"He who laughs, lasts" Mary Pottibone Poole
Here are some of the comedy writing and performing courses I run. To find out more, or just talk to me about them, get in touch through the Contact Page on this website
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INTRODUCTION TO COMEDY WRITING
Get to grips with the basics of writing comedy. The main emphasis is the three minute sketch. Most of the comedy writers you have heard of started their careers writing these. You will also get to grips with writing one-line jokes and the "quickie" sketch. Emphasis is placed on finding your own comic voice.
The place: Richmond Adult College, Parkshot, Twickenham.
The time: Tuesday Jan.12th 2010 at 1900, then weekly for 10 sessions
The price: £102.00 for EU residents.
More details at www.racc.ac.uk or phone 020 8843 7921. You can also enquire on 07826009657 or through the contact page on this website
DISTANCE LEARNING COURSES
These are conducted by email at your own pace. Each course consists of a number of Sessions, which include a Tutorial, feedback on your work and answering of your queries. All courses discuss classic clips and, where possible, current TV and Radio shows.
WRITING SKETCHES
If you want to get started in comedy writing, sketch writing is a great way. Learn to create a flow of funny ideas, sketch structure, dialogue, writing "quickies" and sketch characters. All with supportive feedback on your work. Plus submitting and marketing your material. 5 Sessions
THE BASICS OF SKETCH WRITING
Creating ideas, structuring your sketch, writing dialogue. The fundamentals without frills. 3 Sessions
WRITING SITCOMS
The holy grail of comedy writing. If you want another "voice" while you'er conceiving and writing your series, you may find an email course takes away some of the pain and anxiety. Some writing experience needed. On average this is 10 Sessions, but because of the challenging nature of this form the length of the Course can be varied to suit your progress.
Learn and practice the skills needed in writing gags, monologues and routines. Ideal to get going in topical comedy shows and for standup comics. 3 Sessions
For Distance Learning contact me on 07826009657 or through the contact page on this website.
OTHER COURSES
WRITE A SKETCH IN A DAY
Discover how to brainstorm your subject matter - find that gem of an idea - structure your sketch - write the dialogue, fill it with jokes - and plan your next 5 sketches - all in 5 hours.
WRITING SITCOM
Situation Comedy - the holy grail for comedy writers. Find out how to create layered characters, get them to interact, put them in the right location and build your concept till you can develop dozens of episodes. And, crucially, how to market your sitcom.
FIND YOUR WRITER'S VOICE
Unlock your creativity by looking at what "gets you going". Learn how to express and explore you unique experience of life. Use your notebook, mindmapping techniques, visuals and your instinct to create the ideas that mean something to you.
GET STARTED IN STANDUP COMEDY
Build your first 5 minute act. Find your comedy persona, and discover subject matter unique to your own experience. Create a routine of consistently funny material, learn stage craft, and confidence-building techniques. Work in a lively but supportive group.
CREATE YOUR OWN SKETCH SHOW
Work within the group to write and perform your own sketch material. Brainstorm ideas, write jokes, structure your sketches, create and perform funny characters, and put everything together in your own original sketch show.
I teach regular courses in comedy writing, radio writing and standup comedy at Richmond Adult Community College and St Mary's University College, Twickenham. Other courses and workshops are taken at venues across Greater London.
Please contact me if you with to arrange a course outside London
WRITING JOKES AND ONE-LINERS