Comedy Courses on Sale for September!

We can finally announce that our comedy courses will return Saturday September 30th 2023. The following courses are running from September:

FOUNDATION IMPROV

Learn the core skills and tenets of improvisation with this fun and friendly course. Each session will focus on a key skill; "Yes, And", Listening, Character, Objects, Story, Scenes and Games. Great for developing new performance skills, building confidence in communication (great for networking) and rediscovering your creativity! No previous experience necessary. More Info/Book Now

BEGINNING STAND-UP COMEDY

Write, develop and perform your first five minute set with this course. Each session will help you find your comedic voice, hone your on stage persona and craft your material with feedback from your tutor and peers. Great for anyone looking to develop comedic writing and delivery skills or build confidence in public speaking! No previous experience necessary. More Info/Book Now

INTERMEDIATE IMPROV

Continue to develop your improv skills as each week hones in on a specific skillset. We're still developing our curriculum for September with more new and exciting classes. Previous improv experience will be assumed. More Info/Book Now

comedy workshops manchester

WHEN/WHERE/HOW MUCH?

Workshops run for 8 sessions in the rehearsal spaces in the New Adelphi Building at The University of Salford. Due to venue unavailability, there will be two skip weeks so the course will conclude Saturday 2nd December. There are plenty of nearby paid parking options nearby and the building is just a short walk from Salford Crescent Station and several major bus routes. The venue is fully accessible.

We continually work to keep our comedy courses as affordable as possible and you can pay in full now or put down a £30 non-refundable deposit. Both the Foundation Improv and Beginning Stand-Up Comedy courses are £115 including the deposit. Intermediate Improv is £75 (also includes deposit). Alternatively, you can attend the intermediate sessions as a drop-in (£10 per session).

THERE ARE TWO FULL SCHOLARSHIP SPACES AVAILABLE for global majority applicants to the Foundation Improv course. Interested? Don't hesitate to get in touch as one of the three available spaces has already been claimed!

You can also book a space on any of these courses as a gift for friends, family or a colleague. You must pay IN FULL at time of booking. Please leave a note when making the booking that this is a gift including the recipients name. We will then contact you for the information of the person you have made the booking for and to send you a gift certificate.

Sign up to our mailing list for regular updates on all upcoming shows and workshops. Alternatively, follow us on social media for all the latest news! We are proudly part of CSz Worldwide and our workshop leaders are fully accredited.

New Workshop Dates for Autumn 2022!

We are delighted to announce new dates for our comedy courses in Manchester. Our courses in Improv and Stand-Up comedy will resume on Saturday 24th September. We're delighted that all workshops are returning to Saturdays and will take place in The New Adelphi Building at the University of Salford.

FOUNDATION IMPROV

Learn the core tenets and skills of improv performance with this fun and friendly 8 week course. Each week will look at developing a different skill; "Yes, And", Listening, Objects, Characters, Storytelling, Scene Work and Games. Whether you're looking to build confidence, make new connections, develop your communication skills or explore improv comedy, this course is for you! FIND OUT MORE HERE

INTERMEDIATE IMPROV

Already have some improv experience? Develop your skills with a rolling curriculum of workshops and exercises covering a wide variety of skills and topics. Book now for the full course or attend on a drop-in basis. FIND OUT MORE HERE

BEGINNING STAND UP COMEDY

Write your first stand-up comedy routine with this 8 week course. Develop your comedic style, build confidence in delivery and hone your writing and performance with guidance from a professional stand-up comedian. Whether you're a budding comedian or just want to improve confidence in public speaking, this course will help you develop the skills you need to craft and deliver your material. FIND OUT MORE HERE

Spaces for our comedy courses are available to book now - spaces are limited on each course. There are also 3 full scholarship places on each course available to global majority applicants. It is important to us to keep workshops as affordable as possible - you can secure a space now with a deposit or pay in full. You can also contact us if you need to make alternative payment arrangements.

