PDF Summary:The History of Sketch Comedy, by Keegan-Michael Key

How did the world of sketch comedy evolve into the hilarious art form we know today? In The History of Sketch Comedy, actor Keegan-Michael Key traces the genre's origins from ancient humor to commedia dell'arte, vaudeville, and burlesque. He explores how radio, television, and digital media enabled new comedic techniques, while influential shows like Saturday Night Live and Chappelle's Show transformed sketch comedy into a platform for social commentary.

Key also examines the rise of contemporary comedic troupes and improv schools like The Groundlings and Second City. They've nurtured countless comedians, expanding the genre and introducing fresh perspectives that reflect modern audiences. Key's comprehensive analysis captures sketch comedy's progression from its classic foundations to its flourishing current forms.

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These factors significantly influenced the way sketch comedy is structured and presented.

Key explores the significant influence that the rapid tempo and humor-centric nature of vaudeville and burlesque have had on shaping the framework and delivery of contemporary sketch humor. He underscores the evolution of concise comedic performances, charting their progression from initial rapid sequences of sketches to modern variations, and highlights the changes in comedic tastes and modes of delivery, consistently preserving the core of swift wit and carefully crafted punchlines.

Key delves into how the concise format and sharp humor of blackout sketches have shaped modern sketch comedy, evident in their frequent application in shows like "Saturday Night Live," his own "Key & Peele," and throughout various online mediums such as TikTok. He demonstrates how their creative output has left a lasting impact on modern short-form comedy, characterized by concise and visually captivating sketches that appeal to the diminishing attention spans of viewers.

Key argues that although comedic styles have transformed over time, the focus on delivering powerful humor in a concise manner remains a fundamental aspect of contemporary sketch comedy. He emphasizes the importance for individuals aiming to write and perform in sketch comedy to understand these essential principles, as this knowledge enables them to craft comedic moments that connect with and are remembered by a diverse audience.

Practical Tips

• Experiment with burlesque-inspired costume and set design in your next video project or social media post. Use bold, exaggerated costumes or props that pay homage to the burlesque aesthetic, and see how it affects audience engagement. For instance, if you're making a cooking video, dress up in a flamboyant chef's outfit and decorate your kitchen with lavish, burlesque-style decor.
• You can create a short, humorous video skit inspired by vaudeville's pace and humor. Start by brainstorming a simple, comedic scenario that can be acted out quickly. Use your smartphone to film and edit the skit, aiming for a rapid-fire delivery of jokes or visual gags. Share the video on social media to entertain your friends and gauge the audience's reaction to this style of comedy.
• Host a mini sketch-writing session with friends or family. Invite a small group to come up with funny, concise sketches based on a theme you all choose. Each person can contribute ideas, and together you can craft a series of short sketches to perform for each other. This social activity can be a fun way to explore creative writing and performance, and it can give you insight into what makes sketches like these resonate with audiences.
• Use social media as a testing ground for your concise comedic material by posting short, humorous content and gauging audience reaction. Platforms like Twitter, with its character limit, naturally enforce brevity. You can track which posts get more likes, shares, or comments to understand what type of humor resonates most with an audience.

The impact of contemporary media on the evolution of comedic sketches.

The transition of sketch comedy to television displays.

Television has significantly altered the performance and scripting of sketch comedy.

Key explores the evolution of humorous sketches, moving from the sound-based jokes that were fundamental to radio to a style that fully utilizes visual comedy, detailed sets, and diverse humorous scenarios made possible by television. He delves into how television variety shows assimilated various forms of entertainment, creating an ideal environment for sketch comedy to flourish in a new medium.

Key underscores the crucial contributions of performers like Milton Berle and Sid Caesar in establishing television as a leading medium for amusement. He highlights Berle's talent for connecting with viewers, creating a shared experience, while Caesar's skill in bodily comedy and wordless impersonation paved the way for groundbreaking visual jokes in the sphere of sketch comedy.

