Sketch comedy

Sketch comedy refers to a series of short comedy scenes or vignettes, each with a setup, conflict, and a punchline. Sketches are commonly used in clowning as short comedic skits that allow clowns to show off various humorous personas.

History of Sketch Comedy

The origins of sketch comedy traces back to vaudeville theater in the early 20th century, which featured a rapid succession of various novelty acts, musical interludes, and comedic skits. As vaudeville faded, sketch comedy transitioned to radio shows in the 1930s-40s and eventually popular televised variety programs like Carol Burnett in the 60s-70s.

Clowns have incorporated sketch structures into their acts for generations as an efficient way to showcase multiple characters. Sketches with routine gags require less setup yet allow flexibility for a clown to improvise bits based on audience reactions. The biting satirical group The Fratellini Brothers modernized clown sketch comedy in the 1940s and became extremely influential.

Writing Clown Sketches

A good clown sketch has the same foundation as any comedy skit but with extra emphasis on physical humor. Sketches typically follow a simple arc:

• Setup : Introduce characters, relationships and initial scenario

• Conflict : An unusual event occurs that creates tensions

• Escalation : Tensions rise through characters' actions and dialogue

• Resolution : A punchline/finale resolves or heightens the central conflict

Other clowning sketch writing tips:

• Feature an exaggerated or contradictory persona

• Include opportunities for physical comedy stunts

• Use very simple props to spur interactions

• timeouts for improvised reactions from crowds

• Conclude with a classic clown gag like a pie in the face

Performing Sketches

Clowns use sketch comedy to move rapidly between characters and jokes through highly rehearsed routines. Key tips include:

• Overact expressions  and movements

• Improvise  new bits based on audience reactions

• Stretch gag timing  for suspense

• Break the fourth wall  to directly engage spectators

• Maintain ridiculous  commitment to character

Well executed clown sketch comedy requires meticulous rehearsal to perfect slapstick stunts while leaving room to improvise based on the atmosphere.

In summary, sketch comedy provides an efficient structure for clowns to bounce between personas and punchlines while highlighting their goofy physical theater talents.