We are excited to be returning our courses to The New Adelphi Building. Also, we are delighted to be returning to a fully accessible space. There are plenty of nearby parking options and the building is a short distance from Salford Crescent train station. The Campus is also accessible via bus (50, 51, V1, V2, 37, 38) from many locations. There are also plenty of options for some nearby social activity if you want to stick around after workshops.

We hope to see you at a workshop or show soon! If you have questions about any of our workshops or courses then don't hesitate to get in touch!

Comedy Workshops Return!

We are delighted to announce the return of in-person workshops from October 2021. We're running 8 week courses in Foundation Improv, Intermediate Improv and Beginning Stand-Up Comedy. Thank you for your continued interest and patience as we arrange suitable workshop spaces.

An eight week course designed to help introduce the basic theories, ideas and skills of improvisation. You don’t need to have any sort of background in performing or comedy to join in, just a willingness to get involved and have a good time. Not only useful for confidence building, stage presence, and play, but also a great opportunity to network and meet new people. The cost for the full eight weeks is £115 or £100 concessions. You can pay in full now or just pay a non-refundable £30 deposit to secure your space.

The course will commence Sunday 3rd October. Sessions will run Sunday afternoons 1-3pm for eight weeks at Gorse Hill Studios, Stretford. The venue is fully accessible with on street parking. The venue is also close to several bus routes and just a 15 minute walk from Old Trafford tram stop. Find out more.

An eight week course designed to give you your first foothold in the otherwise daunting world of Stand Up Comedy. Under expert tutelage you’ll receive all the skills you need to put together your first short stand-up comedy routine as well as fundamental skills like stagecraft, performance and microphone technique. The core of the course is a weekly workshop where the attendees will have a chance to prepare and try out their material in a supportive atmosphere. This course also includes a Showcase at the end of the 8 weeks for participants. The cost for the full eight weeks is £110 or £100 concessions. You can pay in full now or just pay a non-refundable £30 deposit to secure your space.

The course will commence Saturday 2nd October. Sessions will run Saturday afternoons 12.30-2.30pm for eight weeks at The Barking Dog, Urmston. Find out more.

We're running things a little differently for our advanced classes this time round. So we can keep things covid-secure for workshoppers and facilitators alike we're running this as a set eight week course. This allows us to keep a better track of numbers and ensure plenty of space for everyone - however, if you'd only be able to drop-in to some sessions you can drop us an email and we'll try to squeeze you in at a per-session rate. This course has a rolling syllabus so can be taken multiple times. Some of the topics covered in previous courses and drop-ins:
We'll be announcing a full line-up of sessions on our website in the coming weeks. The course will commence Sunday 3rd October. Sessions will run Sunday afternoons 3-5pm for eight weeks at Gorse Hill Studios, Stretford. The venue is fully accessible with on street parking. The venue is also close to several bus routes and just a 15 minute walk from Old Trafford tram stop. Find out more.
We can't wait to see you at a workshop or show soon. Want to catch us live? Visit our shows page for more info. Got questions about our workshops? Don't hesitate to get in touch!

Spring Intensives - Improv, Stand-Up and Sketch

We’re delighted to announce a programme of short courses in March-April 2020 including Foundation Improv, Beginning Stand-Up Comedy and Sketch Writing. These short intensive courses cover all the content of our longer workshops but are ideal for those unable to commit to an 8 week course.

These workshops are split over two Saturdays with both sessions running 12.30-5pm. Each course costs just £75 (inc. £30 non-refundable deposit). Full details can be found at the links below.

ComedySportz workshops are fun, friendly and affordable. Learn new skills, meet new people and rediscover your playful side. There's no experience necessary for any of these short courses. ComedySportz Manchester is part of CSz Worldwide, one of the world's largest comedy schools. Not sure which course is right for you? Get in touch and we'll be happy to answer any questions you have!

Workshops in improv, stand-up and sketch

Upcoming Short Courses

Sketch Writing [POSTPONED]

Explore ways of developing sketches for stages, screen and audio. From the perfect premise to the killer punchline this intensive course will look at ways of making the most of your comedic ideas.

Beginning Stand-Up Comedy [POSTPONED]

Hone your comedic voice and write your first 5 minute set. Great for anyone looking to take their first steps into the world of Stand-Up or build confidence in public speaking.

