With Howard Meltzer
The Art of Mastering Comedic Performances and Understanding Producer Expectations for Television
Overview:
This four-night workshop is designed for actors at all levels who are focused on comedic roles for television. It covers the essential skills needed to deliver exceptional comedic performances that meet the high standards of today’s industry professionals. Participants will gain insights into what producers are looking for in comedic actors, whether in auditions or on set.
Class Synopsis:
Week 1: Finding Your Unique Comedic Voice
* Understand the difference between comedy for TV vs. other mediums.
* Explore character development for comedic roles, emphasizing uniqueness and authenticity.
* Engage in practical exercises to help refine timing, delivery, and punchline execution.
* Introduction to audition techniques specifically for sitcoms, sketch shows, and TV comedy.
Week 2: The Technical Side of Comedy
* Analyze the mechanics of sitcom structure and multi-camera formats.
* Practice physical comedy, including facial expressions and body language.
* Learn the importance of pacing, reaction shots, and comedic beats on screen.
* Work on scripted scenes with a focus on producer expectations in auditions.
Week 3: Producer Expectations and Set Etiquette
* Gain insights into what producers look for in comedic performances, both in the audition room and on set.
* Understand the collaborative nature of television comedy and the actor’s role in the creative process.
* Explore the dynamics between actor, director, and producer during production.
* Hands-on feedback from mock auditions with real industry professionals.
Week 4: Mastering the Audition and Beyond
* Focus on self-tapes and live auditions for comedic TV roles.
* Dive deep into the art of improvisation and how it can enhance a comedic performance.
* Participants will perform individual scenes for detailed feedback.
* Final session Q&A with a working producer or casting director, offering real-world advice and expectations.
This course provides actors with the tools needed to excel in comedic television auditions and performances, giving them the confidence to showcase their skills in front of producers.
Dates and Times
- Wednesday, October 16th at 7:00pm PSD
- Wednesday, October 23rd at 7:00pm PSD
- Wednesday, October 30th at 7:00pm PSD
- Wednesday, November 6th at 7:00pm PSD
$535.00Add to cart
INSTRUCTOR
Howard Meltzer, CSA
Casting Director
Howard Meltzer has been casting in Los Angeles since 2003. Originally from New York City, he was a staff Casting Director at Stuart Howard Associates, casting for Broadway, Off-Broadway, and regional theater.
Whether it’s casting for renowned playwrights like Gore Vidal and Elaine May or casting for a network television series, Howard’s directive is to find the talent that brings the writers’ vision to life with authenticity, honesty, and humor.
He has cast for CBS, Disney Channel, Fox, Max, NBC, Netflix, Nickelodeon, Peacock, Sony Pictures Television, 20th Television, and Warner Bros. Television.
Howard’s passion is identifying new, undiscovered talent, and he has become the go-to casting director for projects for children and young adults.
He has been nominated for 2 Emmys for Outstanding Casting and 26 Artios Awards for excellence in casting, winning the honor thrice. He has served as the Vice President of the Casting Society of America and is currently a Governor of the Television Academy.