If you've read the reviews, there should be nothing more to add--Gerry IS and his classes ARE life-altering. But I did want to add my own personal experience to festival of Gerry Love. When I thought of pursuing Stand Up-- "lost the job, lost the house, bought a ticket to the West Coast...now she gives em a stand up routine in LA" , when that was playing in my head and in my life, I found Gerry on line and once we moved to LA, I called Gerry before we even called the gas company . From the moment we spoke there was a love and an enthusiasm, not just for Stand Up but for Teaching and for Mentoring--a desire to open the mysteries of comedy to ensure we all feel the joy of looking behind that curtain. Once in the class, he creates two rare and wonderful things: He creates a family with his students--he insists we become writers and artists together and he nurtures this family feeling until we do become all-for-one. This group, this feeling is so rare and so much more valuable than almost anything else, especially in the Arts. He also invests himself in each of his students--their struggles and triumphs are his. He is a Mentor even more than a teacher: Just a few hours before our showcase, I was terrified--although I had rehearsed and should have been fine, I was in panic mode--no words would come to mind and I was NOT going to go on that night. Gerry calmly took me for a walk around the block, having me say my lines, tell my jokes, feel my words and thoughts--around and around the block, until I did go on that night and my set was even better than I imagined it could be. I never need to be 'nurse-maided', but in that moment, I did, and Gerry was there. For these and so many other reasons, Gerry is one of the most unique and inspiring people I've had the pleasure of working with. thank you Gerry. read more

Standup Comedy Class - Gerry Katzman's scared but triumphant student, Isadora O'Boto at the Comedy Union--first stand up set. - Performing Arts Near Me

Why should you take Gerry's class? 1. It works. 2. See above. I've always loved standup but lacked either the courage or discipline (or both)....but Gerry's class has been life-changing. Great teaching occurs when both the student and the teacher respect each other. Great learning occurs when both the student and the teacher put in the work. This all happens in Gerry's class, all in helpful, supportive, love-filled environment. Also, the community Gerry nurtures is an amazing one: the alumni are friendly, helpful and approachable. My fellow comics in class are some of my favorite people in the world. Gerry prepares you to REALLY be a standup comic. He also doesn't leave you hanging when you are finished with the class. You continue to grow and learn and make the funny. That, plus you have some awesome, talented friends to do shows with. Yes, the class is expensive, but it's worth it, and you'll see the value from the first class (then you'll see the value grow exponentially as you go). Should you do it? Do it. read more

I've never been in a class where each person was committed, supportive, and there to make each other better. The culture Gerry fosters is a direct result of his personality: he cares about you as an individual. He's available. He checks to make sure you're okay in/out of the classroom. He works tirelessly with you to make you the best you can be, and listens to you if you're having issues. Bottom line: he's just an excellent teacher. I'm so grateful for the skills learned and the community I became a part of. Just take the class--you couldn't me more glad to have tried something in your life. read more

Gerry is interested in you, as a comic as an artist as a human being. Taking his class gave me insight and structure to write and create better and faster than I ever had done before. I just had an amazing meeting with a Manager today and it went so well, so much of that is because of Gerry. I got the meeting with the Manager because they liked what they saw on my tape from the showcase, not only that but Gerry has a great video online about how to be great in a meeting and it allowed me to walk in there feeling so prepared and professional. Gerry also took the time to get on the phone and go over and role play what a meeting like this would be. You don't get that kind of interest from most teachers in your life. Gerry wants you to excel and he excels at going above and beyond to support you along your journey. Know this man, he's a part of the answer. read more

Gerry makes the comedy happen. If you feel like you have it in you, he will bring it out. The class also becomes a family you wish you always had. There's a reason for the "everyone should take gerry's class" you hear so much. read more

I'd love to write a joke here just to show you how funny this class made me but I think it's even more important to share what a meaningful growth experience this class has been in my life. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to learn from Gerry Katzman. He is a gentle, kind Buddha of a teacher who took us on a wonderful crash course in comedy. I learned so much! This class offers a very safe space to learn and grow and lots of personal attention and I would recommend it to anyone interested in comedy. You have to work in this class, but just like Alcoholics Anonymous, it works if you work it. And it's worth it. read more

I've spent a decade of my life being scared to take a standup class. The thought of performing onstage was terrifying. Gerry has a talent taking the completely inexperienced and getting you prepared with funny material in 11 weeks! It truly is amazing. He is a open, patient, knowledge about the business and takes you through a fun but structured process that makes you succeed. It has been the biggest rush!!!! read more

Gerry was able to take a total novice like myself from no comedic experience to an industry level stand up performance in 10 weeks. He has a remarkable gift for comedy and for teaching you a process and craft that will serve you forever. There is a safe and loving container created in which you can explore how to turn the hurts of your life into laughter or to just lighten up about yourself generally (we could all use a little of this no?). read more

