Today we’d like to introduce you to Some Black People
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Formed in late 2023, Some Black People emerged as a response to the scarcity of POC teams in the St. Louis improv scene. All five members met at The Improv Shop, located in The Grove, after graduating separately from the training program offered there.
Charles Harris, Kendall Bennett, Aaron Moore, Jessica Silas, and Donovan Crowder came together at Steve’s Hot Dogs and started planning in November. Becoming fast friends, they debuted on the mainstage at The Improv Shop on January 20th, 2024 to a sold-out crowd. Since then, they have performed a series of headlining shows at The Improv Shop and have been invited to perform at Delmar Hall this summer. Their growing recognition includes features in the Riverfront Times and appearances on KMOV. With upcoming festivals later this year, Some Black People sees no limit to their future or potential.
Some Black People hopes to expose more minorities (specifically Black people) to the healing and transformative power of longform improvisation, community and laughter. By amplifying their own voices, they hope to attract other people to The Improv Shop and to the artform in general.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The journey has encountered minimal challenges, as the improv community in St. Louis, particularly at The Improv Shop, has been incredibly supportive, welcoming, and encouraging. The majority of negative commentary arises from outside the community, especially when the group is highlighted in local news segments. The critical voices often raise questions such as “Why do they need to do this?” “Why choose such a controversial name?” and “Are they even deserving of these opportunities?”
In response, Some Black People takes to the stage, displaying an impressive range of talent and enthusiasm. Audience members can vouch for the authenticity of the camaraderie, the heartfelt laughter, and the remarkable teamwork that truly merits the spotlight.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Some Black People is a group specializing in St. Louis-style longform improvisation. Their performances feature a unique emotional perspective, well-defined relationships, and robust patterning. While eliciting laughter from the audience is a significant goal, the true essence of their art lies in respecting the authenticity of the scenes and the moments depicted, which resonates with a diverse audience.
The group’s mission is to introduce more Black people to the longform improvisation scene in St. Louis, MO, and beyond. They achieve this by organizing entertaining and captivating shows locally and nationwide.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
As members of Some Black People honed their longform improv abilities, they were guided by the teachers at The Improv Shop. The shop’s exceptional training program encouraged members to embrace key improv principles, such as releasing the ego, fully agreeing with teammates, and providing steadfast support—qualities of outstanding mentors.
The commitment of The Improv Shop’s instructors extends far beyond the classroom; they assist students throughout the program and after graduation. Instructors frequently invite recent graduates to collaborate, facilitating a seamless transition from student to performer through ongoing guidance and support. A notable example is Alayna Huthsing, a current instructor who also provides weekly coaching to Some Black People, promoting their development and nurturing their connections.
Pricing:
- Tickets range from $5 to $25
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/SomeBlackPeople
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/someblackpeopleimprov/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558559185558
- Other: https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/060060AEB5C93F85?brand=delmarhall&camefrom=cfc_delmarhall_webcc
Image Credits
Some Black People Collage – Kendall Bennett
Made Up In St. Louis Poster – Ryan Myers
Photography by Micah Daniel Lewis
