Lou Gonzalez
New York,NY
Summary
Dedicated arts professional with extensive experience in show programming, talent development, improv instruction, and diversity initiatives. Veteran performer with nearly 20 years of experience in improv, sketch comedy, and character writing/performance. Proven track record of creating inclusive programming and leading organizational policies in fast-paced creative environments. Featured on NPR Life Kit for innovative BIPOC-focused improv direction. CBS Diversity Showcase alum
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Improv Instructor
UCB Theatre
New York, NY
01.2016 - Current
- Taught core curriculum as well as advanced classes.
- Directed performance for class shows, synthesizing feedback and giving clear, actionable notes to students
- Created and developed student shows celebrated at the theatre, including an All Queer and All BIPOC Advanced Class (the first and only of its kind at UCB).
- Was on Harold/Lloyd Audition Panel (2023-2025)
- Hosted several student shows, including Teacher Feature, Improv Jam, Diversity Jam, and The Lottery.
- Taught corporate workshops including Hulu & Cartier,
- Instructed NYC public school teachers and students as part of the Teen Improv Festival.
Academic Associate
UCB Theatre
New York, NY
01.2023 - 01.2024
- Vetted and hired teachers for sketch, improv, and character classes.
- Design and oversee the curriculum across all levels, ensuring alignment with game philosophy and changing culture.
- Collaborate with leadership to update develop new teacher and student policies.
- Assisted in managing and solving student and teacher concerns.
Comedian and Teaching Artist
Self
02.2014 - Current
- Performed live shows (Asssscat, Duchovny, Standup, UCBTourco) , engaging diverse audiences with tailored humor and storytelling.
- 2019 CBS Diversity Showcase Alum
- Booked for several comedy festivals (Bremen Comedy Comedy Festival, Fun & Dumb, Copenhagen improv festival) as a director and performer
- Filmed Maude Night and Characters Welcome from 2012-2014
- An improv acting coach for Nike Commercial 2022
- Directed Lloyd, Harold and Maude teams
- Performed on Bigger with Brennan and Izzy at the Beacon Theatre
- Appeared on The Other Two, Helpsters, Blackbear as an actor
Artistic Director
Squirrel Comedy Theatre
New York, NY
01.2023 - 11.2023
- Led the artistic vision and programming for all mainstage shows and special events.
- Mentored emerging artists, fostering professional growth and enhancing overall production quality.
- Developed strategic partnerships with local organizations to expand outreach and increase community involvement in events.
- Curated corporate workshops for companies such as WGA East & Spotify,
- Designed promotional materials that effectively communicated artistic themes and attracted broader audiences.
School Director
Squirrel Comedy Theatre
New York, NY
01.2020 - 01.2023
- Develop and oversee the implementation of academic programs and policies that align with the institution's mission and vision.
- Manage and create the Squirrel Diversity Program, which allocated free classes and workshops for minority students.
- Create and coordinate corporate workshops and curriculum.
- Develop and communicate COVID-19 policies to staff and students.
- Manage schedules for various classes and class shows.
Education
Bachelor's degree - Mass Communications
CUNY Lehman College
Bronx, NY01-2008
Skills
- Strong communication skills
- Public speaking
- Class instruction
- Lesson planning
- Adobe Premiere, Photoshop, Illustrator
- Graphic Design
- Photography/Videography
- Google Sheets
Timeline
Academic Associate
UCB Theatre
01.2023 - 01.2024
Artistic Director
Squirrel Comedy Theatre
01.2023 - 11.2023
School Director
Squirrel Comedy Theatre
01.2020 - 01.2023
Improv Instructor
UCB Theatre
01.2016 - Current
Comedian and Teaching Artist
Self
02.2014 - Current
Bachelor's degree - Mass Communications
CUNY Lehman College