Comedy: Writing and performance fundamentals - Burlington

In this special online session designed for the Burlington community, you will get valuable insights on the core principles of crafting comedy. We'll digitally explore the essential building blocks that transform a simple idea into a moment of shared laughter, all from the comfort of your own home. This talk is designed for anyone in Burlington, or indeed anywhere in the world, who is curious about how comedy truly works, from the initial thought to the final delivery. You will learn about the mechanics behind what makes something funny and discover how performers bring that humor to life, whether on a local stage or a virtual one for a global audience.

We will delve deep into the art of joke construction. Understand how to create a solid setup that leads to an effective and satisfying punchline, and discover different joke structures that professionals use. You will also explore how to find and refine your unique comedic voice. A key part of developing a memorable persona is learning to draw from personal experiences and observations, whether they happened while walking through Burlington's South End or in a completely different city. This session focuses on creating material that is authentic to you and connects with people, which is a key part of successful performance.

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 skillfully build or release tension, even in an online format. 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. This is an excellent opportunity for Burlington's aspiring creatives and comedy fans to learn about the craft from a structural and practical perspective, accessible no matter where you are located.