Foundation Improv 25th April-2nd May 2020

Learn the core skills of Improvisation with this intensive course. Great for anyone looking to develop listening and communication skills or get more confident going off-script. Book Here.

 

All Upcoming Workshops

All Upcoming Shows

 

Is A Comedy Course Right For Me?

Hi, Sean from ComedySportz here! I'm the person who responds to most of the emails that come to us regarding workshops with ComedySportz and I wanted to share the answers to some frequently asked questions about taking a comedy course with us.

If you're thinking about taking an improv comedy course or workshops in stand-up comedy I hope these answers will give you the confidence you need to book a space today - but please don't hesitate to get in touch if you'd like more information!

What courses do you run?

We currently run two regular 8 week courses; Foundation in Improv and Beginning Stand-Up Comedy. These courses run Saturdays for 8 weeks plus a showcase/jam for workshoppers. We also run shorter courses (including Longform Improv, Musical Improv, Presentation Skills and Sketch Writing) and regular advanced Improv Drop-Ins.

Who are you guys?

We’ve been entertaining audiences across the UK, USA and Europe since 2001 and host Manchester’s longest running improv comedy courses. Our facilitators are all professional comedians and improvisers and are fully accredited by CSzWorldwide, one of the world’s largest comedy schools. Our workshops have appeared in The Stage, Cosmo UK and The Guardian Online. As well as their own wealth of personal experience many of our workshop facilitators have also trained with the likes of iO, Second City and Keith Johnstone.

Oh, so you know your stuff then?

Yep. And we’re really nice too.

What happens on the Foundation in Improv course?

Over the 8 weeks we will cover the core skills of an improviser. Starting with “Yes, And” we explore listening and focus, creating characters, storytelling and object work. Each session builds on the last to create a tool belt of useful skills. Exercises have a big focus on group work and play. As the weeks progress we introduce you to scene work and improv games. You will receive active feedback and coaching that is constructive and encouraging. Above all, you’ll have a lot of fun and laughter.

What happens on the Beginning Stand-Up comedy course?

Over the 8 weeks, participants look at different aspects of stand-up performance. We take a look at the use of persona, point of view, attitude, performance techniques, and a multitude of different writing exercises. You will receive regular, constructive feedback on your material and delivery. We also make time to talk shop about how the industry works and how to continue either as a hobbyist or as someone who wishes to pursue comedy more professionally. The workshops finish with a showcase where all the participants are asked to present a 5-7 minute set.

Stand Up Workshops

I’m not very funny or imaginative, is that going to be a problem?

This is the most frequently asked question we receive and the answer might surprise you. We can't teach you to be funny ...because you already are!

The first thing to know is that you’re not alone – everyone is going to feel self-conscious on the first day of a comedy course. No one is expecting you to be super confident and capable on the first day of the course – that’s why we’re here!

For those taking Stand-Up we will share a number of writing exercises to help you craft material and shape your jokes. Workshops are a safe and supportive environment to try new things and explore different perspectives. Let us guide you to find the confidence of voice and character to share your comedic skill.

Meanwhile, the best improvisers aren’t worrying about being the most imaginative or the funniest, they’re simply giving 100% commitment and focus to the moment and then reacting accordingly. If you're trying to be funny this often means you’re in your head and not just enjoying and reacting honestly to the scene.

So, take the pressure off yourself and you’ll be surprised by how naturally funny and imaginative you can be!

Okay, that’s good to know. So which comedy course is right for me?

Unfortunately we can’t answer this one for you but hopefully we can help you make the decision that is right for you. It depends on what you want out of the course and chances are your gut is already pulling you in the right direction.

It’s important to remember that not everyone that takes a course wants to be a performer. For some classes are an opportunity to play and meet new people or to build confidence in a specific area (public speaking, networking, communication). We are always happy to discuss how skills can be applied to life both on- and off-stage.

The ability to adapt and improvise to situations is increasingly useful in both the performing and business worlds. Workshops can help build the resilience to face difficult situations with an open and enthusiastic mindset.

