Whether you’re a “newbie” who has never been on stage before, or a comedian who just wants to add “more funny” to your set, our 6-week workshops offer something for everyone.
Stand-up Comedy 101 focuses on those new to stand-up comedy who have limited or no prior stand-up experience. The Stand-up Comedy Writer’s Workshop is for those who’ve been on stage a few times and are looking to take their material to the next level, focusing on writing and fine tuning new and existing material.
I loved the collaboration with working comics. It was a close knit group that got along really well. Tom has a knack for giving input and ideas and helping comics fine tune their material. Tom is very positive and upbeat and never makes anyone feel like they don’t belong. I’m glad this school exists and I’m proud to have gone through both the beginners class and the writers workshop. I am telling everyone I know about SOS and I hope it stays around for a long time.
This class rocks. You’re a true professional at comedy, and a natural teacher. And I loved being comfortable to rib each other (and even you) at the end. You took good care of us all! You teach without limiting or censuring, which I think gives the most room for growth. You’ll share your opinion, but if someone still holds to what they believe, you let them. That is ultimately very freeing.
Tom was a great/supportive teacher who helped his students develop and showcase their comedy work. His class was a great learning experience and I would highly recommend it to those wishing to try stand-up comedy.
Quite simply, Tom is the bomb. He is the best part of the workshop. He taught us a bit about the realities of doing stand-up comedy out in the world, inspired us, pumped us up and suggested ways to make our material better, tighter and smoother. I looked forward to the class every week. I enjoyed being involved in helping to improve the other student stand-up routines too. Though I was concerned I might mess up my routine or forget part of it, the showcase went well, people actually laughed (even more than once!) and most importantly, IT WAS A BLAST! Thanks for everything, Tom.
Tom Riehl is an encouraging and patient teacher, and you’ll learn the basics of joke writing and delivery. This class will add to your overall theatrical skill set.
Tom taught me how to organize my thoughts in outline and how to “unpack” my jokes getting his feed back and structure was huge for me. After only one session, he had helped me focus my efforts and thoughts on paper. I saw a huge improvement in confidence on stage as the class progressed. Tom was patient, easy to understand, highly intelligent, punctual, and flexible during our writing sessions. Your future self will thank you! Thanks Tom!