Northern Michigan University's Platform Personalities will host "An Evening with Rachel Dratch." The multifaceted comedian, actress and writer is perhaps best known for her seven-year run on "Saturday Night Live," where she created many memorable characters, including Debbie Downer. She will participate in a conversation at 7 p.m. Monday, March 31, in the Northern Center Grand Ballroom. Admission is free for NMU students with ID and $5 for the general public.
Dratch appeared on "Saturday Night Live" from 1999-2006. She has had an extensive career spanning television, film and theater.
Born and raised in Lexington, Mass., Dratch's comedic roots were nurtured during her time at Dartmouth College. She later moved to Chicago to become a part of the famous Second City theater, a launchpad for many SNL alumni. It was here that she honed her skills in sketch comedy and improv, leading to her invitation to join the SNL cast in 1999.
On SNL, Dratch became celebrated for her ability to transform into a wide array of personalities, including Boston teen Denise. Beyond her SNL fame, she has showcased her talents in critically acclaimed movies like "Wine Country" and "Click," as well as popular TV shows such as "30 Rock," "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt," and "The Simpsons."
Her versatility extends to voice acting and writing. Her memoir, "Girl Walks into a Bar...: Comedy Calamities, Dating Disasters, and a Midlife Miracle," provides an insightful glimpse into her personal and professional life.