Welcome, Baton Rouge! In this special online session, you will get insights on the core principles of comedy: writing and performance fundamentals. We'll explore the essential building blocks that transform a simple idea, maybe one sparked by the unique character of our Capital City, into a moment of shared laughter. This talk is designed for anyone in the Baton Rouge area curious about how comedy works, from the initial thought to the final online delivery. You will learn about the mechanics behind what makes something funny and how performers bring that humor to life, even from behind a screen.
We will delve into the art of joke construction. Understand how to create a solid setup that leads to an effective punchline. Discover different joke structures and why they are effective. You will also explore how to find and refine your unique comedic voice, drawing inspiration from our local culture. Learn how to draw from personal experiences and observations—from traffic on I-10 to a Saturday in Death Valley—to create material that is authentic to you. This is a key part of developing a memorable persona that connects with a Baton Rouge audience and beyond.
The discussion will also cover essential delivery techniques. You will get insights on the importance of timing, the power of a well-placed pause, and how pacing can build or release tension, much like the slow drawl of a classic Louisiana story. These are crucial elements in the performance aspect of comedy. By the end of this talk, you will have a clearer understanding of the comedy: writing and performance fundamentals, providing a solid foundation for your own creative exploration. While this event is curated for our Baton Rouge community, anyone, anywhere can join us online to learn about the craft from a structural and practical perspective.
