Simple Town: A New York Comedy Collective's Journey to London

Simple Town, a New York-based sketch comedy group, is making waves as they bring their unique style to London. Comprising Sam Lanier, Felipe Di Poi, Will Niedmann, and director Ian Faria, the collective describes themselves as “four teens in their 30s.” Despite their playful moniker, the group faces significant challenges in the competitive landscape of comedy. Lanier notes that while UK production companies see potential in them as a bridge to the American market, they have struggled to gain traction in the U.S. comedy scene, stating, “no one fucks with us in America.” The group does not rely on Simple Town for their livelihood, instead balancing day jobs while pursuing their passion for comedy.

The Guardian

Simple Town's performances are characterized by a fluid, improvisational style that resonates with audiences. Their recent set at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival showcased a series of sketches that blend silliness with deeper themes, such as a sketch about NASA engineers grappling with a female colleague and a firing squad sketch reflecting on modern America. Niedmann emphasizes that while they aim for humor, they also strive to convey the experiences of young left-wing individuals in America, stating, “I think we’ve written some sketches that actually convey something about what it means to be a young leftwing person in America.”

The Guardian

The group's approach has evolved from the structured style of the Upright Citizens Brigade to a more open-ended format, allowing for spontaneous moments that enhance audience engagement. Di Poi explains, “We like to drop into ourselves in moments, to drop out of character, to do what’s remembered rather than what’s written.”

The Guardian

Despite not attracting the attention of major television producers, Simple Town has garnered a dedicated following among comedy enthusiasts. Their performances are described as endlessly funny, with Di Poi likening their dynamic to that of a band. However, the economic realities of being a five-member group pose challenges, as they acknowledge that their passion for comedy may not lead to financial success. Niedmann candidly states, “The realisation we have is: it won’t ever make us money. We just do it because it’s been such a joy and a meaningful part of our adulthood and our friendship.”

The Guardian

While they remain open to financial opportunities, Lanier adds, “But we’re open to making money from it.” This blend of passion and pragmatism defines Simple Town's journey as they continue to navigate the complexities of the comedy world.

The Guardian

• “We don’t make a living doing Simple Town at all,” — Sam Lanier, Member of Simple Town

The Guardian

• “I think we’ve written some sketches that actually convey something about what it means to be a young leftwing person in America,” — Will Niedmann, Member of Simple Town

The Guardian

• “The realisation we have is: it won’t ever make us money. We just do it because it’s been such a joy and a meaningful part of our adulthood and our friendship.” — Will Niedmann, Member of Simple Town

The Guardian

• “If you want to give us money, we won’t say no.” — Felipe Di Poi, Member of Simple Town

The Guardian