Our public shows are currently postponed. Visit saccomedyspot.com/live for our streaming show lineup and saccomedyspot.com/online for our new online comedy school courses.
COMEDY SCHOOL
IMPROV | SKETCH | STAND-UP | FILM & VIDEO | ONLINE
Class Rules | FAQ | Instructors
Scroll down for available courses, or select a topic, above.
Take classes at the Comedy Spot!
Sacramento Comedy Spot has the largest comedy school in Northern California. We offer courses in improv, stand-up, and sketch, and video, as well as several workshops in all types of skills.
If you have any questions about the Comedy School, please do not hesitate to contact us at classes@saccomedyspot.com.
We continually monitor the changing health guidelines and update our in-person class offerings as necessary. We will release new dates as soon as we are able, with everyone’s health and safety as top priority. Click below to be notified when new in-person sessions are posted.
Future Session Interest
Before you register for in-person courses, please note the following guidelines:
- All students and instructors will be required to wear a mask or other appropriate face covering throughout the duration of their class.
- Classes will accommodate social distancing between individuals.
- You should not participate in class if you are sick and/or have a temperature, or have been in contact with someone who is sick and/or has a temperature. Health screenings will be conducted prior to classes (touchless temperature readings and questions).
IMPROV
IMPROV 101: The Basics
CLASSROOM COURSE – $155
8 sessions, 2 hours each | 7:00pm-9:00pm
Prerequisite: None | Students: 12
Improv 101 classes are currently postponed.
This eight-week Improv 101 course is the perfect fit for everyone! We teach you all the basics of improv. Basically, you are going to laugh for two hours each week and play like a kid! You will learn how to create comedy scenes off the top of your head, with no preparation or planning, inspired by students’ true stories. You will learn basic improv skills, like accepting and building on other student ideas, establishing and playing the pattern of the scene, and heightening your pattern from grounded to crazy town. You want to just have fun? You want to perform someday? This class is for everyone! Okay, let’s do this. Register. Stop messing around. Annnd, go!
AUGUST 6 • Thursdays
Instructor: Justine Lopez
Meets: August 6, 13, 20, 27, September 3, 10, 17, 24
Before you register, please note the following guidelines:
- All students and instructors will be required to wear a mask or other appropriate face covering throughout the duration of their class.
- Classes will accommodate social distancing between individuals.
- You should not participate in class if you are sick and/or have a temperature, or have been in contact with someone who is sick and/or has a temperature. Health screenings will be conducted prior to classes (touchless temperature readings and questions).
IMPROV 201: Scene Work
CLASSROOM COURSE – $175
8 sessions, 2 hours each | 7:00pm-9:00pm
Prerequisite: Improv 101 | Students: 12
Improv 201 classes are currently postponed.
Improv 201 is all about scene work and giving you the confidence to stop thinking and let it rip! This class will focus on characters, improving your scene initiations, reacting in the moment, finding and playing fun simple patterns, and supporting your scene partner. Round two! Let’s make this happen. Register! Do it!
AUGUST 5 • Wednesdays
Instructor: Brian Crall
Meets: August 5, 12, 19, 26, September 2, 9, 16, 23
Before you register, please note the following guidelines:
- All students and instructors will be required to wear a mask or other appropriate face covering throughout the duration of their class.
- Classes will accommodate social distancing between individuals.
- You should not participate in class if you are sick and/or have a temperature, or have been in contact with someone who is sick and/or has a temperature. Health screenings will be conducted prior to classes (touchless temperature readings and questions).
IMPROV 301: The Harold
CLASSROOM COURSE – $175
8 sessions, 2 hours each | 7:00pm-9:00pm
Prerequisite: Improv 201 | Students: 12
Improv 301 classes are currently postponed.
