarah Reule is from Michigan, where she received an M.A. in Theater from Michigan State University. She has performed with The Second City in Chicago. Now she does the MainStage show and teaches improv and acting classes at the Skinny.
Where are you from and how did you end up in Springfield?
I was born and raised in Lansing, Michigan. I followed a boy here when he was offered a contract in Branson. It’s been six weeks, so far so good.
Where did you work at before coming here?
I performed with The Second City aboard the cruise ship, The Norwegian Spirit. We toured Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda while performing archived sketches and short form improv to Octogenarians and Spring Break’ers.
What brought you to The Skinny Improv?
When I was considering whether or not to move here, I knew I could only survive if I had a creative outlet, preferably doing improv. So, I actually Googled “Springfield Improv” and The Skinny came up. Turns out Jeff Jenkins and I have mutual friends in Chicago, and after doing some recon, I contacted Jeff and begged him to let me play. He obliged.
When did you start doing improv?
5 years ago. Chicago is known in the biz as “the funny city,” so as an actress I found myself on a lot of comedic auditions at which they would expect us to improvise, and that terrified me. I don’t like being afraid of things, so I decided to conquer it. I started by studying at the Second City Conservatory, found that I wasn’t too bad at it, and soon after started getting hired for actual gigs. It’s the American Dream!
What do you like most about doing improv?
That everything I say is right, as long as I justify it. If only real life were like that.
What do you think is most challenging about improv?
Depending on the study being quoted, we remember a dismal 25-50% of what we hear. It takes a lot of concentration to listen and retain the gifts our scene partners give us, but it’s integral to good scene work. We can avoid a lot of painful improv by just actively listening onstage.
Who are your influences or role models and why?
I think Bill Murray is the best, and not just because he reminds me of my uncle Larry. Most of my family is hilarious. I’m also a huge fan of Catherine O’Hara, Michael Keaton, and Alec Baldwin… basically the cast of Beetlejuice. Friends was a great example of an ensemble working together, I never get tired of that show (Seasons 4 through 10. Seasons 1-3 are unwatchable).
What is your favorite place in Springfield?
The Petland on Battlefield. They let you play with all the puppies, no questions asked.
What can make you laugh out loud?
America’s Funniest Home Videos, dry British humour, and never-ending bits with people I like. I’m lucky to have some really funny friends.
What is your favorite ice cream flavor?
Black Cherry
If you could choose one song to describe yourself, what would it be?
Marlene Dietrich’s version of “The Laziest Gal In Town”
Sarah is also a pretty good teacher of improv as well. I’m currently in level 2 at the Skinny and I have learned a lot with her in charge. She blends constructive critisism and leading by example to get through to her students. If anyone has interest in taking classes at the Skinny you will be in good hands.
How much am I getting for this reply again?