In this online session designed for the Birmingham 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 in Birmingham itself, into a moment of shared laughter. This talk is for anyone in the Birmingham area and beyond 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. A key part of our discussion will focus on finding your unique comedic voice. You'll discover how to draw from personal experiences and observations, maybe from your own life in Birmingham, to create material that is authentic to you. This is a key part of developing a memorable persona that connects with people, whether your audience is local or global.
The discussion will also cover essential delivery techniques. In this session, you'll get insights on:
- The importance of timing and the power of a well-placed pause.
- How pacing can build or release tension effectively.
- Translating stage presence to an online performance format.
By the end of this online talk, you will have a clearer understanding of comedy: writing and performance fundamentals, providing a solid foundation for your own creative exploration. While this session is curated with the Birmingham creative scene in mind, it is accessible online to anyone, anywhere, wanting to learn about the craft from a structural and practical perspective.