I have no idea how to express the amazingness that is this class and that is Gerry Katzman. Hands down, it and he have absolutely changed my life. This is seriously the BEST class I have ever taken. It is not only a standup class, it is a LIFE class. And Gerry has a unique ability to approach this art form with infinite warmth and love. I have been around the block and have been in Los Angeles for 13 years. I have been an actor for almost 20 years and I have been doing comedy forever....BUT, this class has shifted the way I view comedy, the business, etc. Before this class, I was so ready to leave LA. And I had no idea what I was doing in terms of standup. I was paralyzed with fear. NOW, I can honestly say I love standup! I feel invigorated and almost like I have a new beginning. That is 100 percent due to Gerry. He GENUINELY cares about each and every one of his students. He will stop at NOTHING in order to make sure each student has a great set that is not only consistently funny, but also in that particular person's voice. It's incredible to see and feel this happen. He creates a dynamic in the classroom that I have never experienced and that dynamic inspires a tribe that you will walk away with and continue collaborating with. Gerry teaches how to write jokes, he teaches how to be abundant, he teaches performance, he teaches love, he teaches power, he teaches you how to believe in yourself, he teaches community, he teaches confidence...I can go on and on. He will also challenge you and force you to become the best version of yourself. He will push you. He will do everything he can...you will wonder how he has the time...my guess is that he never sleeps! This class is practical and it will be a good fit for you if you have a desire to be great! ;) I wish I could have a mini-Gerry with me everywhere I go. I am beyond grateful and because of him, I'm gonna stay in Los Angeles a little while longer! :) read more

I took Gerry's class with no idea where to begin with stand-up. I considered just going to open-mic's and 'trying stuff' but that didn't feel right. I fell upon Gerry's name through a recommendation from Carolyn Barry and the rest is history. Gerry cares about us, he creates an atmosphere of positive reinforcement, and he guided us through the rocky terrain. People come up to me now and ask how many years I've been doing this, and when I tell them I've only done a couple shows, they have trouble comprehending that! Thanks Gerry... read more

Absolutely Priceless. Gerry is DA MAN! I was in class hoping to learn some basic foundations of Stand Up Comedy performance and what I got was SO MUCH MORE. I have never had a teacher be so dedicated to each student's progress. Week after week he would show up dedicated to making sure your act WORKS. I wish I had a video of our class' showcase because EVERY SINGLE PERSON got a terrific response and that in itself should be an indicator of how wonderful the class is and how his technique works! He really does create an amazing and supportive environment in the class. I really feel like I walked away with life long friendships. Some of us even started booking (we've only been out of class for a month now). I cannot recommend this class enough to anyone even remotely interested in stand up comedy! read more

Great work Gerry. I am happy to find an excellent teacher who can help me improve my craft. Took another class taught by Greg at thecomedyinstitute. It was horrible, the guy had no idea what he was doing and just took everyones money. I should have realized when he stole his websites name from a comedy school back east and got kicked off Americas got talent for stealing the hosts set. read more

Gerry is amazing. He is a wizard of comedy. Lighting skills that propel you to be way better than you've been. His class is supportive and nurturing while very honest, making for the a perfect space for growth. This class fast forwards you years into the business. I would say it would've taken me three years to get to where I am now after only 10 weeks. The culture he promotes is transformative as well. He reverses the zero sum mentality and affirms the fact that we really are all on the same team. Take this class. read more

I've taken countless comedy classes religiously for the past 10 years and Gerry's class was the most rewarding out all of them. You walk away not only knowing structure of stand up comedy, but also your voice and what makes you funny, which is the biggest gift of all. He creates a space where everyone feels comfortable and are allowed to explore and find their humor without restrictions or the feeling that you have to write jokes that your teacher thinks is funny. I left feeling like I finally figured out why I love comedy so much, what makes me unique and what makes me funny and I will forever be grateful for that. Gerry gives each of his student so much of his time, you never feel alone or confused because as soon as you do, Gerry is there calling to check in. It is a hard class, it is intimidating and you have to dedicate a chunk of your time to it, but you leave with a confidence in yourself that is priceless. This class energized me and created a group of people who understand, listen and pitch jokes just for me; it has been an amazing experience. I will forever recommend this class! read more

Gerry's class was life changing. I have always wanted to be on stage but never knew where to start, and this was the place. This was the first time this class was done virtually, which allowed a special group of us to come together from all different places, make each other laugh each week, and connect in such a special way (especially during quarantine). I learned so much from Gerry, not only how to write, construct and act out a joke, but also just how to be a better human. He is a very special person that has impacted our lives in such a great way. I cannot recommend this class enough and hope that it brings the next class as much joy as it has brought all of us. read more

