(photo courtesy of city of L.A.)

City Councilman Paul Koretz, 5th District,  presented Groundlings cast members Lyric Lewis, Laird Macintosh, Lauren Burns and Laraine Newman with a proclamation from the Los Angeles City Council on Oct. 11.  Since 1974, The Groundlings cast has entertained audiences, which has been the foremost comedy training ground and springboard for countless careers including  Melissa McCarthy, Will Ferrell, Maya Rudolph and Kristen Wiig, among others.

“We never imagined that The Groundlings would represent Los Angeles, and yet have a reach further than that producing writers, actors, directors, talk show hosts, Emmy Award winners and even Academy Award winners. I’m so proud of what The Groundlings has achieved. I’m especially proud that our level of excellence has made us the home team for Saturday Night Live. On behalf of The Groundlings, I want to thank you so much for this incredible honor,” Newman said.

The Groundlings Theater and School is located at 7307 Melrose Ave.