How to Direct a Sketch Comedy Show

Directing is an art form in and of itself. Sketch comedy has its own voice and purpose in the world of comedy and theater, and it takes a distinct eye and vision to understand and nurture it. If you have sketch comedy experience, you may be the right person to step into the director's chair and help another group reach their vision.

Instructions

1. Work with a group who's on the same page as you. There are as many types of sketch comedy groups out there as there are types of theater. From physical slapstick-based sketch to parody groups to more intellectual comedy...the field of choices is virtually endless. Most likely, you will be moved to work with a group that you know well. This will definitely help in being on the same page.

2. Find an arc for the show. Most sketch groups will have a pile of sketches that they think are funny and will want to put everything into one show. It's your job to sift through everything, and determine what makes sense.

3. Keep the show short. Don't be afraid to cut things down and back. Sketch is one of those things that can overstay it's welcome very easily. An average good sketch show can run between thirty and forty-five minutes.

4. Be merciless with the material, but merciful with the actors. Actors have egos; sketches do not. When you see something that doesn't work, and you know it must go, cut it. But don't do it in a way that will hurt the actor's feelings in the sketch or those who may have written it. These are people that you are working with (and may be working with again and again). Being nice isn't being a pushover. It's being professional.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't force humor. Let it be organic.