Comedy Writing for Beginners

Comedy Writing for Beginners Course

The course will cover the basics of writing scripted comedy. We'll be listening to classic comedy, old and new (maybe even watching some if the telly works), writing some comedy of our own, reading it around the group and generally having a laugh.

Level

The course is aimed at beginners. No previous comedy writing experience is required. Please note this is not a stand-up comedy course, although writers with a performing background are welcome to attend.

Format

Among other things, we'll talk about:

• Joke writing
• Sketch writing
• Comedy songs
• The Sitcom
• Writing for different media
• Ideas for comedy.

We'll also be looking at how to sell your comedy writing and "where to go from here".

Homework

A writing exercise will be set between the two sessions.

About the Tutor

Griff Phillips is a commissioned comedy writer for BBC Radio and has written for several sketch shows, including Recorded For Training Purposes (Radio Four), Tilt (BBC7) and Newsjack (BBC7). Other credits include NewsRevue (Canal Cafe Theatre and Edinburgh Festival), The Treason Show (Brighton/Berlin) and The Sitcom Trials (Leicester Square Theatre). His play Endorsement was recently performed at the Kings Head Theatre in London.

What People Have Said

"I really appreciate the in-depth analysis of my work . . . You have given me lots of things to think about. I especially appreciate the feedback on plotting." Jenny Wheeler, comedy writer.

"Thorough and fair. A twelve-course meal of food for thought with afters and a very humbling after-dinner mint."

"All your notes are harsh, but fair :-)"Jane Perrin, BBC Radio sketch writer.