Solo Comedy Class

[Grafitti]

If you've been in a creative rut, and/or you lack written material, this solo comedy class will get you in gear. It's also a great jumpstart if you're thinking about doing a solo show. Taught by all-around comedian Paul Thomas, the class focuses on crafting structurally sound scenes, creating multi-faceted characters, and performing with the confidence and discipline of a good stand-up comic. There will also be opportunities to perform at Thursday Happy Hour and Grafitti. Class size is limited to 6. To register please email Matt Barbera at matt@the-playground.com .

Saturdays 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
January 9, 16, 23 February 6, 13, 20
Cost: $200 ($25 discount if registered before Dec. 17)

About the Instructor
-------------------------------------------------
Paul Thomas performed character pieces in the inaugural Just for Laughs Chicago in July, and his solo character show "Comedogenic" recently premiered at the New York International Fringe Festival. His solo work also includes the autobiographical questionable love story “Waitress Wanted,” which was selected for Live Bait Theater's Fillet of Solo Festival in 2006. He is a former member of the Defiant Thomas Brothers, winners of Best Sketch Group at HBO's 2005 U.S. Comedy Arts Festival and CIF Sketch Artists of the Year. Paul is also a stand-up comedian and is a cast member of Chicago Underground Comedy. Every Thursday he hosts Happy Hour, a solo workshop/show at The Playground Theater. His music video "Tighty Whiteys" was screened this summer at the Just for Laughs Festival in Montreal. Paul, Jeff Madden, and Cork Kangas comprise Lola Balatro, the post-grunge acoustic com-rock sensation. To view some of his short films, please visit http://www.bigheadpaul.com .

[Grafitti]

Due to some schedule conflicts, this class won't begin until February 13. So the new dates are:
Feb. 13, 20, 27 March 6, 13, 20

More time to write!

[Quixotic]

I took the Fall session of this class and got a lot out of it, I walked away with several comedic solo pieces I can use in auditions and shows. Paul really helped me “trim the fat” and find the funny in my characters. I highly recommend this class, I got more out of it than I have with the many improv and acting classes I’ve taken throughout the city.
-Krystal LaFianza-Pitzen