In this special online session for the Pendleton community, you will get insights on the core principles of comedy. We'll explore the essential building blocks that transform a simple idea, perhaps one sparked by life here in Pendleton, into a moment of shared laughter. This talk covers comedy: writing and performance fundamentals and 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, even in a digital space.
We will delve into the art of comedy writing and joke construction. Understand how to create a solid setup that leads to an effective punchline, a skill useful for any aspiring Pendleton performer. Discover different joke structures and why they are effective. You will also explore how to find and refine your unique comedic voice. Learn how to draw from personal experiences and observations—maybe from a walk down Main Street—to create material that is authentic to you. This is a key part of developing a memorable performance persona that connects with people.
The discussion will also cover essential performance and delivery techniques for an online audience. You will get insights on the importance of timing, the power of a well-placed pause, and how pacing can build tension. These are crucial elements in the performance aspect of comedy. By the end of this talk, you will have a clearer understanding of these comedy fundamentals, providing a solid foundation for your own creative exploration. While this session is designed with the Pendleton community at its heart, we welcome comedy enthusiasts from across the world to join us online. This is an opportunity to learn about the craft from a structural and practical perspective.
