From Stand-up Stage to TV Screen: Mastering the Art of Pitching Your Show

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From Stand-up Stage to TV Screen: Mastering the Art of Pitching Your Show

Hey comedy enthusiasts and budding screenwriters! 🎬

Ever wondered about the magic that goes behind pitching a TV show? Jim Agnew, a seasoned screenwriter, spilled the beans in a recent interview with Film Courage, and we’ve got the scoop for you! Especially for those of you transitioning from our stand-up comedy class to TV writing, this is gold.

😏 TAKE THE QUIZ BELOW 

  1. Difference Between Film and TV: TV projects differ significantly from film.
  2. Writing a Pilot: If you’re new to TV writing and don’t have a track record, you’ll likely need to write a pilot. However, experienced writers might just need to write a pitch.
  3. The Pitch: A TV pitch is typically about 10 minutes long. It covers the essence of the show, including its characters, the beats in the pilot episode, and an overview of the subsequent seasons. Don’t overwhelm with too much detail; keep it concise and compelling.
  4. Skip the Show Bible: A detailed “bible” for the show isn’t necessary at the pitching stage. It’s more relevant once a show is ordered.
  5. Character Emphasis: Networks care deeply about characters, as viewers will be investing in them over multiple seasons. Ensure your characters are dynamic and compelling.
  6. Pitching Timeframe: While traditionally TV pitches had a season, with the rise of streaming platforms, pitches are now accepted more freely throughout the year.
  7. The Pitching Process: It’s a whirlwind! You might pitch to numerous networks in a short span, so be prepared for a hectic schedule.
  8. Materials for the Pitch: While some pitches benefit from visual aids, especially if world-building is essential, many TV executives prefer a straightforward verbal pitch.
  9. Getting in the Room: Having an agent or a connection can be essential to getting that pitch meeting.
  10. TV’s Competitive Landscape: TV has become fiercely competitive in recent years. Many pitches now come with complete packages, including potential showrunners and even actors. This emphasis on packaging makes breaking in with a new show even more challenging.
  11. Starting Out Advice: For newcomers, it might be beneficial to start as a staff writer, gain experience, make connections, and then venture into pitching their show.

Navigating the world of TV pitching can be daunting, but with the right insights and strategies, you can make a mark. For our comedy class graduates looking to make a splash in TV, these tips are invaluable. Remember, every show on TV started with a pitch – yours could be next!

LEADERBOARD

Did you earn yourself a spot on the leaderboard?
Look at the chart below to find out!
Rank
Name
Score
1Carla Ulbrich 30/30
2Stacey 30/30
3Claudia 30/30
4Tom Padovano 30/30
5Robert 30/30
6Laurie P Milbourn 20/30
7Suzanne Linfante 20/30
8Jane Joan Costagliola 20/30

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If you want to learn stand-up comedy, this is the course for you! The Comedy Trade School stand-up comedy course is the perfect way to learn the ropes of stand-up comedy. The course is taught by professional comedians, and you'll learn everything from joke writing to delivery.

John Smith

Los Angles

This is an excellent stand-up comedy course that will teach you the basics of joke writing, delivery, and stage presence. The course is taught by professional comedians, and you will get plenty of opportunities to perform your material. I highly recommend this course to anyone interested in becoming a stand-up comedian.

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Miami

Comedy Trade School is an excellent way to improve your stand-up comedy skills. The course is thorough and well-structured, and the instructors are experienced and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend this course to anyone looking to take their stand-up comedy career to the next level.

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New York

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