Nick R Thomas - A Public Speaker's Blog :: Radio presenters' comedy 'PREP SCHOOL'

About my PREP SCHOOL radio presenters' Comedy Writing Manual and e-course.

As you will see from other pages on this site, I have an extensive BBC radio comedy writing CV and have also run a comedy show prep service since 1994. I have also taught comedy writing classes for adult learning providers, arts festivals and writers' groups.

Whilst my prep service clients stay with me, year in, year out, I am aware that not every presenter can afford to use a prep service and also that many would prefer to write their own comedy material anyway - if they had some expert guidance in how to do it.

I am able to offer two options to help you with this.

Firstly, there is my PREP SCHOOL Comedy Writing Manual. Last year, over a three-month period, I devoted my fortnightly Radio Gagster columns in the Radio Magazine to showing readers how to write their own comedy material. Topics covered included creating ideas, devising original topical gags, observational humour, parody songs, short anecdotes, 'found humour', sketches and, very importantly, how to put this material across for maximum effect. Each article contained clear instructions and working examples, not to mention the cynically humorous attitude towards today's ever-changing radio industry which regular readers of my column have become familiar with over the past two years.

I have now compiled these articles into a 5,000 word, A4 hard copy manual, complete with some additional tips. The UK price (including first class post) is £12.

I can accept payment by cheque or PayPal (please email nickrthomas@gmail.com for postal address or PayPal invoice).

Secondly, presenters needing more specialised, in-depth coaching may be interested in enrolling for my PREP SCHOOL e-course. This involves my setting writing exercises for you based upon the specific comedy prep areas that you wish to develop. You complete these at your own pace and receive extensive, constructive feedback from me. The length and cost of the course, like the content, will be tailored to your individual requirements. Please email nickrthomas@gmail.com for further details.