Improv 301 will give you some new tools for your improv tool belt. You will learn all the skills needed to perform The Harold improv form, from start to finish, including creating 2nd and 3rd beats and group scenes. The Harold is one of the most difficult forms to learn, but will give you a TON of new improv skills you can use in any improv show. Students who complete Improv 301 are eligible to audition for a Harold team and the opportunity to perform in our weekly Harold Night show.
AUGUST 18 • Tuesdays
Instructor: Chris Emery
Meets: August 18, 25, September 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, October 6
Before you register, please note the following guidelines:
- All students and instructors will be required to wear a mask or other appropriate face covering throughout the duration of their class.
- Classes will accommodate social distancing between individuals.
- You should not participate in class if you are sick and/or have a temperature, or have been in contact with someone who is sick and/or has a temperature. Health screenings will be conducted prior to classes (touchless temperature readings and questions).
OTHER IMPROV PROGRAMS
IMPROV TASTE TEST
Not sure about taking an improv class? Get a sample of it with Taste Test!
CLASSROOM COURSE – $10 per class
Every Wednesday | 7:00pm-8:30pm
Prerequisite: None | Instructor: Michelle Petro
Improv Taste Test classes are currently postponed.
Want to have some fun? Laugh your ass off? Maybe even meet new people? WHAT?! Want to learn some basic improv skills and play a bunch of fun improv games? Then you need Taste Test, Sacramento Comedy Spot’s weekly drop-in improv class. We focus on beginning-level skills, so ANYONE can drop in! Drop into Taste Test for a while, and then go big and take our 8-week Improv 101 class, offered monthly. With each session, you also get to see the remainder of Harold Night for FREE! The fee for Improv Taste Test is $10 per session. Payment can be made in person with cash or card, or you can pre-register online using the button, below. Online pre-registration ends at 6pm on the day of each class.
Bonus: Get six Taste Test sessions for the price of FIVE! Purchase our 6-pack in advance using the button below, and you will receive a punch card on your first visit.
IMPROV GAMES: Short Form
CLASSROOM COURSE – $155
6 sessions, 2 hours each | 7:00pm-9:00pm
Prerequisite: Highly recommended - Improv 101 | Students: 14
In-person Improv Games classes are currently postponed. Join us for our 4-week online class!
In Improv Games class, students will be given an introduction to the short-form style and basic character work, and will learn a variety of improv games, allowing them to expand their improv repertoire. This style of improv is similar to that seen on the television show Whose Line is It, Anyway? and in the Comedy Spot show, Short Cuts.
Though not required, we recommend completing our Improv 101 class prior to taking Improv Games.
A & B Sessions: Each session is designated by a letter. A different set of games will be taught in each, with each session being held twice before switching. Take both A and B to double-up on your skills!
Instructor: Mel Gelbart
APRIL 7 • Tuesdays (Session A)
Meets: April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 12, 19
Notes: No class May 5
IMPROV GAMES: Short Form – Online Course
ONLINE COURSE – $75
4 sessions, 2 hours each | 6:00pm-8:00 pm PST
Prerequisite: None | Students: 12
In this 4-week online Improv Games class, students will learn and play a variety of short-form improv games perfectly fitted for you at home! This class is designed for everyone, from the beginner to the advanced. There is absolutely no previous improv experience necessary to take this class. Are you ready to laugh and have fun? Sign up today!
Things to Know: This class meets online using Zoom. Please download the app to your phone, tablet, or computer ahead of time. We will be sending you a link to join the class prior to the first day.
AUGUST 10 • Mondays
Instructor: Justine Lopez
Meets on Zoom: August 10, 17, 24, 31
POC IMPROV SPACE
CLASSROOM COURSE – FREE
First Sundays (Check our calendar for exceptions) | 5:00pm-7:00pm
Prerequisite: None | Instructors: Justine Lopez & Betsaida LeBron
POC Improv Space classes are currently being held online via Zoom. Dates vary. Follow the Comedy Spot on Facebook or @pocimprovspace on Instagram to keep tabs on upcoming classes.
