Sketch comedy is a form of comedic performance that consists of a series of short, humorous scenes or vignettes, often featuring a variety of characters and situations. These sketches can be performed live or recorded for television, and they typically rely on satire, parody, and absurdity to entertain audiences. Popularized by shows like Saturday Night Live and Monty Python's Flying Circus, sketch comedy allows for quick, punchy humor that can address current events, cultural phenomena, or everyday life. The format encourages creativity and collaboration among writers and performers, making it a dynamic and engaging art form.