Sketch 101: Intro to Comedy Writing

Join us in this supportive and fun in-person class environment to explore the wonderful world of comedy writing. Whether you’re a performer looking to diversify your skill set or a complete beginner, this program is perfect for you. There are no prerequisites to begin, and we welcome all individuals, regardless of your previous writing or performing experience. Students will delve into the world of comedy writing theory and technique through a series of engaging writing exercises and assignments. You’ll learn how to generate, craft, rewrite, and refine original comedy content individually and collaboratively. 

By the end of Level One, each student will have the following deliverables:

  • A 2-person relationship sketch 
  • Character monologue
  • Commercial parody 
  • Premise sketch 
  • Topical sketch
  • Two Line Jokes (Weekend Update/Late Night Monologue) 
  • Fake headlines (The Onion/Reductress/Clickhole)

Whether you dream of becoming the next great comedy writer or simply want to enjoy the satisfaction of crafting hilarious content, this course is the perfect starting point for your writing journey. Unleash your creativity now!

Prerequisites: A laptop or tablet with wireless internet connectivity.

This class is taught by Frank Caeti, who is excited to design and teach WCT’s brand new refreshed Sketch Program! As an instructor, Frank is a special faculty member at California Institute of the Arts’ School of Theater, Improv-LA, and has taught every level offered at The Second City’s Conservatory Program. He has designed original comedy curricula for universities, training centers, and festivals all over the world. As a performer, Frank is an alumnus of The Second City national touring company and resident company (Chicago and Las Vegas). Frank was a series regular and contributing writer on the long-running FOX show MADtv. Other tv credits include: Modern Family, Key and Peele, Jimmy Kimmel Live, etc.

As a writer, Frank has developed for Sony Pictures Television, written for Warner Bros.’ Animation, created online content that has millions of views, and written plays that have premiered in Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington DC, and Off-Broadway. Frank co-wrote a web series produced by Key and Peele for Disney Digital which was developed into a tv series by Sacha Baron Cohen’s Four by Two Films. He’s been the head writer for sketch ensembles at The Pack, iO West, and The Second City Hollywood. He currently performs regularly at Westside Comedy Theater and UCB. He has two spec pilots, a feature, and a stage adaptation of a classic comedy film and hopes all of these will someday be produced and shared with the world.

Class sizes are limited. Enrollment is dependent upon availability. If a class fills up you will be promptly contacted with other enrollment options. For enrolled students a confirmation welcome email will be sent 48 before the start of the first class.

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