Stand up Comedy - Introduction

This is a very practical hands-on course in which you will practise and develop the skills and stagecraft needed to make a start as a standup comedian. The focus is on the 5 minute routine, the essential calling card on the comedy circuit. You will learn two skills concurrently: self-presentation, awareness of your comic persona, physical use of your voice and body to become an effective comedy performer: the writing skills, creative ability and mental agility to write your own material. Your most important asset is the self-awareness to use your own experience, which is emphasised throughout the course. You will learn through repeated practise of your routine as you build it, through supportive criticism of the others in the group, handouts, watching videos, and voluntary trips to comedy clubs. At the end of the course you will perform your full five minute act and be ready to go onto the circuit. The course is hard work but the atmosphere is friendly, accessible and supportive. It is suitable for people will all levels of performance experience.