Rik Roberts

October 2, 2014October 2, 2014

School of Laughs Writing Class Starts Monday October 6 – Enroll Now – 4 spots left

The next round of Rik Roberts’ School of Laughs Stand-Up Comedy Writing class at Zanies starts Monday, October 6th. We’re told there are just four spots left, so register now!

Here’s more info from Rik:

Stand-Up Comedy Writing
Mondays October 6, 13 & 20
Time: 6:00-7:30 PM @ Zanies in Nashville
Investment: $200 total

To Register: E-mail me at SchoolOfLaughs@gmail.com with your name, cell phone and the words “Zanies Writing Register” in the subject heading.

There is no previous experience required for this course.The Stand-Up Comedy Level One: Writing class is the foundation for beginners and intermediate comics (open mic performers).

In this class you will discover:

* How to turn a story into a comedy routine

* Why some things are funny and others aren’t

* How to put your personality into your jokes

* How many laughs per minute comedians aim for

* How to edit like a ninja!

* Why some comics never succeed

* How the best comics prepare their material

* Where inspiration comes from

* How to destroy writer’s block

* Why it is important to vary your jokes

* A secret comedy trick that leads to bigger laughs

* How to avoid common mistakes beginners make

* More than a dozen techniques comics use to make material solid and consistent.

These tips will be revealed through various examples, including:

* Watching comics on Letterman and breaking down why they make certain choices.

* Writing jokes and have an opportunity to share in class

* Homework challenges to get your brain and pen in high gear

and several other interactive approaches.

We don’t get onstage, however. So it’s a pressure-free environment where you can speak up as much (or as little) as you like.

As an added bonus, this class comes with a “Lifetime Warranty.” Once you’ve paid for the class, you can attend any and all following writing class sessions at no extra charge. So you can apply the knowledge as you progress through the ranks of comedy to make it a custom fit every time!

To Register: E-mail me at SchoolOfLaughs@gmail.com with your name, cell phone number and the words “Zanies Writing Register” in the subject heading.

I will follow up with an email explaining what to expect, how to pay, etc., Hurry and send that email if you want to make it into the class, only 4 spots left.

=== OTHER CLASSES ===

Stand-Up Comedy Level Two: Performance 
Mondays in November (TBA) @ Zanies in Nashville
Group One 5:30-7:30,
Group Two 8:00-9:30 PM
$200 total

Online Class
The Level One: Writing Class is now on line and available in three different editions based on your experience. Click the link below to learn more!

http://www.schooloflaughs.com/online-classes/

Business of Comedy

This class will be offered in October or November and may be offered to a limited group (8 students) on a Saturday. Please reply if you are interested. Full description amiable at:

http://www.schooloflaughs.com/upcoming-live-classes/

January 13, 2014

School of Laughs: on page, on stage, online

Beginning in July of last year, Rik Roberts started to recreate his “School of Laughs” Stand-Up Level One: Writing course ad an online version. Rik says:

It has been an incredible learning curve! Teaching one on one through web & video is entirely different than the current in house lecture format.

I’ve read some books, joined forums and consulted with various others who provide their content to their students online. I’ve taken several classes online as well, to get the student perspective of online learning. The result? I believe I will be able to offer you an incredible self-paced option for taking the class.

It translates into:

– Over 30 video lessons complete with .pdf support and bonus materials to further the concepts

– Completely rewritten lessons, self-contained and with more examples – as well as more examples from students

– More live show examples to reinforce the techniques

– Stronger emphasis on joke structures, joke “generators”, and ideas for getting new material

– A comprehensive section on structuring your set, grouping jokes, understanding your audience and selecting appropriate material

– A variable price plan based on how much feedback you want

– And more to announce later!

This massive online project is 80% complete and will be in video production this month. I hope to have it up and available by March at the latest.

That is part of the reason it’s been two months between classes. I needed the extra time to do this right and between performing and another writing project I had to grab those Mondays and hunker down.

So stay tuned for more on the online course and definitely let me know if you are interested in exploring this option.