Although both Improv and Stand-Up courses run at the same time, we run the courses several times a year so you can always take one now and the other later! Some people take the Improv course to build confidence and then take the Stand-Up course because they now feel ready to get up in front of people. Others might take the Stand-Up course first and then take improv to make them feel more confident ad-libbing or going “off script”.

I’m going to miss a week of the course, is that a problem?

We’ll always work hard to catch you up if you miss a week – just let us know if you’re unable to attend. If you end up missing a large chunk of the course due to unforeseen circumstances we are often able to transfer you to the next course if we feel this will give you a better experience. We do have a cut-off point for joining a course (no later than the second week) as you will have missed core groundwork and group bonding.

Can I go straight to the Advanced Improv Drop-In?

Our drop-ins are designed for people who have done some improv training before, whether an 8 week or intensive course with us or elsewhere. If you’ve not done any Improv for a while you might want to consider taking our Foundation Course to ease back into it.

We always suggest you be honest with yourself as to where you feel you are on your improv journey. This is as much for your benefit as it is for others in the session.

Is the workshop space wheelchair accessible?

Our workshop spaces are fully wheelchair accessible. Feel free to drop us an email if there is anything you think we need to know to best assist you before a course starts.

I’m not sure I want to commit to an 8 week comedy course. Can I just take the first class and go from there?

As spaces on workshops are limited we ask people to commit to the full length of the course. You could be taking a space from someone who really wanted to do it! We are always happy to discuss any worries you might have about the course and we work hard to make classes fun, friendly and supportive.

We do understand however that 8 weeks can be a big commitment so run shorter comedy workshops and courses during the summer. These short courses cover the core skills in a much more condensed space of time. We update our workshops pages regularly with new dates. You can also sign up to our mailing list to receive monthly news about upcoming classes.

ComedySportz Comedy Courses Fun and Friendly!

Money is a little tight at the moment, do I have to pay all at once?

You can secure a space on a comedy course by paying a non-refundable £30 deposit. The remainder is due on the first day of the course. However, we do understand that circumstances can change so can make arrangements to pay in instalments if necessary.

Can I book a course as a gift?

Absolutely! There is no better gift than laughter with friends and loved ones. Just let us know when making the booking that this is for someone else. Please include the recipient’s name and contact details so we can contact them with information about the course. Let us know if you need us to contact them after a specific date so we don't spoil the surprise. We can also email you a gift certificate and info sheet to present on the day.

You must make payments for gifts at the full price of the course. If the recipient is not able to attend the course dates they can be transferred onto the next course.

Book a course for a friend or loved one, huh? Can I book a comedy course for someone I hate?

Sure, but they'll have a great time so we're not sure what you're hoping to achieve.

I mean, you would say that. What do other people who have taken courses think?

Here is just a sample of the feedback we’ve received on our courses. You can find more on our workshops page.

“Signing up to do the Improv course, then actually turning up and completing it was a challenge for me as it was definitely something out of my comfort zone. I hugely enjoyed it and that was partly because of the great group of fellow Improvers, but also the great tutors. [They] were very good at giving feedback in a positive way and pushing us to improve without ever making us feel rubbish, whatever our skill level!” Marie Rolli (Doctor)

“I can’t recommend ComedySportz Manchester enough. I’ve just done an 8 week standup course with them and it was fun, inspirational, challenging and very very worthwhile. I can’t wait to do the improv and further comedy writing courses with them.” Vicky Green (Radio Presenter)

“Improv is genuinely the MOST fun you can have on a Saturday afternoon….. learning the basics of impro at a relaxed pace, with fun teachers. It’s a treat… games, scenes, stories, characters, and lots and lots of laughing…it’s the antidote to a boring/routine life. Get out of the house and into the class!” Claire Westood (Wellness and Coach Trainer)

I hope this has given you a little confidence to book a comedy course with ComedySportz. We’re always happy to answer any questions you have over email. Alternatively, you can speak to us in person after one of our shows - we're always happy to help!

More Information

Foundation Improv Course

Beginning Stand-Up Comedy Course

All Upcoming Shows