Television comedy has its roots and parallels in theater, radio, and film. This course traces the development of the comedic form from the early days of television to the present. Topics include the development of the three-camera format for sitcoms, the rise and fall of variety formats, comedic casts, British imports, late-night entertainment, and political comedy. Students analyze scripting, camera, lighting, and editing techniques. This course fulfills a history/theory requirement for the Television track of the major/minor, and fulfills a visual and performing arts core requirement in history. Three credits.

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