The Backline Who, What, Where – but When?
Oct 21, 2025
They debate whether scenes should start before, during, or after an event and how timing changes choices. Techniques for tagging in quickly and using backline support come up. They explore staging anxiety, action-heavy middles, and the emotional payoff of aftermaths. Practical advice encourages adding the 'when' to your scene responsibilities and practicing multiple tag strategies.
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When Shapes What You Can Play
- The 'when' of a scene (before, during, after) is as important as who/what/where and changes which emotions and opportunities are available.
- Adam outlines before/middle/after as distinct choices that alter vehicle and audience connection, not just plot placement.
How A Cab Rant Became A Hit By Flipping Perspective
- Adam's cab-driver sketch failed until he flipped perspective to the cab driver, which made the audience recognize themselves and the joke landed.
- He used his Second City directing experience to show vehicle (point of view) matters more than the raw idea.
Choose Before Middle Or After Intentionally
- Do pick the 'when' deliberately: choose before, middle, or after to give your idea the right vehicle and emotional fuel.
- Adam advises matching time placement to what you want to explore (anxiety, action, aftermath).