The Art of Comedy
Slapstick & Farce
Revealing the tricks and techniques of the comic greats, participants will learn how to win a crowd with their comic performance.
An ideal introduction to exaggerated physicality and characterisation with a focus on slapstick comedy and farce.
“It was as if John Cleese was giving a workshop”
“Fast paced, giggle packed day with great insights into how physical comedy is constructed. Huge fun!”
Level:
KS3 to Degree level
Duration:
Online: 1 hour / 2 hours / 5 x 1 hour series
In person: 2 - 6 hours
Participants will learn:
The origins of slapstick and farce
A range of comic devices, including the double take, the comic stop and spoof violence
Stage craft, audience interaction, rhythm, pace and timing, working solo and as a comic duo where possible
“Cheryl is fantastic. Highly fun, engaging and informative. 10 out of 10!”
Online workshops:
Participants will be shown a range of comic devices in action and then be invited to try out solo comic devices, exploring clowning techniques and use of the camera as audience. When taught across a series of sessions, work can lead to a performance (either online or in studio) of a rehearsed comic routine.
In person workshops:
This high energy workshop teaches participants how to create comic characters and comic duos. Material is devised using the archetype of the Fool, together with props and a bucket load of gags. Working with the three main principles of comic theory, participants will engage in a practical exploration of how to master the art of comic timing in performance.
These workshops are great fun and guaranteed to have everyone laughing their socks off!