Aspen teaches : Sketch Comedy Writing 1 , Sketch Comedy Writing 2A, Sketch Comedy Writing 2B and is the Education Communication Director of the Brody Theater.
Since taking Scott Parker’s improv classes at Portland State University in 2003, Aspen has participated in a steady stream of improv, sketch comedy and film projects. Now an ensemble member, Aspen has been with the Brody Theater since 2005, when he auditioned to join the Theatersports team. In 2008, he used his improv skills to land a career as a college professor where he taught a full range of courses in film production and game design. Aspen attributes most of his ability as a teacher to his years of experience on the Brody stage, so he was thrilled to join the ranks of the Brody instructors in 2014.
In addition to performing in Brody ensemble shows, Aspen has been involved in a number of improv and sketch comedy acts including: Star Can't Dead, America’s Funniest Faces of Death, Porta-potty Karate, The Wit List, Renob Control, Nealham, Cinema Queso, T.G.I.Fundays, The Minions, Slumber Party and Mr. And Miss Chief. He also helps design and run escape rooms and immersive games. When he’s not onstage or sitting at his computer reading student scripts, Aspen is probably sculpting something tiny or playing solitaire.
In addition to performing in Brody ensemble shows, Aspen has been involved in a number of improv and sketch comedy acts including: Star Can't Dead, America’s Funniest Faces of Death, Porta-potty Karate, The Wit List, Renob Control, Nealham, Cinema Queso, T.G.I.Fundays, The Minions, Slumber Party and Mr. And Miss Chief. He also helps design and run escape rooms and immersive games. When he’s not onstage or sitting at his computer reading student scripts, Aspen is probably sculpting something tiny or playing solitaire.
Testimonials about Aspen:
"Aspen's Sketch class inspired me to move to Chicago and study at Second City, and now Improv Olympic. I still hold one of my sketches developed in that class as my best work, and I got the idea for it based on a question Aspen asked us. 5 stars. Big deal. Good class." "I had a fun time in Aspen's class: he was fun to work with; I felt like he was really prepared; and he did a great job of both getting out all the information on the class syllabus, AND giving us a lot of time to write and to read and discuss each other's work. By the end of the class, most of us had four or five sketches to choose from for the show." "Aspen is one of the most remarkable teachers I've ever had. He is always prepared, listens to questions no matter how crazy they are and makes you think about your work. I was a little intimidated by the prospect of sketch writing one because sketch was not a format I am very familiar with. Aspen prepares you with tips, weekly small assignments to get you in the habit of writing (& wanting to write!) and our classes sessions were always a blast. I never left the class feeling like I hadn't learned or grew as a creative. His approach to teaching you how to pitch a sketch is smart, accessible, and easy to follow- you end up wanting to write more and more. Aspen creates space where the class becomes a team- feedback is fun and everyone wants the group to succeed. I had a wonderful first session and cannot wait for the second advance class." "Aspen Farer has a very centered, comfortable presence as an instructor, yet has the knowledge, insight, and guidance you need to really challenge yourself." |