When teaching students about influential comedic performers, Dick Shawn is a name that deserves recognition. Born as Richard Schulefand, Dick Shawn was an American actor and comedian who made significant contributions to both stage and screen. With his unique brand of humor and unforgettable performances, he offers an excellent learning opportunity for students exploring the world of comedy.
Early Life and Career
Dick Shawn was born on December 1, 1923, in Buffalo, New York. He started his career as a stand-up comedian in the 1950s, entertaining audiences at clubs across the country. His early work provided the foundation for a successful career spanning over four decades.
Throughout his career, Shawn appeared in numerous films and television shows. Some of his most notable roles include playing Lorenzo St. DuBois (L.S.D.) in Mel Brooks’ “The Producers” (1967), starring alongside Peter Sellers in “What’s New Pussycat” (1965), and featuring in Stanley Kramer’s “It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World” (1963).
Teaching Methods
To introduce students to Dick Shawn’s work effectively, consider implementing the following teaching methods:
1. Video Clips: Show clips from some of Dick Shawn’s most famous performances. This will give students a sense of his comedic timing, facial expressions, and physical humor.
2. Biographical Information: Provide a brief overview of Dick Shawn’s life and career. Encourage students to research his filmography and explore how he developed as an actor and comedian over time.
3. Comedy Techniques: Discuss specific techniques used by Dick Shawn in his performances – such as slapstick humor, satire, or improvisation – to help students understand the mechanics behind his comedic style.
4. Stage Presence: Encourage students to analyze Dick Shawn’s stage presence and delivery while performing. Ask them to consider how his demeanor, gestures, and voice contribute to his overall comedic impact.
5. Comparisons: After examining Dick Shawn’s style, introduce students to other comedians and actors from the same era. Encourage them to compare and contrast the various approaches to comedy and performance.
6. In-Class Performances: Challenge your students to emulate Dick Shawn’s style in a brief comic skit or monologue, focusing on timing, facial expressions, and movement.
7. Group Discussions: Facilitate group discussions about the significance of Dick Shawn’s body of work within the broader context of comedic history.
Conclusion
Teaching students about Dick Shawn offers a unique opportunity to explore not only his work but also the art of comedy itself. By studying Shawn’s performances and learning from his techniques, students can develop a deeper appreciation for the power of humor and its ability to connect with audiences. Ultimately, introducing students to a versatile performer like Dick Shawn opens doors for broader discussions surrounding comedy, entertainment, and performance art history.
