On this week’s episode of On Story we’re exploring all aspects of comedic writing and performing. We’ll discuss writing animated features with Disney scribe Pamela Ribon and writing and performing stand-up and sketch comedy with SNL veteran Sasheer Zamata.

Pamela Ribon is a comedic writer who has worked in a variety of mediums. In addition to her work writing television and graphic novels, Ribon wrote two Disney animated films, Moana and Ralph Breaks The Internet. Both films were nominated for Best Animated Feature at the Academy Awards. I spoke with Ribon about subverting the princess trope and writing comedy that sometimes makes you sad.

Clips of Moana & Ralph Breaks the Internet courtesy of Disney Enterprises, Inc.

Clip of Samantha Who? courtesy of American Broadcasting Company (ABC)

Sasheer Zamata is a comedian, actress, writer and 4 season Saturday Night Live cast member. Zamata was listed in Cosmopolitan’s 13 Funny Women to Watch and Variety Magazine named her web series Pursuit Of Sexiness one of the Top 10 Web Series of 2013. I spoke with Zamata about writing and performing comedy live at the Moontower Comedy Festival in Austin, Tx.

Clips of Saturday Night Live courtesy of National Broadcasting Company, Inc.

Segments of this episode were filmed at KLRU Studio 6a, the original home of Austin City Limits. Special thanks to Chief Executive Officer and General Manager Bill Stotesbery, Production and Operations Director JJ Weber, and Production Coordinator Emily Steele. Audio captured by Randy Reynolds and Kevin J. Cochran.

The last segment of our show was filmed live at the Moontower Comedy Festival in Austin, Texas. Special thanks to Chief Executive Officer Jim Ritts, Festival Director Lietza Brass, Talent Producer Colleen McGarr, Festival Manager Maggie Hoffman and Programming Associate Kaetie Turner.