Compass was modeled after the Italian improvised troupe, Commedia Dell Arte, 16th century-18th century. Formed on the fundamental concepts of Viola Spolin’s theatre games, Compass began in 1954, birthed in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood which surrounds the University of Chicago. The Cold War, Atomic Age, McCarthyism and American consumerism, were all key components which created the need for something new: “a release at a time when it was needed; that is why it exploded,” according to Compass player Shelley Berman. For more info about the Compass Documentary, check out the Studio207 web site at www.studio207.tv or contact Mark SIska at mark@studio207.tv Less