THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Improv comedy is almost synonymous with the cult TV show Whose Line Is It Anyway. Apart from his comedy, Greg is also known to be the voice of cartoon Bob the Builder. Regular from the shows, comedian Greg Proops comes to India for the Black Dog Easy Evening, and we get an exclusive interview with him.
Since you’ve worked in Britain, how much of British comedy inspires your own style?
Quite a lot. I’m considered a somewhat sarcastic comedian in the US but because English people are so cynical, I’m considered an optimist there. I love Peter Cook, Dawn French, Jennifer Saunders and Phill Jupitus.
Tell us about your podcast, The Smartest Man in the World.
It’s a weekly affair that my wife and I put out. It’s a labour of love and it gives me a chance to talk about the things that are important to me like feminism, history, politics, music and literature.
Politically tense times always make for great comedy fodder. Do you think it’s easier or more difficult for comedians in such times?
I wish it was easier. I wish that the politics in the US were more settled. It’s not exactly a dream come true. It’s tough to try to be funny in the face of Mango Mussolini.
What is the next big thing in comedy?
I think the rise of women and people of colour is the most exciting trend. They’re getting to be heard the way white guys always were. Diversity makes for better comedy.