ERIC BOUCHER
Writer, Performer, Instructor, Director, Producer
Writer, Performer, Instructor, Director, Producer
Inspired at an early age by the Muppets and Saturday Night Live, Eric became a co-founding member of PSP to bring that love of improv and satire locally to the greater Springfield area. He accidentally landed on puppetry professionally performing custom puppet shows for almost a decade where he co-created the "Phantom Sheep" character; but his talents and passion are mostly in writing and performance of sketch comedy with a purpose. Influences include The Second City, Kids in the Hall, his alma mata Sleeveless Theatre, his current co-troupe members, and of course SNL...and there's still a bit of Jim Henson's work in his heart.
He holds degrees in Communications and Theater. He studied improv, clowning, and character work with Sleeveless Theatre (instr. Kate Nugent, Van Farrier, Lisa Channer) progressing up to Masters course and Power Improv ensemble, along with continuous workshops with various other artists.
Eric has also created, scripted, and produced over 40 original shows for the theme park industry including licensed properties working with Warner Bros. & DC Comics writing for Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and The Joker; as well as many shows featuring his own characters in such Phantom Sheep hits as Mayhem Mission, Totally Timeless, StoryTale:Fumbled Fables, and Graveyard Groove.
He currently serves as the troupe's artistic director and head writer. As an instructor, he teaches improv, puppetry, and theater ranging from youth and beginners to advanced professional performers.
Eric also serves on the Artistic board and production advisor for Opera House Players in Enfield, CT, where he has designed several shows and directed "RENT", which was nominated for 9 Broadway World CT awards including "Best Director". He has also recently directed "Rock of Ages" (OHP), "Little Shop of Horrors" and "The Rocky Horror Show" for WNE.
Eric is married to Debbie (the sister of PSP co-founding member Jon Gill), and they have a wonderful smart amazing daughter who now sometimes even assists as a tech at improv shows. Together they love going to theater, playing video games, and building LEGO.
Recurring & Notable LaughCrafters Characters:
The Stamos, Harry Connick Jr., Grizz, Groucho, Sellvation Army, Soccer Mom, Jim Kramer, Bing Crosby, Ranter, news anchor, Adam Corrola, Gambit, Invisible Mariachi Band, Marty Stewart, Keystone cop, Edward Cullen, Harry Potter, Skip Gusto, Cake Boss Buddy, Priest, Dave Hester, Nicrolius the Mage, 42 News anchor, St.Thomas, Costco Rounder, Manger Doorman, Gary Wallace, Steve Kornacki, North Pole Trainer, and more.
Some favorite sketches:
"Manger Madness" (writer, actor)
"Best House on the Block"(Santa),
"Witch Mistrial"(writer)
"Doctor Refund" (writer, Mrs.Whitman)
"Zoom to the Groom"(script, editor, actor)
"Kornacki Christmas" (script/performer)