Biography
Joseph Michael Teixeira, known professionally as Joe Tex, is a distinguished performer, producer, and creative director celebrated for his contributions to improvisational theatre and live entertainment. Raised in Mineola, Long Island, NY, he has cultivated a dynamic career that intersects comedy, theatre, and production.
A United States Marine Corps veteran and Operation Desert Storm participant, Tex discovered his passion for performance during his studies at Daytona College in Florida. He honed his improvisational skills with the Theatre Strike Force at the University of Florida and was a founding member of ACII Comedy. His pursuit of acting led him to Chicago, a city renowned for its vibrant improv scene.
In Chicago, Tex showcased his versatility in the acclaimed production Tony 'N Tina's Wedding (1999-2002), undertaking multiple roles. Upon returning to New York, he became a pivotal figure in Long Island's longest-running improv comedy show, Friday Night Face Off, serving as Creative Director from 2004 to 2007. In 2009, he joined Face Off Unlimited (FOU) as Director of Operations and was elevated to Partner in 2011, collaborating with founders Eric Robinson and Jay Painter, and later Heather Shields.
Tex co-created and remains a principal performer in the international sensation BATSU!, a unique blend of improv comedy and interactive Japanese-style punishment games. The show has garnered acclaim with successful runs in New York, Chicago, London, and sold out appearances at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2023 and 2024. His extensive contributions to improvisational theatre include national tours with the musical improv show A Whole 'Nother Level and various other FOU productions.
Since 2012, Tex has been a leader in Applied Improvisation, serving as the U.S. Co-Team Lead for React, a UK-based organization that leverages improv techniques for corporate training, communication enhancement, and leadership development. His work with REACT has empowered professionals across diverse industries to improve collaboration, adaptability, and creative problem-solving skills.
Tex's versatility extends to radio and podcasting. He co-founded and co-hosted the comedy radio show In The Room (2012-2015), alongside FOU partners Jay Painter, Eric Robinson, and radio personality Lyle Pinder. The show cultivated a dedicated audience before the team shifted focus to BATSU!'s expanding success. His podcasting repertoire includes regular contributions to The Chris Hahn Show and guest appearances on the popular podcast Who Smarted? by Atomic Entertainment.
In addition to his work with FOU, Tex has excelled as a freelance producer with Todo Productions, contributing to major live events such as the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, the Saks Fifth Avenue Window Reveal, the World Science Festival, and the Tory Burch Fashion Show.
A cancer survivor, Tex exemplifies resilience and continues to be a driving force in live entertainment, seamlessly blending discipline, innovation, and high-energy performance into every endeavor. Joe lives on Long Island with his wife, opera soprano Linda Teixeira, and their son, Henry.
