Comedy Writing Tip #22: How to Write Physical Comedy That Doesn't Hurt (As Much)

Physical comedy is 90% commitment, 10% ice packs: 1) **The Fake Out** - Pretend to trip, then walk normally: "Psych! I'm actually coordinated today!" 2) **The Prop Fail** - "This chair will hold me... (collapses) ...just like my last relationship." 3) **The Slow Motion Disaster** - Draw out a simple action like it's an Olympic sport. 4) **The Recovery Move** - After any physical fail: "And that's why I'm single!" 5) **The Safety Check** - Always scout the stage for actual hazards before pretending to face imaginary ones. Pro Tip: The best physical comedy makes the audience think "That had to hurt" while knowing it didn't. On-Stage Line: "My dating life is like my stage presence - lots of awkward movements followed by disappointed silence." SOURCE: http://comedywriter.info