In this introductory course, you'll learn the building blocks of sketch comedy writing—from generating funny ideas to crafting complete, performable sketches.  You'll learn the core techniques used by professionals - such as how to identify and build comedic beats, where to find strong material, how to structure a sketch, and how to punch up your writing through revision. 

 During the course, you’ll write and submit your own sketches, receiving feedback from a professional comedy writer to help sharpen your skills and boost your confidence. Whether you’re new to comedy or want to develop your writing voice, this class gives you the tools and support to start strong and write funny.

Spots are limited to 10 people. 

WHEN: Wednesdays from 630pm-830pm, October 15, 22, 29, Nov 5

Possible Rain/Snow Date: Sundays,  Oct 26 and Nov 9th at 630pm. 

WHERE: Ellsworth Arts and Events Space, 5950 Ellsworth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15232.

REQUIREMENTS:  Participants must be 18 years of age or older.

PRICE: $275

INSTRUCTOR: Sarah McChesney

Sarah McChesney is a professional writer and improv/sketch comedy actor. She was named a writing fellow in the flagship year of the highly selective HBOaccess diversity writing fellowship and her scripts have placed in the top ten of the Tracking Board’s Pilot Launch Pad Competition and the semifinals of PAGE International Screenwriting Awards.

Sarah is an alumni of The Groundlings and the Upright Citizens Brigade in Los Angeles. She also trained as a puppeteer/improviser with The Jim Henson Company’s “Puppet Up!”.  In addition to puppeteering, Sarah wrote for KETCHUP WITH THE HOTDOGS, a web series from Jim Henson Studios and Nerdist Studios. Sarah has written and produced shows for HBO, Netflix, Nickelodeon, Bravo, MTV, E!, NBC, Warner Media, Disney and more. She has written and performed in more sketch comedy shows than she can count. Consequently she owns a lot of wigs.

Sarah is currently a writer and director on the animated series FIRE SPIKE for Bored Panda studios.

After a long comedy and TV career in L.A., Sarah moved back to Pittsburgh with her husband to raise her two children somewhere that she can open the back door for them to go out and play and they will return home safely. Probably.