Comedy: Writing and performance fundamentals - Bay City

In this online session designed for the Bay City community, 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, perhaps inspired by life right here in Bay City, into a moment of shared laughter. This talk is for anyone curious about how comedy works, from the initial thought to the final delivery. You will learn about the mechanics behind what makes something funny and how performers bring that humor to life, whether on a local stage or a digital one.

We will delve into the art of joke construction. Understand how to create a solid setup that leads to an effective punchline and discover different structures that make jokes land. A key focus will be exploring how to find and refine your unique comedic voice. Learn how to draw from personal experiences and observations—maybe your daily commute or a quirky neighborhood story from Bay City—to create material that is authentic to you. This is a crucial part of developing a memorable persona that connects with people.

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. These are crucial elements in the performance aspect of comedy. By the end of this talk, you will have a clearer understanding of comedy: writing and performance fundamentals, providing a solid foundation for your own creative exploration. While this event is curated for our Bay City audience, comedy lovers from around the world are welcome to join online and learn about the craft from a structural and practical perspective.