Why "Mile Hi-Larity?"

In 1881, an entertainer named Stanton Miles arrived in Denver, on his way to California. Stranded in Denver by a particularly harsh winter, he made a living performing a musical/comedy act. Because he could not read, he would perform by memory, and when he could not remember particular lines or lyrics, he would make them up. Sometimes, he would ask his audience for suggestions, and base a song or skit around the suggestion. Stanton Miles thus became the first documented "improv" performer in Colorado.

One character in particular became an audience favorite, a Scotsman named 'Angus MacLarity'. Miles would begin his show by coming onstage and shouting, "Hello audience!" at which point the audience would enthusiastically respond, "Hi MacLarity!" Eventually, his show became known as the 'Stanton Miles "Hi MacLarity" Minstrel Show of Musique, Comedie, and Magik." However, MacLarity did not go over well with Denver's Scottish population, which felt the Scottish character was but a shallow stereotype. Ever-sensitive to the plights of the Scottish immigrant, Miles changed the characters name to 'Andrew Larity', and the show title was shortened to the "Miles 'Hi Larity!' Show.'"

With the melting of the winter snows, a triumphant Stanton Miles left Denver and continued westward to seek fame and fortune. Where he went, and what he did when he got there, is not known - there is no other recorded information about Stanton Miles.

Being improv performers, we wanted to pay tribute to this man, Stanton Miles, the overlooked father of Denver improv. He was a true innovator, and a pioneer in his own right. Thus, we named our group "Mile Hi-Larity," as a derivation of the "Miles 'Hi Larity!' Show.'"

We can only hope that our performances do that show, and its brilliant creator, justice.