Breakdown what makes a sketch, a bit, and desk pieces by analyzing established examples
Learn about different comedic tones, perspectives, and specific TV personalities
Write segments and sketches in class for reading or performance by classmates
Give and receive feedback on draft assignments in class
About this course:
From the beginning of network and cable television sketch comedy and its first cousin, the Late-Night Talk Show scripted desk piece have given us some of television's greatest comedic moments. In this class students learn the art and the craft of creating solid, funny and functional comedy sketches and late-night bits. Students are taught how to breakdown what makes a sketch, a bit and desk pieces work by watching and analyzing the great sketch and talk shows past and presence. Paticipants close watch and analyze late night talk and sketch shows in order to dissect the different comedic tones, overall perspectives and specific TV personalities as well as the challenges of shooting live verses pre-taped sketches. For example, determining how desk pieces and remote segments differ from Kimmel to Conan to Fallon. We also study the evolution and history of sketch comedy from SNL, SCTV and Monty Python to Living Color, The Ben Stiller Show, Mr. Show, the Dave Chappell Show, Key and Peele, as well as I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson and Portlandia. Each class is devoted to watching segments and sketches, discussions, and working on in-class writing exercises to be reading/performed for group and professor feedback.
Enrollment limited to 15 students; early enrollment advised. Visitors not permitted.
This course is held via video teleconference. Instructors use Zoom to offer live class meetings at the designated class meeting time. Students must be present at the course meeting time as each student’s final grade may include scores for participation. Please inform your instructor if you will miss a class meeting. You are responsible for any class information you missed. We suggest you arrange with a fellow classmate to share their notes when feasible.
Refund Deadline
No refunds after January 21, 2025
Course Requirements
Internet access required to retreive course materials.
(Optional)
SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE : THE FIRST TWENTY YEARS
by CADER, MICHAEL
(Optional)
LIVE FROM NEW YORK : THE COMPLETE, UNCENSORED HISTORY OF SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE AS TOLD BY ITS STARS, WRITERS, AND GUESTS
by MILLER, JAMES ANDREW AND SHALES, TOM
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