Sketch Comedy and Improv
Sketch comedy and improv are works of art which are often theatre-based. They, however, have a few differences, the first one being that sketch comedy revolves around a script, whereas improv is unplanned. While characters in sketch comedy know what follows during the event of the production, those in the improv have no clue of the events that follow. The story in the improv unfolds for both the audience and the characters at the same time, since it is a back and forth listening and response exercise that is made up by the actors.
The Difference in Works
The other major difference in the two works is that sketch comedy relies heavily on amusement and comic scripts as opposed to improv that tends to depend on reality generally; hence is more of a conversation between the characters. Improv, however, incorporates funny aspects, but to a lesser extent than sketch comedy.
Examples of Satire and Parody in the Show
The show used some satire, an example being Child's appearance as Patsy. The role served to remind and provoke the audience on how the speaker's election would have gone array if the wrong person had been chosen since this role is crucial in case of a vacancy of both the president and vice president. The parody was also used in the show, with Close at the news desk as an anchor highlighting the year's major headlines.
The Best Performer in the Show
The best performer in the show would have to be Rob Tucker, whose character as Oprah was amazing. The use of the song in Oprah's personification was a fun twist, due to her serious demeanor in real life.
Jordan Peele's Most Favorite and Least Favorite Sketch
Jordan Peele would have loved Close at the news desk since the media is often forgotten in comedies and the crucial role they play in shaping people's perception, especially during political times. He would have, however, disliked the Kim Jong Un sketch by Justin, since numerous comedies have already been based on this controversial president during this year.
How Studying Theatre Enriches Our Lives
Theatre enriches our lives through various ways, such as keeping us engaged in our free time, thereby diverting our focus from activities such as drug use, war, or crime. It also acts as an essential tool that mimics society and events taking place around us. In so doing, people can learn about the current trends, which indicates that the theatre keeps us at par with various occurrences in the world. Consequently, theatre helps pass narratives and traditions from generation to generation. In so doing, it acts as a form of heritage preservation that also enriches people, especially the younger generation.
Additionally, the theatre also acts as a form of self-reflection for the audience, in instances where people get to view different sides of the story, that in turn helps shape different outcomes in our personal lives. Such instances also help model a public discourse in people, as they learn to be open and empathetic to various struggles in society. People are, therefore, able to make choices regarding matters such as political views and democracy. Lastly, theatre brings people together, acting as a source of unity. It fosters relationships as people gather in a common place to witness moving, funny, and thought-provoking stories.
How Do You Use Our Imagination in Everyday Life?
Our imagination forms an essential part of our lives and helps us tackle everyday challenges. The first use of imagination is in solving problems. When faced with difficulty, people think about multiple solutions and their outcomes. In so doing, one can come up with an effective strategy for the problem at hand. Imagination also helps people unlock their creativity and innovation, thereby building skills and talents. Theatre production is one way in which imagination is evident. Other areas that rely on our imagination for creativity include cooking, dancing, and drawing. Confidence is also boosted, as one can believe in their abilities. Relaxation also works well due to imagination. In instances where one is under pressure, an individual can opt to imagine a serene scenery such as the sea, thereby helping to reduce the tension.
How I Have Performed about the Syllabus of Philly Theatre
I attended all the shows in this class; hence my participation in the Philly theatre is exemplary. My full attendance in the shows has made it possible for me to gain an understanding of the community's attitude towards the political climate in this year's events. A majority of the audience despise the conflicts that have resulted from the various laws and lack of legislation in institutions.
I have also finished all the reviews in the show, but still need to improve on my reflection since I am an international student. I sometimes fail to understand the non-verbal cues and the culture among the characters and the audience. It results in stagnation in my reflection since I sometimes fail to grasp some of the jokes in the shows.
My participation also needs a lot of work because I do not talk a lot during class exercises. I, however, intend to interact more, where I plan on forming a few friendships during my free time that will make it easier for me to participate in the class exercises.
