The Groundlings is an improvisational comedy troupe based in Los Angeles, California, USA. The troupe was formed by Gary Austin in 1974 and uses an improv format influenced by Viola Spolin to produce sketches and improvised scenes. The troupe moved into their current location on Melrose Avenue in 1979. Many Groundlings performers have found success in movies and television, including several who have become cast members and writers on Saturday Night Live, MAD TV, and Reno 911!. The Groundlings School sees over 1,000 students per year go through their program. The competitive program consists of 4 levels (Basic, Intermediate, Writing Lab and Advanced). Participants must be successfully advanced from each level by the instructor. After completing the Advanced level, one may be voted into the Sunday Company, which performs on Sunday. Members of the Main Company are selected from members of the Sunday Company. The current Executive Director of The Groundlings is Dan Fishbach who has led the company since December, 2006.
