That our instructor, Tom Riehl, created a comfortable, safe, relaxed, & fun environment for us students new to stand-up comedy to be able to express ourselves freely, be true to ourselves, be confident in our writing & presentation. I would recommend this Class to anyone that has had even a slight interest in doing Stand-up Comedy or even for someone who just needs help with Public Speaking. I’m looking forward to taking the Comedy Writer’s Workshop.

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.

The relaxed setting, and having the opportunity to unwind and share before digging in each week was great. It helped the process to get to know each other, to feel safe and I think it enhanced the process. The materials were comprehensive and the worksheets a fun tool to open up our creativity and get ideas flowing.
This was a life changer! Even if I never get up on stage again (although I REALLY want to) it was a growth experience like few others. Tom is a natural teacher with the perfect combination of patience, encouragement and the ability to critique while keeping even the most fragile of us (who shall remain nameless…) intact. He’s funny as hell too!

I was a “Big Baby” about public speaking, let alone a comedy routine in front of strangers but Tom lead a group of comics & myself (I’m not funny) in creating a routine that “Rocked the House.” It was stressful but what an experience – a life changing exciting – check that “Life’s Bucket List” box, experience. Thank you Tom and new friends!!!

The Workshop is very exciting and fun. Tom, my instructor, is such an amazing gentleman. He is always looking for ways to help the students, which impressed me. There is never a discouraging word or attitude from Tom. Because of Tom, I want/wanted to become better and better. During my lifetime, I have had many instructors for many different subjects and I must say, in all honesty, Tom is the best !!!!

The atmosphere of the workshop was wonderful. All of the students participated and also, helped each other to better their set. I cannot say enough about Tom and his workshop. This has not only been a great experience, but a very fruitful one !!

A great sense of community. No one felt like they wanted to outshine everyone else. It was very much about the work. Tom was so good at making suggestions based on the work you would bring in. An overall great creative environment.