Advanced Sketch Writing & Production (Saturdays 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM)

Advanced Sketch Writing & Production

This is a survey class on solo and group sketch. We’ll explore it all: from pitching and outlines to writing and revising to production, including running order and that all-elusive idea of “theme” and whether it’s BS. We’ll cover how to test an idea before you write it. I’ll also share some things I picked up while entertaining drunks on cruise ships, theatergoers across the US, and euro-folk in Austria. Amsterdam, and Belgium.

"WHAT WILL THIS CLASS LOOK LIKE?"

Each week we’ll dive into a type of scene or a topic, we’ll look at an example or two. Then you’ll go home, write your own, send it to me for notes and we’ll put it up at the next class (if we don't lollygag). I’ll also share sketches from the archives at Second City. So, we'll have decent examples to pull from…or maybe bad examples too! We’ll also touch on the history of the work and the tradition that you’re a part of (or a reaction to). At the end of our 8 weeks, you’ll have a portfolio of sketches.

Dates: The class runs Saturdays, starting 8/15/2026 and running for 8 weeks.

A showcase will be scheduled as an additional opportunity on an evening during the week of October 11.

Instructor: Barry Hite

For the better part of a decade, Barry taught sketch and improv at the Second City Conservatory in Chicago and the iO training center. He worked for over ten years as a senior writer for the Second City Theater in Chicago, creating video, live theatrical shows, and more. He has developed television and digital projects for Sacha Baron Cohen's Four by Two Films, Tim & Eric's Abso Lutely Productions, and Archie Studios. He has also contributed writing to The Onion satirical newspaper, Clickhole, and more. He got his start writing and performing sketch comedy with the Second City Touring Company, iO Chicago, and The Annoyance Theater. He’s a proud member of the Actors Equity Association.

Prerequisites: Sketch 101, or equivalent classes at a comparable institution. Email [email protected] with questions.

Cost: $280 (Early Bird: $250)

The Coalition Theater is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Once classes begin, all sales are final. We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise that prevent you from attending or completing your registered class. While we do our best to accommodate such situations, refunds are awarded only as credit for a future class or shows and are subject to the discretion of The Coalition Theater management. Requests for refunds will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and any decisions regarding refunds will be made at the discretion of the theater.