Sundays, September 20–November 8 · 11 AM–1 PM Pacific
Mockingbird Improv · 2590 Truxtun Rd #200, San Diego
Each deck opens directly in Google Slides. Expand a week for the assignment and examples.
Generate ideas, establish characters and wants, and build a repeatable comic game.
Write a two-character sketch, ideally 2–4 pages (maximum 5). Give both characters clear wants.
Develop the pattern of the scene and raise both the action and emotional stakes.
Write a character-driven sketch, maximum 5 pages. Reveal wants through choices and physical behavior.
Borrow a recognizable ad structure and build an outline together before dividing the drafting.
Co-write a commercial parody from the idea stage, maximum 5 pages. Outline together and credit both writers.
Diagnose structural problems, sharpen dialogue, and explore endings.
Write a blackout/one-pager with meaningful physical action AND revise an earlier sketch. Submit both pieces.
Use constraints and musical patterns to generate comedy.
Write a sketch with a musical element, maximum 5 pages. Pairs encouraged; musical training is not required.
Keep the game moving while giving the audience a clear, manageable role.
Write an audience-interaction sketch, maximum 5 pages. Plan for silence and unexpected responses. Bring your Week 4 short sketch to the next class.
Complete a handoff rewrite, preserve the original kernel, and direct through objectives, blocking, and stage pictures.
Submit revised show candidates with cast needs, props, costumes, numbered sound/light cues, and sound files. No new first draft.
Finalize the lineup, casting, directors, run order, and production responsibilities.
Rehearse and memorize selected material with your cast. Arrange independent rehearsals before the show.
Use the submission form in Class links. Turn in matching PDF and FDX files by Thursday at midnight Pacific before the next class.
lastname_title_draft1.pdf and lastname_title_draft1.fdx. Update the draft number for revisions.At Mockingbird Improv. All times are Pacific.
Lunch · 1–1:30 PM
Directing rehearsal · 1:30–3:30 PM
Required tech · 11 AM–1:30 PM
Student show · 7 PM
Arrange independent rehearsals with your cast between the last class and the show. Selection considers the writing, attendance, participation, equitable opportunities, and the needs of the show. Students direct selected work and act in others; Jacob balances casting.
AI may help with formatting, export, or critique of weaknesses. Write the premises, beats, dialogue, and jokes yourself.
Plan on two hours outside class each week. Write six first drafts, revise the ones worth developing, co-write, and try a handoff rewrite. Aim to leave with at least four sketches you want to keep working on.
Table read → reactions → diagnosis → brainstorm → Jacob’s notes. Reading slots rotate; every submission won’t get a full class read each week. Written feedback is capped at 250 words.
Listen, ask clarifying questions, then choose how to revise. Credit real writing contributions. Bring rough drafts, try bad ideas, and make room for other writers.