Comedy: Writing and performance fundamentals - Elkhart

In this special online session for the Elkhart 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 into a moment of shared laughter, right from your home in Elkhart or wherever you're tuning in from. This talk is designed 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 Elkhart 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. Discover different joke structures and why they are effective, even when delivered through a screen. You will also explore how to find and refine your unique comedic voice. We'll discuss how to draw from personal experiences and observations—perhaps even those unique to life in Elkhart—to create material that is authentic to you. This is a key part of developing a memorable persona that connects with an audience, whether they're in the same room or watching online.

The discussion will also cover essential delivery techniques for an online format. You will get insights on the importance of timing, the power of a well-placed pause, and how pacing can build or release tension without a live audience's immediate feedback. 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 Elkhart community in mind, we welcome comedy enthusiasts from around the world to join us online and learn about the craft from a structural and practical perspective.