Comedy Classes for Teens and Adults Taught By Rik Roberts

A lot of people say you can’t teach funny.. but you can teach writing and you can give wanna-be comics some experience to help them hit the stage running. Comedian Rik Roberts is teaching a series of classes at Bongo Java for adults and an intro to comedy series this summer at the Nashville Public Library downtown for teens only.
Rik says, “I’m starting to get some real good folks who are in it for the long haul. The camaraderie these students have really helps them find some comedy buddies for support until they get over the hump.”
To sign up for classes, contact Rik Roberts at 1.888.895.8549 or email him at rik [at] rikroberts.com. Read on for details about each series of classes..

TEEN SERIES AT THE NASHVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
Intro to Improvisational Comedy Workshop
June 12th, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Free, class size limited, registration required
Quick – what does a term paper, cargo pants and an iPod have in common? All three of them can be tied together in a funny on-the spot sketch!
If you’ve ever thought, “I’m the funniest person I know” then we need you (and you need to get some new friends)! Why not meet them at this improvisational workshop? You will get you out of your seat and onto the stage to tap into your comedic wit. You’ll join others in creating instant comedy from both the common and bizarre. If you’ve ever watched “Whose Line is it Anyway?” and laughed hysterically, this class is for you!
Intro to Stand-Up Comedy Writing Workshop
June 19th, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Free, class size limited, registration required
Every successful stand-up comedian has one thing in common – good writing. Without structure there would be no laughs. What techniques do comedians use to get those laughs? Join us and find out!
In this class you’ll gain insight into the discipline necessary to create a stand-up comedy routine. You’ll learn what to write about, how to craft the joke and how to make it as funny as possible. You’ll analyze jokes from today’s top comics. You’ll learn what makes the great comedians stand out among the stand-ups.
Intro to Performing Stand-Up Comedy Workshop
June 26th, 12:00 – 2:00p.m.
Free, class size limited, registration required
Have you got some funny stories, good one-liners or impressions? Do you crack your friends up? Have you thought about taking it to the stage?
The only thing separating you from the microphone is yourself. In this workshop you’ll get your turn behind the microphone and in front of the audience. You’ll learn how to take stage with confidence. You’ll explore the many ways to deliver a punch line. You’ll get instant feedback as well as performance tips that will last a lifetime. Prepare 3-5 minutes of “clean” material and join in on the fun.

Bongo Afterhours Comedy Workshops
Held in the theater upstairs at Bongo Java across from Belmont University
Stand-up Comedy Writing Class
Mondays: April 30, May 7, 14 & 21
5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
$200
This class is designed to help you begin writing material, or taking material you already have and making it much funnier. This class is focused on writing and is strongly recommended for beginners and those who have attended open stages, but not developed the material as far as they know it can go. We’ll discuss and define YOUR style of humor. YOU will write material that can be honed into a building block in YOUR comedy act. Learn how to develop an “EYE” for comedy.
Past students have gone directly from the class to successful appearances at stand-up nights around town.
Introduction to Improv Comedy Class
Tuesdays: May 1, 8, 15 & 22
5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
$200
Learn the keys to basic Improvisational Comedy. This class is pure fun and will tap your hidden genius to find the hilarious you! Onstage ensemble workshops will help you “Get out of your Head” and into the moment. Learn how to generate creative thinking you can apply to auditions, interviews, speeches and Stand-Up Comedy. This is a workout for your brain and a release for your body. A great class to take with a friend!
Stand-Up Comedy Performance Class
Tuesdays: June 5, 12, 19 & 26
5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
$200
This class is for those who have a little material (5-7 minutes or more) and want to work on style, delivery and performance. Also great for those who have a fear of public speaking. Onstage workshops get YOU in front of the microphone and under the spotlight. YOU will learn how to memorize YOUR act, hit the stage with confidence, read a crowd and structure YOUR show. Final workshop is video taped and will be critiqued to get the most out of your performance.
For more info or to sign up for classes, contact Rik Roberts at 1.888.895.8549 or email him at rik [at] rikroberts.com.