Module: COM5102-20 Improvised Comedy

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Pat Welsh

Module Tutor Contact Details: p.welsh@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module provides you with a practical understanding of the essential elements of scenic improvisation and introduces the principles, concepts, structures and vocabulary that underpin the creation of improvised sketch comedy and long form improvisation.

The module aims are:

• Test individual approaches to devising comedy through improvisation processes

• Provide industry-focussed projects to extend understanding of performing in as well as creating comedy.

• Engender an understanding of employment possibilities for a comedian pursuing a portfolio career

2.Outline syllabus

This module provides you with an understanding of the history of improvisational theatre and familiarises you with modern theories and practices of improvisation on a global scale. You will explore strategies that enable the creation of scenes through both pre-planned and spot improvisation, and explore concepts such as ensemble, relationship, character, status, wants and objectives, scenic structure, beats, and editing. You will gain a practical understanding of improvisation as both a devising process and performance genre.

3.Teaching and learning activities

In a workshop environment you will explore the basic tenets of improvisation looking at issues surrounding spontaneity, narrative structure, working as an ensemble, upping the ante and character development. You will collaborate in the performance of both a pre-planned and a spot improvisation that will be accommodated in a series of live performance events.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Performance of Spot Presentation

• % Weighting: 40%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Performance of Pre-planned Scenario

• % Weighting: 60%