People of Color Improv Space offers a unique opportunity for students who identify as POC to explore the comedic arts in a safe and nurturing environment. The Comedy Spot believes that a more diverse community is a stronger community. We are committed to diversity, equality, and inclusion, at all levels of our organization. We want all of our patrons to see themselves represented on our stage. This monthly workshop is FREE to participants. No prior experience necessary! Each month will focus on a new theme with relevant exercises, co-lead by local improv instructors Justine Lopez and Betsaida LeBron. In addition to education, the workshop is a great way to have fun and interact with others in the community, and to learn more about applying for the diversity scholarships offered by Sacramento Comedy Spot.
IMPROV FOR LIVING: Boomer Edition
CLASSROOM COURSE – $125
4 sessions | Sundays | 1:00pm-3:00pm
Instructor: Liz Merry
Improv for Living classes are currently postponed.
Upcoming Start Dates: TBA
Improv for Living: Boomer Edition is a four-session class for self-described Baby Boomers who want to practice a new, lighter perspective in life.
In this class, students will learn the basics of improv comedy in order apply these ideas in daily life. We will play games and do fun exercises that enhance positivity, build flexible thinking and emotional resilience, increase mental agility, and raise body awareness.
If you’ve ever been curious about improv, or even if it’s already a hobby, this class is a unique and fun way to enhance your daily life. And if you’re interested in performing improv, this is an easy way to get started.
SKETCH
SKETCH 101: Writing Basics
CLASSROOM COURSE – $155
6 sessions, 2 hours each | 7:00pm-9:00pm
Prerequisite: None | Students: 8
In-person Sketch 101 classes are currently postponed. Join us for our 5-week online class!
Sketch 101 will teach students the basics of writing sketch comedy scripts and developing characters, as seen in television shows like SNL, MadTV, and Key and Peele. Students will learn Comedy Spot sketch theory and several methods of generating ideas with a clear focus. At the completion of this class, students will have several finished sketches and characters to use in future.
TBA
SKETCH 101: Writing Basics – Online Course
ONLINE COURSE – $99
5 sessions, 2 hours each | 7:00pm-9:00pm
Prerequisite: None | Students: 12
Sketch 101 will teach students the basics of writing sketch comedy scripts and developing characters, as seen in television shows like SNL, MadTV, and Key and Peele. Students will learn Comedy Spot sketch theory and several methods of generating ideas with a clear focus. At the completion of this class, students will have several finished sketches and characters to use in future.
Things to Know: This class meets online using Zoom. Please download the app to your phone, tablet, or computer ahead of time. We will be sending you a link to join the class prior to the first day.
AUGUST 10 • Mondays
Instructor: Brian Crall
Meets on Zoom: August 10, 17, 24, 31, September 14
Notes: No class September 7
STAND-UP
STAND-UP 101: The Basics – Classroom Course
CLASSROOM COURSE – $175
4 sessions, 2 hours each | 7:00pm-9:00pm
Prerequisite: None | Students: 5
We also offer Stand-Up 101 online! Click for here for information and registration.
Have you ever seen a comedian perform and thought, “I can do that!”? Have your friends ever told you that you were hilarious and you should try stand-up comedy? Or do you just love making people laugh and want to give stand-up comedy a try? Our Stand-Up 101 class will give you the skills, practice, feedback, and motivation to perform a five-minute comedy set. This class and instructional environment encourages constructive feedback, sharing, time-tested lessons and tips, and you’ll have a lot of fun in the process. You will gain the skills you need to perform a five-minute comedy set at an actual open mic graduation show at the Comedy Spot, and learn how to continue performing at the various venues in the area once you’re done!
AUGUST 10 • Mondays
Instructor: Melissa McGillicuddy
Meets: August 10, 17, 24, 31
Before you register, please note the following guidelines:
- All students and instructors will be required to wear a mask or other appropriate face covering throughout the duration of their class.
