History Of Radio Sketch Comedy THE USUAL SUSPECTS

This episode of Word Balloon celebrates sketch comedy on the radio by interviewing Barb Wallace and Tom Wolfe, former members of the Chicago-based comedy group "The Usual Suspects" from WXRT. Wallace and Wolfe discuss their comedy influences, ranging from Alan Sherman and Bob and Ray to Nichols and May, and their experiences at Second City. They detail how "The Usual Suspects" formed organically from late-night beer-fueled sessions after Second City shows, evolving into sponsored comedy breaks. The duo also reflects on their move to Los Angeles, writing for television, and their Chicago-centric play, "Early and Often," a political satire. They touch on the changing landscape of comedy, the digital platform, and the challenges of entrepreneurialism in the arts.