I’ve taken it seven times. Class sucks.

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!

Comedy isn’t as easy as you’d think, but Tom Riehl has a way of pulling out the best in each of his students. Even the shyest of folks gains the confidence and ability to go WAY outside their comfort zone after the course. What other school allows you to laugh out loud for three hours???

Afraid to try comedy?  Relax.  Nervous about what you might say or about getting up in front of others?  Relax.  Never done anything like this before?  No problem in Tom’s class.    Tom is kind, gentle, funny, encouraging and a master of comedy.  Through his class it will all come together.  He makes it work!

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.

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.