- Classes will accommodate social distancing between individuals.
- You should not participate in class if you are sick and/or have a temperature, or have been in contact with someone who is sick and/or has a temperature. Health screenings will be conducted prior to classes (touchless temperature readings and questions).
STAND-UP 101: The Basics – Online Course
ONLINE COURSE – $150
4 sessions, 2 hours each | 6:30pm-8:30pm* PST
Prerequisite: None | Students: 10
*Please note: Classes begin at 6:30pm PST with a tentative end time of 8:30pm PST. End time will be dependent on the duration of student feedback, but shall extend no later than 9:00pm PST.
Have you ever seen a comedian perform and thought, “I can do that!”? Have your friends ever told you that you were hilarious and you should try stand-up comedy? Or do you just love making people laugh and want to give stand-up comedy a try? Our Stand-Up 101 class will give you the skills, practice, feedback, and motivation to perform a five-minute comedy set. This class and instructional environment encourages constructive feedback, sharing, time-tested lessons and tips, and you’ll have a lot of fun in the process. You will gain the skills you need to perform a five-minute comedy set at an actual open mic, and learn how to continue performing at the Comedy Spot and various venues in the area once you’re done!
Things to Know: This class meets online using Zoom. Please download the app to your phone, tablet, or computer ahead of time. We will be sending you a link to join the class prior to the first day.
AUGUST 18 • Tuesdays
Instructor: Melissa McGillicuddy
Meets on Zoom: August 18, 25, September 1, 8
STAND-UP 201: Performance
STAGE PERFORMANCE COURSE – $150
4 sessions, 1.5 hours each | 7:30pm-9:00pm PST
Prerequisite: Stand-Up 101 | Students: 5
Stand-Up 201 classes are currently postponed.
You have at least five minutes of material and now you want to expand. Or maybe you have way more than five minutes, but you want some feedback and help tagging and punching up your jokes. In Stand-Up 201, our instructor watches students perform weekly at Comedy Spot’s Open Mic and then immediately provides feedback and help punching-up their material. This class is perfect for comedians who want to move to the next level.
TBA
Location: Comedy Spot Main Theater – 1050 20th Street #130, Sacramento 95811
FILM & VIDEO
SCREENWRITING 101: The Short Comedy Film – Online Course
ONLINE COURSE – $150
6 sessions, 2 hours each | 5:00pm-7:00pm PST
Prerequisite: None | Students: 15
Screenwriting 101 is all about writing the short comedy film. Students will learn storytelling principles, screenwriting mechanics, and comedy theory by watching short films, reading short scripts, and writing their own short screenplay. Students will also learn to give and to receive constructive feedback. By the end of class, students can expect to have completed a first draft, along with notes from their teacher and peers to help them with their next draft, because writing is rewriting.
Things to Know: This class meets online using Zoom. Please download the app to your phone, tablet, or computer ahead of time. We will be sending you a link to join the class prior to the first day.
TBA
VIDEO 101: Comedy Filmmaking Basics
CLASSROOM COURSE – $175
6 sessions, 2 hours each | 7:00pm-9:00pm PST
Prerequisite: Familiarity with comedy films | Students: 6
Video 101 classes are currently postponed.
Video 101: Comedy Filmmaking Basics will give the beginning filmmaker a strong foundation in visual comedy techniques and film comedy theory, so they can start making better, funnier videos right away. Through a combination of lecture and hands-on you'll learn the basics of shot composition, camera movement, lighting, pre-production, directing, and editing, all through the lens of comedy. By the end of the class, you'll have completed a group project to show the world!
