Second City offers class in LGBT comedy

Second City, the comedic institution known for launching the careers of pretty much every comedian ever — seriously, they’re responsible for Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Will Ferrell and pretty much every other Saturday Night Live cast member — is offering a new summer class aimed at the queer community: Writing Immersion in LGBT comedy.

The class will focus on how to integrate the realities of growing up queer into comedy, how to create fully realized, non-heteronormative characters, and how to avoid writing another Will & Grace rip-off.

Building on the traditional week-long immersions in Improv, Comedy Writing, and Acting held each summer, The Second City Training Center is offering a 2nd year course titled Writing GLBT Comedy, set to run August 5-9 – 10am-1pm. Students will explore comedy where ‘gay’ is the given, not the punchline. They will discover their comedic point of view while creating memorable characters, scenes and songs that go beyond easy stereotypes.

From budding writers to experienced performers to working writers, students will take on assignments customized to their interests and experience. No matter where students fall in the LBGTQIA alphabet, this course will give them the tools to strengthen their comedic voice and take on topics both personal and political. Taught by Andy Eninger. Monday August 5 to Friday, August 1pm. 10am-1pm each day.

Keep Reading

The cover of Ace Theory; Ryan Fitzpatrick

A new book says asexuality is more radical than you think

“Ace Theory” melds academic research and anecdotal evidence, presenting a bold new portrait of asexuality we desperately need
Black and white illustration of several men in underwear splayed out along a staircase

Inside the scramble to save the Tom of Finland House

Allegations of mismanagement, coastal rivalries and an old Nazi scandal could bring down a vaunted cultural institution 
Marlon James in front of the Disappearers book cover

Marlon James’s disappearing act

The superstar author’s new novel, “The Disappearers,” has gained buzz beyond belief. He’s earned it
Samantha Josephs in front of the cover of 'Carrying'

Samantha Josephs gets dirty

The author of “Carrying” talks writing erotica, trans pregnancy—and her novel’s upcoming movie adaptation
Advertisement