Sketch Writing Foundations

This course is already filled.

COURSE: Sketch Writing Foundations (8 weeks)
WHEN: 6:30-9:30pm, Wednesday 7, 14, 21, 28 February, 7, 14, 21, 28 March 2018.
COST: $349 INC GST
LOCATION: Inner west, Sydney, Australia
TEACHER: Tony Starr

This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of the Chicago style of writing sketch comedy. You’ll create short sketches individually and in small groups using improv techniques and by finding and heightening “the game of the scene”. Working in a writer’s room, you’ll engage in improv and writing exercises that explore different sketch formats using the writing techniques used to create material for stage and T.V. e.g. Saturday Night Live, Late Night with Conan O’Brien and Second City mainstage shows.Writer's room!

As a group, you’ll concentrate on different methods for brainstorming ideas and using them to create solid sketches. You’ll leave the class with an understanding of a variety of sketch formats and a small portfolio of writing. You’ll also have the opportunity to perform or have sketches performed on stage.

No prior sketch writing or improv experience is necessary — the only requirement for this class is a commitment and a desire to write and learn. Students should have access to a computer and printer and be prepared to work outside of class, preparing sketches for presentation and discussion in every class.

This class is a prerequisite for later levels (2-5) of our Sketch Writing curriculum.

About the instructor: Tony Starr is a writer, improvisor, director, and producer who spent many years in the L.A. improv and sketch scene, has been featured on Funny or Die, and has written for weekly shows at IO West, The Second City, and his own stage and video sketch teams. He originally trained at both the Second City and UCB in Hollywood, and now teaches and performs here in Sydney. He was the first teacher of Chicago style sketch in Australia — first with Improv Theatre Company, and later teaching his original 4 levels of sketch training at LMA. He’s the most experienced practitioner in the country, and he’s now returned to ITC to take you to the next level!