Jamie has been an active improv comedian since 2005 and has had the honour of performing with esteemed colleagues and in acclaimed venues all over the world, in cities including London UK, New York NY, Chicago IL, Atlanta GA, Toronto ON, and all over his native country of Canada.
Jamie’s improv origins date back to his sophomore year in high school, when he was selected to be a part of his high school improv team.
“It is the first time in my life I could remember feeling gifted. I had a talent that I loved to do. It was a new and amazing experience.”
This love of improv, and dedication to his growth is what got him involved with the Edmonton improv giant Rapid Fire Theatre having been scouted from the 2006 Nosebowl High School Theatresports Tournament. It was there, in the renowned Varscona Theatre that he cut his teeth with some of Alberta’s sharpest comedians, actors, and playwrights, and performed weekly for full and energetic audiences for what would be 9 years.
“My roots are in Edmonton, I love the city and my people, but I found that my craft grew exponentially every time I toured to a new place. I realized that to reach my full potential, I couldn’t limit myself. I had to leave. I had to move to Toronto.”
After moving his career across the country, Jamie immediately began performing with Toronto’s top tier talent in the city’s most coveted improv shows and timeslots. Presently, he can be seen performing weekly at both Comedy Bar and Bad Dog Theatre, and will occasionally drop in as a special guest at the famous Second City Toronto.
Throughout his career and experience, Jamie has also garnered the status of “teacher” in the improv world. He has facilitated both public and private workshops, classes, and coachings for all manner of student. From those just starting out learning the basics to the experienced veterans sharpening a style/format, Jamie has worked with them all. For more information on Jamie Cavanagh the improv teacher, click here.
Selected Festivals and Appearances:
Die- Nasty Soapathon | Die- Nasty (Edmonton, CAN) | 2008, 2009 and 2010
World Domination Theatresports Tournament | Dad’s Garage Theatre Company (Atlanta, USA) | 2007, 2011
Improvaganza | Rapid Fire Theatre (Edmonton, CAN) | 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012
London 50 Hour Improvathon | Adam Meggido (London, UK) | 2009, 2012, 2013, 2017 and 2019
Chicago Improv Festival | Chicago Improv Festival (Chicago, USA) | 2011 and 2012
The St. Valentines Day Massacre | VTSL (Vancouver CAN) | 2013
Big City Improv Festival | Comedy Bar (Toronto CAN ) | 2016, 2017 and 2018
Jamie Cavanagh 