I loved being able to get Tom’s feedback between classes. I really appreciated that we jumped right into things on day 1 (which was really hard at the time). I liked that Tom gave us handouts on things but didn’t overwhelm us with too much information. Working through material as a group was always really fun and extremely helpful too. This was a great experience and ended up being far better than I imagined it would be. Tom was right; it did get easier. From this class, I was able to do something I never imagined I could actually pull off – and I ended up being very proud of what I did at the showcase! Thank you for being a great teacher, guide, supporter, believer and champion for us.

So many things. First, I love how Tom works with your material as an artist and doesn’t try to make you write jokes that are not your style. He really encourages each comic to dig into their individuality and he has the amazing talent of pulling out the best in you. Additionally, Tom has created an incredibly collaborative environment in which artist feel comfortable not only sharing their jokes but their process. We entered as strangers and left as friends. Incredible experience.

Tom was great and very supportive as I was way out of my comfort zone!! The night of graduation show, I actually ended up just having fun. The nervousness went away. Tom was a big help in that area.  I learned a lot & it helped improve my self confidence in front of an audience….. big time!  I had a great time. Thank you Tom and see your in next course.

What a great place to start if you are interested in comedy and performing! This class took something I thought I could do and made it something that I can do! Since this class I have already started a path of performing and am having a blast doing it!

I have been producing comedy shows in Orange County for the past 10 years and I love going to the Students of Stand-Up graduation showcases.  Many times I have found Tom’s students ready and prepared to perform, and I have booked several of them for my show at the Irvine Improv.  As of today I am yet to be disappointed!

I had only two things left on my bucket list. Climb Mt. Everest or take a stand-up comedy class. Sure glad I chose the latter of the two. I thought it would be fun but it exceeded all of my expectations. The six weeks just flew by. Could hardly wait for the next class to begin.

Tom Riehl is a genius as a teacher, mentor and psychiatrist. If you ever wanted to know if you have the talent for stand-up this is the class for you. Want to know how to put a comedy routine together, set ups, punch lines —-this is the class for you. You have the magic formula. It works.