Comedy writing and performing

What is the course about?

Examine and analyse classic comedy, characters, and performance. Students create their own comedy pieces - monologues and sketches. Learn how to identify good structure and present material for performance to a professional level. We will look at examples of how to develop character comedy for online, and radio. We also explore the world of audio downloads and podcasts and techniques to enhance comedy performance. You will look at internet comedy and analyse comedy performance and writing techniques. There will be opportunities to perform or have your work performed in the class. This course is suitable for complete beginners as well as anyone with experience of writing or performing comedy who wants to enhance their skills and produce new and compelling online comedy material.

This is a live online course. You will need:
- Internet connection. The classes work best with Chrome.
- A computer with microphone and camera is best (e.g. a PC/laptop/iMac/MacBook), or a tablet/iPad/smart phone/iPhone if you don't have a computer.
- Earphones/headphones/speakers.
We will contact you with joining instructions before your course starts.

What will we cover?

Good Narrative Structure.
The Power of Brevity.
Timing and Performing Great Comedy.
Finding your ‘Comedy Voice’.
Keeping it Topical.

Please note that acting classes by their very nature can involve exercises and the exploration of material that some students may find challenging.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

Identify your own comedy style – your ‘comedy voice”.
Construct a comedy monologue.
Use comedy words to enhance performance.
Write and perform sound comedy pieces.
Present your ideas effectively.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

Some experience of writing and/or performing comedy is ideal but complete novice writer/performers/editors are all welcome. This course will help you develop your work and enhance your performance and writing skills. You meet fellow comedy enthusiasts to gain feedback and inspiration. Improve and enhance your ‘comedy voice’


In order to get the most from the course you will be able to:
• Listen and respond to instructions and feedback.
• Communicate clearly in discussion and drama practice.
• Read and respond to a variety of text.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

We will study and discuss comedy. In the session there will be a mix of performing exercises, games and improvisation work. You will write and do some research outside the sessions.

As part of the course content, your tutor may record your work for initial and ongoing assessment purposes. You are entitled to decline to participate in the recording of your work.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

No compulsory purchases. You may like to buy books, scripts, DVDs or CDs to further explore in your own time. Guidance will be given on worthwhile purchases for those interested. You will also be guided to relevant YouTube clips.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

You may wish to continue onto other related courses such as Comedy: sketch writing and performing for TV and online. You could consider a course in Stand-up comedy, improvisation, or other Performance skills for actors.