Introduction to Sketch Comedy

Sketch comedy has been a prominent facet of comedic entertainment for hundreds of years, and it has only continued to evolve and develop over time.

A man standing in front of a group of people.

From its earliest iterations in commedia dell’arte to contemporary shows like SNL, I think you should leave and more, sketch comedy has become a staple of British and American television. Here, we will provide an introduction to sketch comedy, including its key characteristics, its history, and its impact on the world of comedy.

Crafting a Sketch Comedy Script

Sketch comedy scripts can be a hard nut to crack. The challenge of condensing something funny into a few short minutes requires a mastery of concise storytelling and comedic timing. But fear not, as there are certain tips and techniques that can help you craft an effective and humorous sketch.

The stand up sketch show logo.

Let’s dive into the essentials of sketch comedy writing, exploring some tried and true methods that will get you cracking up your audience in no time.

Iconic Sketch Comedy Shows and Their Impact

Sketch comedy has transformed the TV landscape by pushing boundaries and defining genres. From “Saturday Night Live” to “Key and Peele” to “Monty Python’s Flying Circus”, these iconic sketch comedy shows have made an indelible mark on television history. In this post, we’ll explore the impact of these landmark comedy shows and how they’ve influenced the genre over time. So buckle up and get ready for a comedic journey through the most influential sketch comedy series of all time.

Developing Characters in Sketch Comedy

Sketch comedy is all about memorable and funny characters. But how do you create them? In this guide, we’ll take you step-by-step through the process of developing characters for your sketches.

Drawing upon the advice of successful comedy writers and actors, we’ll show you how to find inspiration, build a brainstorm, and create comic opposites that will leave your audience in stitches. Get ready to take your sketch comedy game to the next level.

A man in a suit with candy in his mouth.

The Role of Satire in Sketch Comedy

Sketch comedy is a popular form of entertainment known for its quick wit and hilarious commentary on everyday life. At the heart of many successful sketches lies a powerful tool: satire.

By using irony, humour, and exaggeration, satire is able to not only entertain audiences but also shine a light on societal issues. In this post, we’ll explore how satire is effectively used in sketch comedy to offer up insightful commentary and push boundaries.

Sketch Comedy Performance Techniques

Sketch comedy performance is an exhilarating art form that requires a unique set of skills and techniques. From acting to delivery, every aspect of the performance is crucial to entertain and captivate the audience.

Three men standing on wooden blocks with letters on them.

Here, we’ll explore some tips and tricks to help you improve your skills and master the art of sketch comedy performance. So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced performer, let’s dive into some proven techniques that can help you take your performances to the next level.

The Evolution of Sketch Comedy

Sketch comedy has come a long way since its inception in the early 20th century. While vaudeville acts initially adapted their stage routines for radio, sketch comedy didn’t really find its own legs until the second half of the 20th century.

Two men sitting in the back seat of an old car.

Today, it’s become a staple in the world of comedy and has undergone significant changes and developments over the years. In this article, we will delve into the evolution of sketch comedy, tracing its historical development and examining the changes that have taken place in this art form.

Producing a Sketch Comedy Show

Sketch comedy shows have been a popular form of entertainment since the early days of television. However, producing a successful sketch comedy show involves much more than just writing funny scripts. From idea generation to rehearsals and final production, there are many important components involved in bringing a sketch comedy show to life.

A man with a surprised face sitting in a chair.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the production process of a sketch comedy show and provide valuable insights into what it takes to produce a successful show.

Online Platforms for Sketch Comedy

Humour has always been an integral part of our lives. From cartoons to comedy shows, we’ve always loved a good laugh. With the rise of digital platforms, sketch comedy has found a new home on the internet.

A man with red hair is smiling in front of a computer.

This has created a multitude of opportunities for budding comedians to showcase their skills and build an audience. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing the rise of digital platforms in showcasing sketch comedy and how it has changed the comedy landscape forever.

