Michael again, and I’d like to talk about a book I’m re-reading right now. It’s called Days and Nights at the Second City by Bernie Sahlins. Days and Nights is one-half memoir and one-half direction on putting up a Second City-style revue performance. I’m digging deep into this book with good reason: come this Fall I’ll be performing on a cruise ship as part of a Second City show. That’s right, when not talking books, I perform improv and sketch in front of paying audiences. If you’re not laughing at my blog posts now then I assure you that I am a fantastic straight man.
I’d like to take a minute to talk about the author, Bernie Sahlins. You see, a week ago, Bernie passed away. Now, I never met him, but Bernie has touched my life in some ways. He was one of the founders of the Second City Theater. He remained with the Second City as a producer and director through to the 1990s, and he’s credited with discovering talents like John Candy and Bill Murray. He’s a pretty big deal for people like me.
My first connection with the Second City Theater is through their training program: that’s where I received my first professional training as a performer. The mainstage players at Second City were my rock stars. And I devoured as much information as I could about the theater—its sense of history and relevance was exciting to be part of, even in my small way. So I read every book about improv and the Second City I could get my hands on. And thus I found Days and Nights. Bernie’s book is filled with comedy wisdom, and has provided me inspiration and ideas for years. Now, when my contract begins, I get to be one of my rock stars and call myself a Second City performer. A big part of that name is filled with Bernie’s heart and soul. So, I want to say thank you, Mr. Sahlins, for everything you’ve done. I hope to make you proud.