Key explores how television sketches incorporated elements from various theatrical traditions, including radio and vaudeville, showcasing performers who excelled in both witty banter and physical humor. In his book, the author elucidates how the distinctive comedic approach and the timeless humor found in Jack Benny's acts, as well as Bob Hope's clever banter with his guests, laid the groundwork for a type of comedy that prioritizes humor based on characters and frequently incorporates running gags, elements that are essential to modern sketch comedy.

Practical Tips

• Experiment with telling a joke in two different formats: first as an audio recording and then as a comic strip. Choose a joke that has both a verbal and visual component. Record yourself telling the joke without any visual aids and share the audio with a few friends. Then, draw a simple comic strip that illustrates the same joke, adding visual cues that weren't present in the audio version. Compare the feedback from both versions to see how the visual elements change the audience's response.
• Create a social media challenge where you and your friends reenact famous variety show sketches with a modern twist.
• Dive into the history of television by curating a virtual exhibit that showcases its development as a leading entertainment medium. Use free digital tools to collect images, videos, and trivia about early television shows and stars, and organize them in a timeline format. Share your exhibit on social media or with a local community group to educate others about the medium's pioneers and their lasting influence.
• Create a personal blog or vlog series where you share your experiences with various cultural phenomena, from trying out viral recipes to reviewing trending gadgets. Encourage your audience to share their own experiences in the comments or by submitting guest posts. This not only builds a community around shared interests but also gives you a platform to connect with others on a more personal level, much like how a TV personality connects with their audience.
• Try enhancing your storytelling by incorporating silent pauses and physical humor in everyday conversations. For instance, when describing a situation where you were surprised, pause dramatically and mimic the action of your jaw dropping. Observe how these additions affect the engagement and reactions of your listeners.
• Create a themed watch party where each episode or sketch is followed by a short discussion on its historical influences. For example, if you're watching a modern sketch show, pause after a particularly theatrical sketch and talk about how it might have been influenced by vaudeville or radio traditions. This can deepen your understanding of the content and its roots.
• You can sharpen your wit by engaging in daily improvisational exercises with friends or family. Start by setting a timer for two minutes and have a rapid-fire exchange of jokes or humorous observations based on a random word or topic. This practice can help you think quickly on your feet and improve your ability to come up with witty responses in real-time, much like performers do in television sketches.
• Host a themed dinner party where each guest plays a character with a specific type of humor. Encourage guests to come up with a backstory and a set of jokes or gags that fit their character. Throughout the evening, have everyone stay in character, creating an immersive experience that practices weaving humor into interactions, much like a sketch comedy show.

"The Carol Burnett Show" was a crucial transitional platform, marking the shift from the time-honored traditions of vaudeville and radio to the modern form of comedic sketches.

Key delves into the progression of sketch comedy, demonstrating how shows like The Carol Burnett Show acted as a bridge, connecting the traditional forms of vaudeville and radio with modern takes on the comedic style. He underscores Burnett's exceptional skill in acting and her guiding role within her ensemble, demonstrating how her team thrived by combining physical humor, witty exchanges, and humor that stemmed from unique character traits, thereby setting the stage for future progress in the field of sketch comedy.

Key highlights the collective inventive spirit demonstrated through the seamless comedic rapport between Burnett, Korman, Lawrence, and Conway on "The Carol Burnett Show." He argues that their seamless integration of physical humor, witty dialogue, and impromptu acts, as well as their collective affirmation of comedic choices, laid the groundwork for the group and character-driven comedic acts that are prevalent today.

Key emphasizes the enduring influence of The Carol Burnett Show, which masterfully combined traditional and novel comedic styles, setting a standard for future shows like Saturday Night Live and Key & Peele. He contends that for individuals aiming to excel in sketch comedy, it is crucial to skillfully combine time-honored methods with modern perspectives, thereby ensuring their work resonates with a broad spectrum of viewers across various age groups.