Other news …

Tentative class dates are below for all classes in the first quarter.

Due to both my own travel schedule and Zanies booking policies dates aren’t usually locked in until a couple of weeks in advance. All classes take place on Mondays.

Stand-Up Level One: Writing February 3, 10, 24 from 6:00-7:30 PM @ Zanies. $200

Stand-Up Level Two: Performance March 3, 17, 31 from 6:00-8:30 PM @ Zanies. $200

Intro to Improv Level One: Games April 7, 14, 21 from 6:00-8:00 PM @ Zanies. $200

Business of Comedy – TBA

If you would like your name added to the “pre-register” list for any of these classes just reply and let me know which ine you are interested in attending.

Remember – you can also JOIN S.O.L. on FACEBOOK to stay in the loop as well.

Thanks again for your interest – I look forward to helping you be even funnier,

Rik Roberts
Principal / Janitor
School of Laughs
www.schooloflaughs.com
comedyhomework @ aol . com

February 22, 2013February 22, 2013

Remembering Brian E. Kiley

As most of you have heard, Nashville comedian and former School of Laughs student Brian E. Kiley died at the hands of a drunk driver last weekend. He had just worked with John Reep (of Last Comic Standing fame) who he had opened for several times on the road before.

Brian started in the classes in January 2007 with a really special group of folks. He was the kind of student I really enjoy. He actually did all of his homework, re-wrote jokes, e-mailed and called me for insight, etc., As a teacher/mentor I knew all of my tips would be at least listened to and explored. I’m definitely not always right, but Brian took advice and tested it. Making his adjustments and making it work.

When I wanted to teach a Business of Comedy class, Brian taught me how to put together a Power Point. When I had new writing classes start, Brian was one of several former students who were always game to volunteer their time to help me get them their nametags, workbooks, etc., so I could focus on getting class started.

More than once he made notes to give to me to help make the classes better. He constantly was providing encouragement and guidance to new students and open mic comics as well.

School of Laughs' 1st graduation show 2007 — School of Laughs’ 1st graduation show 2007

He had been over to my house, met my family and remembered my kid’s names. He helped my wife organize a 40th Birthday roast for me at Zanies that was really special.

We worked several shows together outside of Zanies. He was getting better and better on stage every time I saw him. He could kick off a show with great energy and could keep a show going just as well. I’m sure over time he would have continued to grow, learn and worked his way up the comedy ladder.

I can’t explain how bad I feel for his family – a recent marriage that came with a daughter that he just adored. I felt partially responsible for his fate, having helped him get started in comedy. He wouldn’t have been out that late, on that road, that day if he had stayed home and just kept to his day job. We all know that accidents like this can happen at any time to anyone. I just wish it wouldn’t have happened to Brian.

What I do know is that in the short amount of time that he devoted to comedy he made a ton of friends, entertained a lot of strangers and gave everything 110%. Brian will be missed by many, and I think if there is any bright spot in this tragic ending, it’s that he always had a positive attitude in a sometime dark profession.

Brian left the stage for the last time Saturday. But I believe his memory will be around for quite awhile to come.

Funeral services are set for Saturday February 23 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints
107 Twin Hills Drive, Madison, TN 37115

Visitation will be 12:00 – 1:00 PM, Service at 1:00 PM.

Burial will follow at Christ Church Memorial Gardens 15354 Old Hickory Blvd Nashville 37211

December 18, 2012December 18, 2012

2013 School Of Laughs Comedy Class Dates Announced

school_of_laughs Happy Holidays Comedy Fan!

Well, the wait is over. New dates for the Stand-Up Comedy Level One: Writing class are here! We’ll meet on Mondays January 7, 21 & 28 from 5:30-7:30 @ Zanies in Nashville. The investment is $200 total. Gift certificates can be purchased if you would like someone to play Santa Claus.

