'glossophobia' (n) - Fear of public speaking
Did you know more people are afraid of public speaking than spiders, heights and, um... death? And yet some people choose to do it for a living! Are you someone who has always harboured a secret urge to be one of them? Whether you have a burning desire to be the next Michael McIntyre/Katherine Ryan/Victoria Wood/Billy Connolly, or have simply always wanted to have a go at making people laugh, help is at hand.
Eight weekly workshops will give you practical assistance in conceiving, writing and performing stand-up comedy, as well as insights into the profession and expert advice on how to navigate the industry itself. There will be homework! There will also be a masterclass from a top British comedian, and the course will culminate in a public showcase performance at BEAM Hertford itself.
So - if you're the jester at work, or down the pub, the quiet one who notices funny things people don't, David Brent trying to escape The Office or simply someone with an itch to scratch, look no further. If you want to gloss over your glossophobia, come and shine some light on your inner comedian with BEAM Hertford!
WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR
- Anyone who has tried stand up comedy but would like some professional guidance
- Someone who always wanted to try stand-up comedy or keen to learn more about the industry
- Complete beginners with no previous comedy experience
- People who want to brush up their presentational skills at work
- Someone looking to overcome a fear of public speaking or build confidence on stage
- Natural storytellers, jokers and quick-witted conversationalists who spot humour in everyday life
WHAT YOU'LL GET OUT OF IT
- Learn how to write, develop and structure original comedy material
- Gain practical skills in stand-up performance and stagecraft
- Build confidence speaking in front of an audience
- Receive expert feedback and guidance on your material
- Explore the realities of working in the comedy industry
- Take part in course exercises and creative homework designed to sharpen your skills
- Attend a guest masterclass with a leading British comedian
- Perform in a live public showcase at BEAM Hertford at the end of the course
- Discover your unique comedic voice in a supportive and encouraging environment
PREVIOUS STUDENT TESTIMONIALS
I really didn’t know what to expect from this course. I signed up on a whim, but I’m so glad I did. It was just the best fun, and pushed me outside of my comfort zone in a way which never ever made me feel uncomfortable. Alistair’s coaching style is so easy to get along with, I looked forward to each weekly class and the group gelled so brilliantly we even booked extra practice sessions in between. If this is something you have ever thought about doing, just do it. You won’t regret it. Sarah
A fantastic opportunity to learn stand-up from a professional comedian. The sessions were energetic, insightful and full of constructive feedback. There was also a brilliant team spirit among the group, which made the whole experience even better. I got far more out of the course than I expected — including the chance to perform stand-up on stage in front of a real audience, something I never thought I’d actually do. I’d highly recommend it to anyone curious about stand-up or looking to challenge themselves and try something completely new. James
Who would have known that in such a short space of time 12 non-performers would be on the stage at BEAM and actually make the audience laugh. Not just a titter, but infectious and joyful laughter. What a buzz! Would highly recommend to anyone wanting to dip their toe in comedy or to do something out of their comfort zone. Jill
