Comedy: writing for radio, online and podcast
This course has now finished
Course Code: DMP053
Duration: 5 sessions (over 5 weeks)
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Center for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
You will create your own comedy pieces – from monologues to sketches; from one-liner gags to up-to-the-minute topical jokes. You learn how to identify good structure, choose comic words and phrasing, and present your work professionally. We demonstrate examples of techniques to develop comedy characters online. And examine narrative comedy styles from classic (Frasier, Fawlty Towers) to modern (This Country, Fleabag).
You will also explore internet comedy and podcasts – 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.
What will we cover?
Good Narrative Structure.
The Power of Brevity.
Timing and Performing Comedy Sketches.
Finding your own style - your ‘Comedy Voice’
Keeping it Topical.
Creating Character Monologues
Defining style and tone.
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”.
Explain how to construct a comedy monologue.
Describe how comedy words enhance your performance.
Write and perform sound comedy pieces.
Present your ideas effectively.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
Complete novice writer/performers/editors are all welcome. For those with some experience of writing and/or performing comedy this course will enhance your existing skills. You will meet fellow comedy enthusiasts to collaborate with and gain feedback.
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.
• Give and receive constructive feedback.
• Take notes.
• Work within groups and pairs safely.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
Working in a safe and supportive environment, we will study and discuss comedy. In the session there will be a mix of writing exercises, games and improvisation work. You will have the opportunity for reflection to write and do some research outside the sessions. There will be some whole group, pair and individual exercises and the opportunity to perform or have your work performed by a peer.
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?
Enrol onto DMP054 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.
Alan Nixon is one of Britain’s top independent media professionals. His recent productions include directing the award-winning R4 sitcom Reluctant Persuaders. He has been Creative Consultant to broadcasters and renowned independents, including Aardman Animations (Wallace & Gromit), Grant Naylor (Red Dwarf), and Absolutely Productions (Armstrong & Miller / Trigger Happy TV). He was one of the founding controllers of Channel Five, has worked with Alexei Sayle, Victoria Wood, Caroline Aherne and Simon Day, and teaches courses at the BFI, the National Television and Film School, and the London School of Film, Media and Performance.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.