The Best of (The Original) An Evening at the Improv

Even with the occasional lame skit and gratuitous musical number, comedy gold can be found in this compilation from the cable-TV series An Evening at the Improv, which began in 1982. The comics on parade here at the Los Angeles branch of Bud Friedman's Improv range from the great ones early in their career (Phil Foster introduces young Jerry Seinfeld as having been in standup for only about the last half-hour) to others who never became household names, but perhaps should have (Marc Weiner, Maurice LaMarche). Viewers will see Michael Keaton before his acting career and Robert Townsend prior to his becoming a film director. Other stars here include guest hosts Leslie Nielsen, John Byner, James Coco, Ed McMahon, Don “Father Guido Sarducci” Novello, and—reminiscing about working with/covering for Lenny Bruce—Mort Sahl. Rising comics include Arsenio Hall, Steven Wright, Howie Mandel, Jim Carrey, Richard Lewis, and Elayne Boosler ("Pac-Man is the history of the Jewish people—being chased while eating."). And look for celebs in the audience, including Johnny Carson and Pia Zadora. Serving up 12 hours of comedy from over 100 comedians, this set admittedly features some dated material, but also some gem routines, and the price is right. Highly recommended. Aud: P. (C. Cassady)