THE 223 CLOWNS, COMEDY, AND IMPROV

This is an acting class focused on the art of comedy.  Students will research comedy traditions, learn improvisational techniques, and perform scripted and original clown acts, improvisations, sketch material, stand-up routines, and short plays.  Students will rehearse and partner with each other outside of class and perform a final project for an audience.  The art of comedy and the power of the fool have been with us since humans have been gathering as a society.  The clown (King Lear’s fools to Beckett’s tramps; Charlie Chaplin to Richard Pryor, Awkwafina to Kate McKinnon) may have a stronger and more urgent claim on our affection and imagination than our tragic heroes.  There is meaning to be found in chaos, double-takes, and slapstick.