SFU Speaker Series: Matt Besser

Few names are as synonymous with Improv as Matt Besser. A founding member of the Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) along with Amy Poehler, Matt Walsh and Ian Roberts, Besser’s credits include appearances on Late Night with Conan O’Brien, Spin City, Frasier, Human Giant, Curb Your Enthusiasm, How I Met Your Mother, Reno 911, Key & Peele, Parks & Recreation, & Comedy Bang! Bang!

But it’s his approach to improvisation, along with his fellow UCB founders, that has made an enormous impact on the entertainment industry.

The UCB has been a breeding ground for stars like Scott Aukerman (Comedy Bang! Bang!), Andy Daly (Review), Lauren Lapkus (Orange is the New Black), Bobby Moynihan (Saturday Night Live), Adam Pally (Happy Endings), Ben Schwartz (Parks & Recreation, House of Lies), and Harris Wittels (Parks and Recreation, Eastbound and Down).

As part of his speaking engagement at SFU Vancouver, Besser performed a live version of his celebrated podcast improv4humans with members of Vancouver’s own the Sunday Service.

The Sunday Service is Ryan Beil, Caitlin Howden, Kevin Lee, Aaron Read, Taz VanRassel, and musical director, Emmett Hall.

With over 20 Canadian Comedy Award Nominations, a CCA Best improve Troupe Award in 2012, and international recognition, The Sunday Service present to audiences across North America a fast-paced and singular take on the traditional long form.