E-mail me at comedyhomework @ aol com if you would like to officially register with:

1. Your full name
2. Your cell #
3. Preferred method of payment (check, Paypal, credit/debit card, cash)

(Optional Information)
4. A brief note describing any performing or writing experience
5. A link to any youtube video of you performing

The Stand-Up Comedy Level One: Writing class is the foundation for beginners and intermediate comics. In this class we learn over a dozen techniques comics use to make material solid and consistent. We watch comics on Letterman and break down why they make certain choices. We write jokes and have an opportunity to share in class. We don’t get onstage, however. So it’s a pressure-free environment where you can speak up as much (or as little) as you like.

As an added bonus, this class comes with a “Lifetime Warranty”. Once you’ve paid for the class you can attend any and all following writing class sessions at no extra charge. So you can apply the knowledge as you progress through the ranks of comedy to make it a custom fit every time!

—

The Stand-Up Comedy Level Two: Performance classes are tentatively scheduled for Mondays in February 2013. We’ll meet three times in this class and the investment is $200 total. E-mail me at comedyhomework@aol.com with “Stand-By Performance Class” if you would like to be on the stand-by list.

The Performance class is designed to get you onstage. We experiment with voices, act outs, impressions, emotion and other performance techniques to make your material pop. You will also get lots of feedback on the material you present from myself and the other students.

In this class you will begin to develop a 3 minute set you can use as your graduation piece at Zanies.

You are encourage to bring a recording device to these sessions so you can watch it back later and take additional steps to improve your performance.

—

Intro to Improv Comedy Level One: Games
We will sample many of the games you have seen on “Whose Line is it Anyway?” as well as many you may have never seen. You’ll learn the ground rules that apply to Improvisational Comedy. You’ll be onstage a LOT and will learn to trust your instincts.

You’ll also benefit if you are pursuing stand-up comedy. All of the games in this course can be applied to writing and developing your material. Many students develop characters and bits that they integrate into their act.

The Intro to Improv Comedy Level One: Games classes are tentatively scheduled for Mondays in February or March 2013. We’ll meet three times in this class and the investment is $200 total. E-mail me at comedyhomework@aol.com with “Intro to Improv Class” if you would like to be on the stand-by list.

—

The Bu$ine$$ of Comedy Seminar
You will learn more about the business side of being funny in this session than some comics learn in their entire career. You can take this class without any experience. It is a real eye opener into the world of comedy as a living. Among other topics, we’ll discuss …

What goes in my promo kit?
When should I approach the clubs?
How do I get in with bookers?
How do I promote myself? Do I need a web site?
What is deductible?
HOW MUCH DO COMEDIANS MAKE?
What market best suits my act?
What is a realistic time line for my career?
What merchandise sells? Where do I get it?
What should I do for free and where do I draw the line?
and MUCH, MUCH MORE!!!

This class will be offered in the Spring/Summer of 2013. We’ll meet one time for this 3hr class and the investment is $99 total.

E-mail me at comedyhomework@aol.com with “Business of Comedy Class” if you would like to be on the stand-by list.

Friend The Rik Roberts School of Laughs on www.FACEBOOK.com

Check out videos of former students:

http://schooloflaughs.tumblr.com/

www.schooloflaughs.com

comedyhomework @ aol . com

Rik Roberts
Principal / Janitor
School of Laughs

Twitter.com/RikRoberts

September 14, 2012September 14, 2012

Rik Roberts’ School of Laughs: Huntsville Workshop, Nashville Performance & Writing Classes

EDITOR’S NOTE: Comedian Rik Roberts’ “School Of Laughs” has several fantastic classes available covering writing, performance, improv, and the business of comedy. Rik is a seasoned veteran and a well respected comic. His classes are well worth every penny and are highly recommended to anyone who would like to learn the ins and outs of the business from somebody who knows what they’re talking about. Here’s the latest from Rik:

Hunstville, AL
Comedy Workshop – September 29

Level Two: Performance Class
Mondays, September 24, October 1, 15

Level One: Writing Class
[Tentatively] Mondays October 29, November 5 & 12

Huntsville, AL Comedy Workshop!
The School of Laughs is happy to announce a unique opportunity! I will be leading a comedy workshop in Huntsville, AL on Saturday morning September 29 from 9:30AM-12:30PM at The Von Braun Center (700 Monroe Street Huntsville, Alabama 35801).