Context

• Vaudeville was a theatrical variety entertainment popular in the early 20th century, featuring a mix of specialty acts such as burlesque comedy, song, and dance. Radio comedy, which gained popularity in the 1920s and 1930s, often relied on verbal wit and character-driven humor, setting the stage for later televised comedy.
• These are quick, clever dialogues that often involve wordplay, puns, or sharp retorts. This style of humor is reminiscent of radio comedy and early television, where dialogue was a primary tool for engaging audiences.
• Carol Burnett's experience in variety shows before her own program helped her develop a keen sense of timing and audience engagement, which she brought to her leadership role.
• Carol Burnett, Harvey Korman, Vicki Lawrence, and Tim Conway were all seasoned performers with diverse backgrounds in comedy and acting, which contributed to their ability to create a dynamic and cohesive ensemble.
• This refers to comedy that relies on visual and physical actions rather than words. It has roots in slapstick and vaudeville, where exaggerated movements and facial expressions were key to eliciting laughter. Shows like "The Carol Burnett Show" used this to create memorable, universally understandable humor.
• "The Carol Burnett Show" popularized certain sketch formats, such as parody and satire, which have become staples in SNL and "Key & Peele." These formats allow for creative commentary on societal norms and popular culture.

The proliferation of self-produced and digitally distributed sketch comedy platforms has been notable.

The advent of digital technology and online platforms has broadened the scope for creating comedic sketches, allowing a more diverse group of people to engage in this form of artistry.

The author examines the evolution of sketch comedy in the digital realm, highlighting the ease with which creators can now use digital tools and various online platforms to produce and share their work. He explores how individual artists and independent collectives, including the well-known trio celebrated for their humorous acts, utilize online channels like YouTube, Vine, and TikTok to engage directly with their audience, bypassing the traditional routes typically advanced by production companies.

Key delves into the idea that the reduced cost of digital filmmaking equipment and the simplicity of sharing material online have significantly lowered the barriers for individuals aspiring to create and perform in comedic sketches. He contends that such an inclusive environment promotes a broader range of viewpoints and expressions, thereby expanding the traditional boundaries associated with sketch comedy.

He points to instances such as Julian Smith's widespread popularity from his "Hot Kool-Aid" video or Tobuscus's substantial YouTube fanbase to illustrate how independent creators can garner considerable viewer interaction with their own content. Key contends that this autonomous method of producing sketches marks a considerable transformation within the industry, empowering artists to establish their own stages for performance and engage with their audience directly, circumventing the need for substantial studio support.

Other Perspectives

• The digital divide means that not everyone has equal access to the technology and high-speed internet required to create and consume online comedic content, which can perpetuate existing inequalities in who gets to participate in this form of artistry.
• The quality of content can be compromised when creators focus on quantity and rapid production to keep up with the fast-paced demand of online platforms.
• The reliance on online platforms for engagement can also make artists vulnerable to changes in platform algorithms, terms of service, or even the sudden shutdown of the platform, which can disrupt their connection with the audience.
• The skills required to effectively use digital filmmaking equipment and to edit content are not universally possessed, which can still pose a barrier to entry for some aspiring creators.
• The accessibility of digital platforms does not automatically translate to a broad range of viewpoints being successful or visible; creators from marginalized groups may still face significant barriers in gaining recognition and building an audience.
• While Julian Smith and Tobuscus have indeed gained popularity, their success may not be solely attributed to the content they create; factors such as timing, market saturation, and algorithmic promotion by platforms like YouTube can also play significant roles in a creator's rise to fame.
• The lack of substantial studio support could mean that artists miss out on professional guidance and resources that can enhance the quality of their work, potentially leading to a proliferation of lower-quality content.

Productions crafted with minimal resources and in domestic settings have markedly shaped the domain of sketch comedy.

