Completion of Sketch Writing or Instructor Approval required!
Take your sketch writing from the page to the stage in this immersive 8-week course. Designed for students with some sketch or improv experience, this class guides you through the full creative process—from idea to live performance.
Over the course of 8 weeks, students will pitch ideas, write and revise sketches, cast roles, rehearse, and ultimately perform two 20-minute sketch shows. You’ll act in each other’s material, learn the basics of show production, and collaborate as an ensemble to bring your comedy to life.
In this class, students will:
- Generate and pitch original sketch ideas
- Write, rewrite, and refine scripts in a collaborative setting
- Rehearse and act in sketches written by your classmates
- Learn fundamentals of staging, timing, and live performance
- Produce two original 20-minute performances in front of a live audience
Whether you’re a writer, performer, or both, this course is your chance to experience the full arc of sketch comedy—from the first laugh in the writers’ room to the final applause on stage.
Classes take place Mondays from 7pm-9pm, May 19th 2025 – July 7th 2025, with two class performances taking place Saturday, June 21st & Saturday July 5th at The Bird House. All classes and shows take place at The Bird Comedy Theater in The Crossroads Arts District!
About the instructor:
Brandon Durkes has been doing comedy professionally and unprofessionally for about fifteen years. He and his pals founded The Bird Comedy Theater in 2022, where he currently serves as Artistic Director & General Manager. Before the pandemic, he created The Anarchy Fun Time Show, and is a former Member (2014-2021) & Artistic Director (2018-2021) of The KC Improv Company. Brandon has been a teacher within The KC Comedy Community since 2015, having taught everything from short form improv to sketch comedy.
Some of his accolades include: Best Improv/Sketch Troupe (Director, 2023-2024 The Pitch Best of KC), Best Theater Company (Artistic Director, 2024 The Pitch Best of KC ), Best Comedy Club (Artistic Director, 2023-2024 The Pitch Best of KC) Best of KC Fringe film “A Dinner Party” (Director, 2017) & sketch show “The Best of Fountain City Sketch” (Director, 2017).
When he’s not doing comedy, he likes to watch YouTube videos about aliens and pro wrestling.
Only at The Bird.
The Bird Comedy Theater is Kansas City’s Best Comedy Theater. Featuring Improv, Sketch, Stand-Up, and more every week in the Crossroads Arts District. Voted KC’s Best Comedy Club & Improv/Sketch Troupe since 2023; Best Theater Company & Open Mic since 2024 in The Pitch Best of KC. Give Your Week The Bird.
Full Bar, Soft Drinks, & Popcorn available at our in house bar!
Street parking available! Located a block and a half from the 19th Street Street Car stop!
Recommended for ages 17+
103 W. 19th St. STE B Kansas City, MO 64108 | 816-929-4383 | www.TheBirdKC.com
