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WORKSHOP: First Steps - Brainstorming for Sketch

  • Mettlesome Theater 800 Taylor St., Ste. 9-156 Durham, NC, 27701 United States (map)

Workshop Description: The early stages of sketch writing are when unique, weird, and new takes come to life and the world is full of possibilities. Let's get curious about pet peeves, movie tropes, or any other topic to turn into sketch comedy. The atmosphere for this workshop is fun and collaborative. Think of a low-pressure writers' room. You'll leave with a toolkit of questions to ask yourself when you get started on your next sketch-writing project.

Target Audience: All levels welcome. Should have some sketch writing experience (Sketch 101 or several sketches written).

Workshop Length: 2 hours

What Should I Bring? Please bring a notebook and pen/pencil. Bring a full water bottle.

Please read our Lab FAQ & Policies and Covid Policies before signing up for a class or workshop.

Instructor: Joe Dawson (he/him) is a scientist, writer, and comedian originally hailing from Columbia, Missouri. Find him after a show and he'll happily whip up some laugh chemicals and write you an essay about it. Joe started improvising during theater camps in elementary school, and continued practicing and performing in college as a founding member of Oberlin College’s Kid Business improv troupe. He has trained and performed with the Dirty South Improv teams Flashmob, Improv Slam, Public Frenemy, and DSI’s flagship team, Mister Diplomat.

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Earlier Event: February 15
WORKSHOP: Intro to Standup Comedy
Later Event: March 1
More Classes in 2026 Coming Soon!