In this online session designed for the Coeur d'Alene 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 one inspired by life here in North Idaho, into a moment of shared laughter. This talk is for anyone in Coeur d'Alene 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.
We will delve into the art of joke construction and persona development. Learn how to draw from personal experiences and observations—whether from a walk by Lake Coeur d'Alene or a trip downtown—to create material that is authentic to you. This is a key part of developing a memorable persona that connects with people. Key areas we'll explore include:
- How to create a solid setup that leads to an effective punchline.
- Different joke structures and the reasons they are effective.
- Techniques to find and refine your unique comedic voice.
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 session is curated with the Coeur d'Alene community in mind, we welcome aspiring comedians and comedy fans from anywhere in the world to join us online and learn about the craft from a structural and practical perspective.