Keegan-Michael Key explores the way short comedy acts designed for online platforms have transformed traditional forms of humor, suggesting that their broad popularity has directed the evolution of comedy towards more concise and relatable content that reflects common life situations. He notes that platforms like TikTok have fostered a liking for comedy that is concise yet impactful, tailored for rapid consumption and widespread sharing across digital networks.

Key highlights how brief, persona-centric skits have proliferated across digital platforms, noting their success in engaging audiences who are easily distracted and their proficiency in delivering humor within a constrained duration. He underscores shows like I Think You Should Leave, which highlight peculiar yet oddly recognizable uncomfortable scenarios, demonstrating how short-form digital comedy has shaped widespread humor preferences.

Keegan-Michael Key suggests that the emergence of internet-based sketch productions has driven traditional sketch comedy shows to adapt by adopting new comedic perspectives and more concise methods of presentation. He argues that the integration of classic sketch comedy and digital components enhances the enjoyment for viewers by providing a broader spectrum of comedic expressions and pioneering new ways to deliver humor.

Other Perspectives

• While Keegan-Michael Key notes the transformation of traditional humor through short comedy acts online, it could be argued that traditional forms of humor have always evolved and that the current shift is just another phase in this ongoing process, rather than a transformation caused by online platforms.
• The idea that TikTok's format has led to a universal preference for concise comedy might be too broad of a generalization; audience preferences are diverse, and there remains a significant portion of the audience that appreciates more elaborate and developed comedic narratives.
• These skits might cater to short attention spans, but this could also contribute to a reduced ability to appreciate longer, more nuanced comedic storytelling.
• The focus on uncomfortable scenarios might not be a new development in comedy but rather a continuation of a long-standing tradition of cringe humor, suggesting that these shows are not shaping preferences as much as they are tapping into an existing trend.
• Some viewers may find the constant evolution and integration of new digital trends overwhelming or distracting, detracting from their enjoyment rather than enhancing it.

The rise of sketch comedy throughout the 20th and 21st centuries.

During the Golden Age of television, sketch comedy was a defining feature.

Shows like In Living Color, Saturday Night Live, and Chappelle's Show have established benchmarks in the sketch comedy genre.

Key delves into the golden age of television sketch comedy, highlighting trailblazing shows like "Saturday Night Live," "In Living Color," and "Chappelle's Show." He emphasizes how these programs broadened the scope of short comedic sketches by incorporating societal commentary, audacious humor, and diverse perspectives previously underrepresented in mainstream media.

Key acknowledges the significant role that Saturday Night Live played in molding American culture and acting as an essential launchpad for the careers of many comedians. He underscores the show's enthusiasm for satirizing current events and political figures, its innovative use of recognizable characters and catchy catchphrases, and its blend of physical comedy with sharp wit as essential elements that continuously influence the domain of sketch comedy.

Key explores the groundbreaking nature of In Living Color, highlighting its predominantly Black cast and focus on racial topics that challenged the traditional norms of sketch comedy.

Dave Chappelle is celebrated for his adeptness at blending sharp social commentary and comedy in his show, humorously tackling intricate subjects like racial dynamics, celebrity culture, and societal paradoxes. Key credits the show's considerable influence on the evolution of sketch comedy to its ingenious blend of historical figures and its unexpected twists of wit and sharp intellect.

Context

• Many comedians and actors who appeared on these shows went on to have successful careers in film and television, highlighting the shows' roles as talent incubators.
• Incorporating diverse perspectives means including voices and viewpoints from various cultural, racial, and social backgrounds. This enriches the content by providing a wider array of experiences and insights, making the comedy more relatable to a broader audience.
• SNL has also been a platform for musical performances, introducing audiences to new artists and genres, and sometimes revitalizing the careers of established musicians.
• Many of SNL's characters, such as the Coneheads or Wayne and Garth from "Wayne's World," have transcended the show, appearing in films and other media. These characters often start as exaggerated versions of real-life archetypes, making them relatable and memorable.
• "In Living Color" aired from 1990 to 1994 and was created by Keenen Ivory Wayans. It was one of the first sketch comedy shows to prominently feature a diverse cast, which was significant in an era when television was predominantly white.
• Known for his laid-back delivery and incisive wit, Chappelle's comedic style often involves drawing out the absurdities in serious topics, making them accessible and engaging for a wide audience.
• The show was known for its ability to subvert audience expectations, often leading viewers to question their preconceived notions about race, politics, and culture through surprising punchlines and narrative turns.