Sketch Comedy in Different Cultures

Sketch comedy is a universal form of entertainment that has the power to bring people together and make them laugh. However, the way that it varies and resonates across different cultures is fascinating.

Two men sitting on the ground holding beer bottles.

From the high-energy physicality of Japanese sketch comedy to the political satire of American late-night shows, each country has its unique take on the art form. We will explore the world of sketch comedy in different cultures and learn how it can be a reflection of societal norms and values.

Women in Sketch Comedy

Sketch comedy has long been a platform for creative expression and social commentary. It’s also been an arena with its share of gender disparities. Women have faced numerous challenges in this field, from stereotyping to discrimination.

A woman with a paper head on her head.

Despite these obstacles, however, female comedians have made significant contributions to the world of sketch comedy. Here we will highlight their journeys and explore the factors that can contribute to greater gender equality in this form of entertainment.

Sketch Comedy and Political Commentary

Sketch comedy has the ability to provide social commentary and critique by using humour to address political issues. From Saturday Night Live to politically charged shows like Key and Peele, sketch comedy has become a popular platform for expressing political views in a digestible and entertaining manner.

Donald trump's last supper on saturday night live.

In this blog post, we will delve into the world of sketch comedy and analyse how it has been used as a tool for political commentary and critique.

Sketch Comedy Writing for Beginners

Are you looking to dip your toes into the world of sketch comedy writing? It can be a daunting task to start, but with the right guidance and inspiration, you can create hilarious sketches that will have audiences laughing out loud.

A person is sitting at a desk with papers and a laptop.

In this starter guide, we’ll provide you with the tips and tricks you need to write your first comedy sketch and get started on your journey as a sketch comedy writer.

Sketch Comedy Festivals and Competitions

Sketch comedy has become one of the most popular forms of entertainment in today’s world. From stand up comedy to improv, there is a vast array of options for comedy enthusiasts. However, if you’re a fan of sketch comedy, you’re in luck as there are several festivals and competitions dedicated solely to it.

A man and woman are posing for a picture in the woods.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the major festivals and events across North America and the UK that you should definitely keep an eye out for if you’re a sketch comedy enthusiast.

Audio Sketch Comedy: Radio and Podcasts

Audio sketch comedy has been around for decades, but it’s recently found a new home in the world of podcasts and radio shows. With the explosion of digital media platforms, sketch comedy is now readily available at your fingertips.

A group of men are posing in front of a white background.

In this post, we’ll be exploring the world of audio sketch comedy and how it is continuing to evolve in the digital age. From award-winning free audio drama to alternative history and sci-fi radio plays, there’s something for everyone. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of audio sketch comedy together.

The Business of Sketch Comedy

Sketch comedy has long been a staple in the entertainment industry, bringing laughter and joy to audiences of all ages. But beyond the laughter lies a thriving business with its own set of challenges and opportunities.

From pitching and producing to marketing and monetizing, navigating the commercial aspects of sketch comedy can be a daunting task for those looking to make a career in this field. In this post, we’ll dive into the world of sketch comedy and share insights on how to succeed in the business of making people laugh.

The Future of Sketch Comedy: Trends and Predictions

As the world continues to evolve, so does the entertainment industry. Sketch comedy, for instance, has undergone various transformations in recent years, giving rise to new techniques, styles, and emerging talents. With this in mind, it’s crucial to examine the future of sketch comedy by predicting and speculating on the possible directions and innovations in this field.

Three young men riding bicycles in a yard.

This blog post delves into the trends and predictions that could shape the future of sketch comedy, highlighting the potential consequences of technological, social, and creative innovations.

Comedy At Big Belly

Here at Big Belly we live and breathe comedy! It’s our passion in life and it’s our goal to share the joy of  comedy with as many people as possible. One way is through our incredible comedy shows that we put on 7 nights a week! Another is through these blogs to educate anyone who’s into comedy on just why it’s so special!

To learn more about all kinds of comedy head HERE

Buy tickets

Southbank Bar Bookings

Bookings for our Bar on the Southbank, SE1 Baby