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.

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.

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!

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!

Stand-up comedy can be intimidating for those of us who are new to comedy. Tom creates a very supportive environment to help you gain confidence and get prepared for your first show. He teaches all you need to know, from comedy techniques, to how to write great jokes. He also gives great tips on how to take your set to the clubs.

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.