Though this might sound strange, comedy acting is a serious art. Not all actors can be funny, but all comedy actors have to know how to act. If you are able to find the balance and make people laugh out loud, you will have mastered a very special skill. We have compiled a list of comedy acting tips and techniques, drawing from the greats and our own experiences as actors and fans of the art form.
Look and Learn
It always pays to learn from the greats, and you will get some laughs in the process. At the same time, look for the techniques great comedy actors use. For example, John Cleese gets his laughs with mannerisms, wry facial expressions, and absolutely perfect timing.
Rowan Atkinson’s comedy is very visual, and his exaggerated facial expressions are part of what makes us laugh. Each person who explores comedy in acting has their own unique points that make them funny. By watching them, we can identify the techniques they use and make them uniquely our own.
Take Classes in Comedy Acting Techniques
We recommend taking comedy acting classes. They are a great way to discover more about yourself as a comedy actor, build your comedy acting skills, and have fun. Your commitment will pay off when it’s time to audition for that comedy role you’ve always wanted.
Physical comedy classes are highly recommended. Comedy is often very physical, and you need look no further than silent movie comics like Charlie Chaplin to see just how important physical comedy is. Check out other courses too. There are excellent comedy acting classes ranging from beginner to advanced on offer in and around London.
Find Out What Makes You Funny
Are you able to see the funny side of things in everyday life? Think about the things that make you laugh. They may give you important clues about the type of comedy acting that would best suit you.
Some of your natural tendencies could become your comedic signature. For example, if you tend to be a little awkward or clumsy, that could be your best comedic talent. Think about the times you make others laugh. Are you delivering deadpan lines, or are you expressive and expansive? Doing what comes naturally to you is always easiest, so analyse your sense of humour and take it from there.
Be Professional But Don’t Take Yourself Too Seriously
Do not fall into the trap of thinking comedy acting is not “serious.” You need to do all the things you would do when performing in drama, and more, you need to be funny while doing it. Professionalism means knowing your character, your script, your cues, and working as a team with other actors. Although the characters you play may have strange mannerisms or characteristics, you must still play them so that your audiences feel they are believable.
If there is one barrier that many actors struggle to overcome and that will prevent them from being successful in comedy, it’s not being willing to look silly. Silliness is the essence of comedy, and you need to have the ability to do it with confidence. So, while you should take your craft seriously, you will need to be wholeheartedly willing to be the butt of the joke.
Perfecting Delivery and Timing
When it comes to comedy lines, delivery and timing are everything. Certain words are more important than others, and so are pauses. Use your voice to the best possible advantage, remembering that getting delivery just right is part of what makes your lines funny.
You can learn a lot from directors, so if you are still gearing up for your professional debut in comedy acting, you can get excellent experience by auditioning for comedy roles in amateur productions.
Use Your Face To Emphasise Your Jokes
When you watch good comedy, you may notice that a facial expression precedes many funny lines. The rhythm is: action, reaction, and your line. The audience needs to see your face, and you should use it to add extra oomph to your best moments. It’s no wonder that some of the funniest comedy actors seem to have rubber faces! There are lots of ways to learn more about using your face. From pulling faces in the mirror to taking mime classes, it’s all about practice.
Get Energetic
Comedy is often fast-paced and energetic. Have you ever noticed how stand-up comics stride onto the stage? While you may not be considering a career in standup comedy, being able to convey energy is an important skill. Even if your role is that of a shrinking violet, getting your circulation going before you walk on stage can make all the difference.
Need a Gig While You Gear Up For Acting in Comedy?
It takes dedication and patience to become an actor of any kind. Even excellent actors are regularly “between roles,” and with bills to be paid, that can be stressful. Then, when the moment arrives, you have to be available, eager, and ready to dive in.
Finding the right job to see you through the more mundane days of your life as an actor can be really hard. Most bosses aren’t overly keen on giving you time off at the drop of a hat, or letting you go when you have rehearsals or auditions.
At RSVP, we are different because we are all actors. We offer flexible work and are always looking for people like you. Visit our careers page to find out more about joining our customer service and support teams.