Intstructor: Nick Coleman
New sessions TBA
OTHER COURSES
COMEDIC STORYTELLING 101 – Online Course
ONLINE COURSE – $99
4 sessions, 2 hours each
Prerequisite: None | Students: 12
This 4-week Comedic Storytelling class trains you in the art of comedic storytelling. In the first week of this class, participants learn the basics to good story structure and then learn how to incorporate comedic strategies into their own true personal narratives. In weeks 2, 3, and 4, participants hone their skills as they tell their own stories in front of the class and get constructive feedback. The class is offered in partnership with Capital Storytelling.
Things to Know: This class meets online using Zoom. Please download the app to your phone, tablet, or computer ahead of time. We will be sending you a link to join the class prior to the first day.
AUGUST 19 • Wednesdays • 6pm to 8pm PST
Instructor: Lisa Cantrell
Meets on Zoom: August 19, 26, September 2, 9
IMPORTANT STUFF
Class Rules & Info
- Attend classes. Each class builds on the ones that came before it. Continued attendance is the best way to learn and develop new skills.
- Students are strongly encouraged to see Comedy Spot shows related to their course of study while enrolled. Students will be given ID cards that give them unlimited admission to shows Sunday through Thursday at the Comedy Spot.
- Be funny. Be Smart. Don’t be a hack shock-comic.
- Students should not be drunk or on drugs when performing.
- Students should approach their education with respect for their fellow performers both on-stage and off, avoiding harassing or abusive conduct targeted toward an individual students. The term “harassment” means unwelcome conduct, whether verbal, physical or visual, that is so severe or pervasive that it unreasonably interferes with an individual’s participation in programs, or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational or working environment. Inappropriate behavior should be reported to Brian Crall at laugh@saccomedyspot.com or (916) 444-3137.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is my class located?
Unless noted below, all classes are located at the Comedy Spot Training Center – 915 T Street, Sacramento 95811
Improv Games, Sketch 201, and Stand-Up 201 are located at the Comedy Spot main theater – 1050 20th Street #130, Sacramento 95811
What do I need to bring and wear?
Wear comfortable clothes, closed-toed shoes, and be prepared to move! Wear clothing that allows you to be physical and move freely while remaining appropriately covered. No skirts, short shorts, or anything too revealing. Bring something to take notes, if desired. Beverages are permitted when held in a sealed container. Please refrain from bringing food, unless necessary.
Can I get a refund? Can I switch start dates?
Please read our comedy school refund/transfer policy prior to registering for a class. Should you need to alter your start date, please contact us. Restock/administrative fees may apply.
How can I get in touch with my instructor?
Refer to the Instructors section of your class, below, for the email address of your session’s teacher.
How old do I have to be to take classes?
The Comedy Spot comedy school is designed for adult students, ages 17 and up.
I've studied comedy elsewhere. Can I start Comedy Spot classes at an advanced level?
All listed prerequisites for advanced-level classes must be completed prior to registration. Every comedy school approaches their curriculum and philosophy differently. We feel it is important, and beneficial, for you and your classmates to have the same level of Comedy Spot training and vocabulary.
INSTRUCTORS
Know all the things.
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Know all the things.
Sign up for our weekly newsletter to keep tabs on upcoming shows, classes, special events, and the latest announcements.
More than just a comedy club.
Sacramento Comedy Spot (formerly Sacramento Comedy Foundation) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. We are Sacramento’s first comedy theater featuring improv, stand-up, sketch comedy, original videos, and short films, and we are Northern California’s largest comedy school. We create unique, comedy-related events, shows, and classes that connect people of all ages and backgrounds through laughter.
Education. Entertainment. Inclusion. Connection.
More than just a comedy club.
Our Main Theater Location
1050 20th St. #130
Sacramento, CA 95811
Comedy Spot Training Center
915 T Street
Sacramento, CA 95811
laugh@saccomedyspot.com
@saccomedyspot
916-444-3137
Comedy Spot Main Location
Shows 6 Nights a Week
1050 20th Street #130
Sacramento, CA 95811
Comedy Spot Training Center
Classes & Rehearsals Only
915 T Street
Sacramento, CA 95811