These programs expanded the recognition of what constitutes sketches.

Key explores how these pioneering TV sketch shows expanded the possibilities of sketch comedy with their unique approaches and techniques. He argues that they laid the groundwork for a more daring and inclusive form of humor that spans television and online media by tackling sensitive subjects, embedding social commentary in their creations, and embracing diverse perspectives.

He underscores the lasting impact of the weekend sketch comedy program, recognizing its ability to evolve through the incorporation of new viewpoints and performers that reflect evolving comedic tastes and societal transformations. Key underscores the program's continuous ingenuity in its composition and content, as well as its use of repeated personas and musical parodies, underscoring its enduring influence on the American comedy vernacular as evidence of its ongoing importance.

Key underscores the profound influence of shows like In Living Color and Chappelle's Show, which addressed intricate issues of race and identity through insightful and sharp wit, thereby setting the stage for a variety of new and varied comedic styles that led to the creation of series like A Black Lady Sketch Show and Alternatino.

He argues that these iconic sketch shows have accomplished more than mere entertainment; they have sparked dialogue, challenged prevailing norms, and reflected contemporary issues, setting the stage for a modern style of sketch comedy that values inclusivity and a keen awareness of social issues.

Context

• During the time these shows emerged, there were significant social changes, such as the civil rights movement and shifts in gender roles, which influenced the themes and content of the sketches.
• Over time, changes in broadcasting regulations and standards allowed for more freedom in content creation, enabling sketch shows to tackle more daring subjects without as much fear of censorship.
• Addressing sensitive topics often led to controversies and censorship battles, as networks and producers navigated the boundaries of what was considered acceptable for broadcast.
• By addressing social and political issues, these programs have become platforms for commentary and critique, influencing public discourse and opinion.
• Some programs have embraced audience feedback and participation, using social media and live interactions to shape content and engage viewers more directly.
• Musical parodies involve creating humorous versions of popular songs by altering the lyrics to comment on current events, cultural phenomena, or everyday situations. This approach leverages the audience's familiarity with the original music to enhance comedic effect, often highlighting absurdities or contradictions in the subject matter.
• These elements are central to the American comedy vernacular, often used to critique politics, society, and cultural norms.
• Created by Arturo Castro, this show explores the Latino experience in America through a comedic lens. It highlights the diversity within Latino cultures and challenges stereotypes by presenting a wide range of characters and situations, reflecting the complexities of identity and assimilation.

Educational institutions' impact

The growth of comedic talent has been significantly nurtured by institutions like The Second City.

Key delves into how institutions like The Groundlings and The Second City have shaped the terrain of sketch comedy. In his narrative, Keegan-Michael Key recounts the evolution of his comedic craft at a prestigious improv comedy establishment in Detroit, highlighting the way these organizations provide emerging comedians with essential tools, techniques, and a collaborative environment to hone their skills.

Key emphasizes the significance of guidance and joint efforts within these organizations. He emphasizes the importance of experienced guides in helping learners master the complexities of creating comedic scenes and improving their spontaneous performance abilities, fostering an environment that encourages discovery, courageous endeavors, and the development of a strong sense of teamwork.

