TV Comedy Pilot I
DRA4393.01
Course Description
Summary
In this course, I will be working with a small group of students to explore the process of writing a comedy pilot for television. We’ll be reading and watching pilots from some of the best comedies of the last decade or so (Detroiters, Community, What We Do In The Shadows, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, etc.) to learn how they function and what makes a great pilot. Each week students will share their work for feedback from myself and the group at large. This is a process oriented class where students will be encouraged to swing for the fences. By Week 14, writers will have a complete 'pitch deck', an outline for their pilot, and (possibly) a 25-30 page first draft of their comedy script. Screenwriting software (Final Draft, Fade In, WriterDuet, etc.) is required for this course. Writing duos will also be given full consideration. This course is hybrid. PLEASE NOTE: Some of the material in this course is provocative (sometimes deliberately so) and not for the faint of heart, so to speak. I believe in freedom of expression and not censoring an artist’s impulses so if you are easily upset by content (or jokes), this may not be the class for you.Prerequisites
Permission of the instructor upon receipt of a short writing sample that showcases your work and sense of humor, plus a brief, 2 min. Video Statement of Interest [via YouTube link]. Video Statement of Interest: What is your interest in comedy writing and what do you hope to gain by taking this course? What's your favorite TV show and why? Send your writing sample and BRIEF YouTube videos to me at: shawtanebowen@bennington.edu by November 15th at 5 p.m. Late submissions will not be accepted!
Please contact the faculty member : shawtanebowen@bennington.edu
Corequisites
Completion of a Dance or Drama lab assignment is a requirement for this course.