Hugs and Pullups is:
Philip Buuck is proud of the accomplishments of Hugs and Pullups. While he enjoyed his time in college studying theatre in New York City, it wasn’t until his senior year that he discovered the joy of improv, and impulsively moved to Chicago immediately after graduation. He has been heightening that decision ever since, he is a graduate of the iO Theater, with studies at Second City, and the Annoyance Theaters, as well as acting coursework at Act One. Philip also enjoys playing guitar, watching the Cubs, and going home to his native Indiana.
Meg Kennedy was born and raised in “Live Free or Die” New Hampshire. She graduated from Boston College in 2007 with a degree in film studies and a concentration in history. While at BC, she spent four years as an actor, writer, and producer for the sketch and improv comedy troupe, Asinine. In 2009, Meg impulsively moved to Chicago to pursue her dreams of performing comedy; she has since studied at Second City, and is graduate of the iO Theater. Meg loves hugs, but is not so fond of pullups.
John Stiens is happy to be a member of Hugs and Pullups. While being a Cincinnati native, he has come to see Chicago as a second home. He is a graduate of the Second City Conservatory and iO Theater. He is a graduate of Ohio University’s Acting Program, graduating with a BFA. Since his move, he has done work with Rascal’s Children’s Theater as well as Mind the Gap Productions. John considers himself to be a full fledged nerd, enjoying comic books, Dr. Who, and video games.
Jared Swiecicki was born and raised in the great state of Michigan, however he now calls Chicago home. He received his degree in Integrated Public Relations from Central Michigan University, where he performed in a number of theater productions and was a member of Alpha Psi Omega, the National Honorary Theater Society. While at Central Jared was also an Irene Ryan nominee. He is a graduate of the iO Theater, and a proud founding member of Hugs and Pullups. When not on stage Jared enjoys sports, beer, and Mixed Martial Arts.
Brian Vabulas is a Chicago born actor/improviser. He is a graduate of The Second City’s Conservatory and Acting Programs, and is a graduate of the iO Theater. He is thrilled to be a founding member of Hugs and Pullups. He is proud to have performed in numerous shows throughout Chicago. Brian is also passionate about music, writing, and Abe Lincoln.
Joe Von Bokern hails from Boulder, CO, and is proud to be a founding member of Hugs and Pullups. A graduate of the University of Colorado’s theatre performance program, and is graduate of the iO Theater. Joe came to Chicago in 2007 to pursue a career in performance and is proud to have since worked with many talented Chicago companies and artists. When he’s not on stage, he enjoys contributing to the popular theatre blog Playbills vs. Paying Bills, watching cartoons, and cheering for his beloved Colorado Rockies.
Hugs and Pullups is Coached and Directed by Deanna Moffitt
