The Living Newspaper
1930s (origin) / 2000s-present (improv revival) · Nationwide
Also known as Living Newspaper Improv
Improvised scenes inspired by that day's news — a revival of the WPA Federal Theatre Project form by way of David Shepherd and the Compass Players.
Known for
- Original form was scripted agitprop by the Federal Theatre Project (1935-39).
- David Shepherd adapted it for the Compass Players in 1955 as an improvised opener based on the day's headlines — a direct line into all American long-form.
- Modern improv versions at Academy of Improvisation and other indie theaters: cast reads headlines live, then improvises scenes off them.
- Links improv to political/topical theater lineage — Federal Theatre Project → Compass → Second City → iO.
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