He underscores the unique approach to developing comedy sketches, which is characterized by a creative process that relies heavily on improvisation, a signature trait of The Second City. He details how they discover comedic gems through improvisation, refine them through rehearsals, and present them to spectators, fostering a strong commitment to their art form and improving their skills in ad-libbing, while also promoting collaborative spirit in the world of comedy.

Practical Tips

• Try creating a character bank by observing people around you and noting unique traits, mannerisms, and speech patterns. Use these observations to develop a diverse set of characters you can use in hypothetical sketches or storytelling. This can be as simple as watching people in a park and imagining backstories for them, which can later serve as inspiration for creating engaging and relatable characters.
• Partner with a local improv group to offer "scene nights" where you can practice comedic scenes with feedback from seasoned performers. By engaging with a community of improvisers, you'll gain real-time insights and constructive criticism that can sharpen your comedic timing and delivery. This hands-on experience is invaluable for understanding the nuances of performance that can't be learned from a book.
• Initiate a 'Courage Challenge' where you commit to one small act of courage each week, such as speaking up in a meeting, trying a new activity, or reaching out to someone you admire. This practice helps you to become more comfortable with taking risks and stepping out of your comfort zone, which is essential for courageous endeavors.
• Organize a weekly "improv hour" with friends or family where you practice ad-libbing in a supportive environment. Take turns throwing out topics and responding off-the-cuff. This not only helps build your ad-libbing skills but also can be a fun way to connect with others.
• You can foster a collaborative environment by starting a humor journal where you record funny observations or jokes you come across daily. This practice not only hones your ability to see humor in everyday situations but also serves as a resource to share with others who might add their twist or build upon it, creating a shared pool of comedic inspiration.

These entities fostered the growth of new talent and originality in the realm of sketch comedy.

Key explores how institutions like The Second City, UCB, and The Groundlings have been instrumental in nurturing the talents of innovative sketch comedy artists. He underscores the broad spectrum of distinguished alumni from these institutions and their profound influence in crafting comedy that strikes a chord with contemporary viewers.

Key emphasizes how these organizations have been pivotal in establishing a shared language of humor and fostering a collaborative ethos, resulting in a network of alumni who often work together on various projects and continue to influence each other's artistic pursuits. He argues that this shared foundation, which highlights inventive improvisation, impromptu acting, and character-driven wit, has been crucial in the significant development and broadening of the genre that has introduced new comedic voices and perspectives.

He examines the way in which the incisive satirical commentary and social consciousness of The Second City, The Groundlings' dedication to developing characters and comedic archetypes, and UCB's focus on long-form improvisation and its impact on offbeat comedy have collectively shaped the distinctive traits of sketch comedy. Key argues that these entities have played a pivotal role in guiding the evolution and changing themes of sketch comedy, thus securing its importance and nurturing the rise of new comedic voices.

Other Perspectives

• While institutions like The Second City, UCB, and The Groundlings have a reputation for nurturing innovative sketch comedy artists, it's important to recognize that talent and originality can also emerge independently of such institutions.
• The focus on alumni from these particular institutions may overlook the contributions of comedians from diverse backgrounds or those who have trained in less prominent schools or through alternative means, suggesting a narrower view of what shapes contemporary comedy.
• The emphasis on collaboration could overshadow the contributions of individual artists, potentially undervaluing the role of solo creators and writers in the field of sketch comedy.
• The frequent collaboration among alumni might create an insular community that could be less welcoming or accessible to outside talent and fresh perspectives that do not share the same foundational experiences.
• While The Second City is known for its satirical commentary and social consciousness, it could be argued that satire often reflects the biases and perspectives of its creators, which may not always align with or fully represent the diversity of societal views.
• The concentration on character archetypes might inadvertently perpetuate stereotypes, as archetypical characters often draw on broadly recognized traits that can sometimes be rooted in cultural or social stereotypes.
• Others believe that the emphasis on a particular style like UCB's can create an echo chamber effect, where only certain types of comedy are valued and alternative comedic voices may find it harder to gain recognition within that community.