Humor Writing Classes: Gotham Writers Workshop vs. UCB's Sketch Comedy 101
With the growing demand for engaging and comedic content, many aspiring humor writers are considering their options for professional development. Two notable choices stand out: Gotham Writers Workshop and UCB's Sketch Comedy 101. Both offer unique benefits and cater to different interests and career goals.
About the Programs
Gotham Writers Workshop is a renowned platform that hosts a variety of writing classes and workshops. Known for its rigorous and comprehensive approach, Gotham offers a range of courses that focus on building practical skills in various forms of writing, including humor. The workshops are typically conducted in-person, providing a dynamic and interactive learning environment. They regularly feature industry professionals as guest speakers, ensuring students get valuable insights and networking opportunities. However, the tuition for these classes can be quite high.
On the other hand, UCB, or the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre, is a well-established college-level program with a strong track record of producing successful TV writers and performers. UCB's Sketch Comedy 101 is designed specifically for those interested in sketch comedy. The program places a strong emphasis on improvisation and collaborative storytelling, which are essential skills for humor writers. Additionally, UCB is known for its supportive community, where aspiring writers can receive constructive feedback and encouragement from peers and instructors alike.
Community and Support
One of the key differences between UCB and Gotham is the emphasis on community and support. UCB's culture is built on the philosophy that nurturing a supportive environment helps its performers thrive. As Jason Mantzoukas, a prominent UCB alum, rightfully points out in his Splitsider interview, being part of a tight-knit community can serve as a crucial buffer against the cutthroat nature of the entertainment industry. In an industry where individual success often relies on personal networking and collaboration, having a strong support system can make a significant difference.
Mantzoukas explains, 'It’s a community that as everybody succeeds everybody is looking at everybody else to help and be a part of which I think that in an industry that is aggressively cut-throat and narcissistic and kind of difficult it’s a nice way to exist in the business.' This culture of mutual support and collaboration is something that aspiring humor writers can greatly benefit from, as it fosters a sense of camaraderie and shared success.
Moreover, UCB's community approach offers a structured environment where students can develop their skills through regular practice and feedback. This contrasts with the more solitary nature of online learning, which can be isolating and less conducive to building a professional network. UCB's hands-on workshops and collaborative projects provide a valuable outlet for creative energy, helping students grow both personally and professionally.
Classmates and Learning Experience
The quality of classmates can significantly impact the learning experience. In general, more expensive classes tend to attract more dedicated and skilled students. At Gotham Writers Workshop, the diverse student pool includes individuals from various backgrounds, such as established writers, new creatives, and professionals who seek to switch careers. This variety can be advantageous for networking and gaining exposure to different perspectives.
UCB's classes, particularly Sketch Comedy 101, often draw a younger and more energetic group of students. As Jason Mantzoukas notes, 'I see a lot of friends who are just straight actors or writers in the business and they are solo units. They’re going to an audition and waiting to see if they got it or not, or they’re writing a spec script in their house. Whatever it is they don’t have an outlet to do their stuff. They don’t have a community of people constantly fostering advancement.' UCB's community serves as an essential support system, providing students with the energy and motivation to consistently hone their skills.
Personal Considerations
As an ad copywriter, you may want to consider a few factors when deciding between these two options. If you are looking for a program that offers a well-structured and comprehensive curriculum, as well as opportunities for networking and professional development, Gotham Writers Workshop might be a better fit. The in-person classes provide an immersive learning experience, and Gotham's extensive network of industry professionals can be invaluable for your career growth.
However, if you are more interested in developing skills specifically for sketch comedy and enjoy a collaborative and supportive environment, UCB's Sketch Comedy 101 could be the ideal choice. The program's focus on improvisation and collaboration, along with its supportive community, can help you develop the unique and essential skills needed to succeed in the world of comedy writing.
Ultimately, the decision will depend on your personal goals and the type of environment in which you thrive. For someone looking to enhance their creative writing skills in a reliable and professional setting, Gotham Writers Workshop is a strong contender. But if you are passionate about sketch comedy and looking to become part of a vibrant and nurturing community, UCB's Sketch Comedy 101 may be more aligned with your aspirations.