The workshop will cover techniques as well as performance tips and feedback on a short set you have prepared. We will analyze, write and briefly perform a set all in one session!

The investment is $75.

This is a great chance for those of you who have expressed interest in a “weekend” class. You will get a ton of great information and motivation to put together a comedy routine!

Furthermore … you have the option of attending my stand-up show at the Von Braun Center’s “Comedy Night in the Valley” the night before as part of a “package deal”. The show starts at 7:30 PM on the 28th.

The Friday night show tickets are $20 if you buy them separate. However, you can mention that you are attending the comedy workshop and receive a “package rate” of $85. For the package deal, you will need to contact rocketcitycomedy@gmail.com

Tickets for the show only are available on line at TICKETMASTER.COM.

Be sure to e-mail me to save your spot at the workshop … comedyhomework@aol.com. Please put “HUNTSVILLE WORKSHOP” in the subject header. In the e-mail, let me kmow your name, cell#, perferred method of payment, and if you have any previous comedy or performing experience. I will follow up with a confirmation e-mail and more information.

===

Stand-Up Comedy Level Two: Performance Class
NOW ENROLLING!
Mondays, September 24, October 1, & 15
@ Zanies Nashville

Pick one of the following time frames…
4:00-6:00 PM (5 spots left)
or 6:30-8:30 PM (3 spots left)
The 3 session investment is $200 total

About the class:

This class consists of three sessions. In each class you will go on stage for a short set. After your set you will get feedback from myself and then the other students. Feedback will include ideas and angles to clarify your premise, punch line and tag lines. We’ll offer suggestions on how to take your jokes further, as well as constructive criticism on your stage presence, delivery and ability to relate.
Each week there will be some “homework” geared toward preparing a more solid set for the next time. The class is 100% constructive but you will need to have a little thick skin to take advantage of everything involved.

I limit the size of the class so we can give everyone ample time for feedback and have enough for an “audience” for the students onstage. Students who have taken the writing class have the priority when signing up, followed by new students who have had SOME performing and writing experience outside of the School of Laughs.

Students who successfully navigate the writing and performing classes are invited to a GRADUATION show at Zanies where they will perform a 3 minute set. The set will be recorded and given to you on a DVD along with an evaluation of that set. The graduation set must be CLEAN.

If interested, send me an e-mail: comedyhomework@aol.com with your name, cell #, preferred method of payment (check, cash, credit card), and any stand-up comedy experience. If you have never taken a School Of Laughs class please include a link to a Youtube clip of a recent performance.
—-

Stand-Up Comedy Level One: Writing
[Tentatively] Mondays October 29, November 5 & 12
5:30-7:30 PM @ Zanies Nashville
The 3 session class investment is $200 total

If interested… send me an e-mail: comedyhomework@aol.com with your name, cell #, preferred method of payment (check, cash, credit card), and any stand-up comedy experience.

If you are starting from scratch this is your class. If you have “dabbled” in stand-up and can’t find the consistency you need from your material, this is your class. If you write, blog, tweet or just want to find out how to be funnier … this class is for you.
Ask yourself the following questions. Be honest with yourself!
How solid is your material now?
Do you know the reason each joke gets a laugh?
What techniques suit you the best?
Are you able to mix it up for different types of crowds?
Can you turn a story into a comedy bit?
Do your jokes get consistent laughs?
Are you able to get a laugh every 15 seconds or so?
If you don’t know some of the answers, then you’d benefit enormously from the writing class!
You can pay by check, credit card or money order. Once you’ve paid for the writing class once you have a “Lifetime” membership which allows you to attend any and all of the future writing classes at no extra cost.

Any questions? Feel free to e-mail and ask!

Thanks!

Rik