Early Life and Education
Hailing from the Midwest, Laura Grey’s interest in the arts was obvious from an early age. Her interests led her to study at Northwestern University, where she majored in creative writing, focusing on poetry. This grounding in writing would later inform her sharp comedic voice and storytelling abilities.
Breaking into Comedy
Grey’s journey into comedy began at The Second City in Chicago, a renowned improv theater where many comedic legends have emerged from. There, her performances earned her a Joseph Jefferson Award nomination in 2008 for Actress in a Revue. She also showcased her talents at other Chicago institutions like iO, the Annoyance, and ComedySportz, honing her skills in both improvisation and sketch comedy.
Transition to New York and UCB
Seeking more opportunities, Grey moved to New York City and joined the Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB). At UCB, she performed regularly and also taught improv to aspiring comedians. Her time at UCB allowed her to further develop her comedic style and work with a diverse group of performers.
Television and Writing Success
Grey’s talents caught the attention of television producers, leading to her role as a correspondent on Comedy Central’s “The Opposition with Jordan Klepper.” She was also head writer on the special “Jordan Klepper Solves Guns,” combining comedy with social commentary. Her work on these shows demonstrated her ability to handle tough topics with humor and insight.
Film and Festival Recognition
Outside television, Grey has made her mark in the film world. Her short films have been featured at prestigious festivals such as Slamdance, SXSW, and Tribeca. Notably, her animated rom-com “Ex-GirlFIEND” aired on FXX and Hulu’s “Cake,” showcasing her versatility as a writer and performer.
Collaborative Projects and Accolades
Grey co-created the series “Fairies” for IFC’s Comedy Crib and sold the pilot “House of Delta,” co-written by Megan Stein, to Universal Cable Productions. She also founded LASH, an all-female sketch team for UCB Digital, demonstrating her commitment to creating inclusive spaces in comedy.
Teaching and Mentorship
Grey’s dedication to the arts extends to education. She has taught creative writing and improv in Chicago Public Schools and worked as artistic director for an off-loop theater company. Currently, she continues to mentor aspiring performers, building the next generation of comedic talent.
Future Endeavors of Laura Grey
With a career spanning stage, screen, and classroom, Laura Grey continues to push the boundaries of comedy. Her distinctive voice and commitment to storytelling gives her a dynamic presence in the entertainment industry. As she takes on new projects and collaborations, audiences can expect more of her insightful and hilarious work.