Yes, Also Yes, Also - Jason Mantzoukas
26 snips
Aug 5, 2025 
Jason Mantzoukas, comedian and longtime UCB improviser known for The League and How Did This Get Made?, shares stories about early inspirations and his improvising roots. He connects jazz drumming to tempo and listening, explains playing helpful chaos without derailing scenes, and describes bold moves, backline play, and transformative improv notes that keep shows moving.
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Generosity Fuels Dynamic Improv
- Jason Mantzoukas admired Amy Poehler for being mischievous, generous, and dynamically shifting status to serve scenes.
- He valued her infectious backline laughter and bespoke adjustments to each partner's play.
The Subaru Seller Who Kept Returning
- Jason recounts John Glazer repeatedly playing an Israeli car salesman across different scenes and shows.
- That recurring mischief taught him about creating a character that returns to cause funny problems.
Shared Discovery Is The Magic
- Mantzoukas argues discovery is the bedrock of improv and the audience shares that first-time surprise with players.
- That shared discovery is what produces genuine laughs and makes live improv unique from recorded work.