Gerry Katzman is not just a stand up teacher, he is a mentor, a comedic genius, and a fantastic human being. I took this comedy class because I love stand up and I always wanted to try it one day. Not only did I get to "try" stand up, I gained from this class a unique perspective on teamwork and trust. The people you will meet in this class will help guide your process, they will help you to get to the meat of what is funny and unique to you. Gerry gives so much of his time, heart, and soul to every person in his class to ensure that you get the most out of this experience! This class,was one of the most exhilarating and more "worth it" things I have ever done. Could not recommend it more. Take this class if you want to; learn how to be a better writer, a funnier person, a more introspective person, a more honest person and overall a happier person! read more

This is it. Trust me, if you're looking for the best standup comedy class, let me save you some time and tell you right now, this is the place. I have to write though, this class is not easy. Gerry pushes you (gently), to be insightful, authentic, vulnerable and in the end... Really funny! I've always known I wanted to pursue standup and be able to hold my own on stage, but it felt almost impossible to take on, but now, it's happening! Gerry is unbelievably attentive as a coach and extremely generous with his time, but on top of that, Gerry has created a community of phenomenal comedians who are also right there with you every step of the way! It's amazing. I can't express enough how thankful I am for taking this class. If standup is something you're thinking about, don't think twice, seriously, you will not be disappointed! read more

Before I took the class I looked at these reviews and saw all the 5 star glowing reviews, which actually made me suspicious of how good this could be. Against all suspicions I dove in waiting to see something less worthy of 5 stars. I didn't see anything 4 star worthy, or 3, 2, 1, only 5 star. Don't get me wrong, I FELT less than 5 stars (I often rate my moods using the yelp system) many times about my comedic ability but Gerry is SO fucking committed to every single person that he'll keep you up when you're down, all to show you at the end of the class that you can crush this if you work hard. If you put in the work you will get the same level of commitment from Gerry if not more. You will meet awesome people that want to help you and you in turn will help them; which will make you feel good. The class allows you to more readily access the funny that already exists in you to write more efficiently and effectively. read more

To put it simply, you won't find a better comedy class than this one. Gerry Katzman has cultivated a learning environment that will equip you with the knowledge, skills and confidence to write and perform real comedy. Not the cheap puns and pithy observations that clutter up open mics. Instead you will have the opportunity to perform the kind of material that comes from deep inside you and speaks to the shared human experience. The type of comedy that makes people think while also making them laugh their butts off. This class goes beyond what you would expect in a typical stand up 101 class. The essentials are there of course: mic technique, joke structure and refining your delivery/preformance. But what sets it apart is the sense of community that will develop between you, your classmates and Gerry. I have never met teacher who invests more time and energy into their students than Gerry Katzman. During the duration of my class he was a constant source of support, advice and at times maddening frustration. But even when we butted heads I never lost faith that his number one priority was to push me to do better. Make no mistake this class was easily one of the most challenging experiences of my life. But if you respect the process, put in the work and check your ego at the door you will come away from this class a stronger performer and a better person. If you're ready to get serious about performing comedy and want to join a group of talented, intelligent and loving people then give Gerry a call. DISCLAIMER: This class is not a cult. Gerry Katzman is not a cult leader. This is class is not a cult. read more

Gerry's class is incredible. I was skeptical of the reviews myself when I first saw them...like "ok, so how good can this be?" but it really that good. Gerry puts together well vetted groups of smart, funny people. He keeps the class accountable and engaged. He really cares, really knows his stuff and gives you all the support you need to get great material. He works out the beginner kinks and first-time mistakes. And the end product is truly awesome. read more

Amazing!!! im truly speechless. The classes are incredible!! Gerry provides a place for his students that is supportive and encouraging. The students/classmates/your team is amazing and they will help you along your journey and help you grow. you will also get to be apart of your classmates growth as well. This class is no walk in the park though, you will have to put in the work. i would stay up late nights and early mornings, but i wouldn't change it for the world. I LOVE THIS CLASS!! if i could take it all over again, i would in a heartbeat. As for Gerry, i dont know where to start. He is one of the most amazing, caring, loving people in this crazy mixed up world. He truly cares about your growth and wants to see you succeed. He wont let you fail. he works with you no matter how long something might take or no matter the time of day. Heres one moment that i will never forget from my experience with Gerry. right before the showcase gerry asked me how i was feeling and i told him ok. he knew i was nervous. so he took me outside and we walked and talked and had a little heart to heart. we rehearsed my set a few times and he told me i was going to be fine. even though it was almost time to go on, Gerry didnt rush our time and he made me feel like everything was going to be great, and it was. You have to trust the man! he knows what hes doing. read more

I don't normally write reviews, but there is something amazing about this class. It has changed my life. Gerry is an experienced, keen teacher. He guides the class with a steady and deft hand. But what really sets this class from any entertainment class in Los Angeles (acting and comedy alike) is the community that he has meticulously created. Gerry consciously creates an environment that is supportive and collaborative. If you're lucky enough to be selected for the class, you will not regret it. read more

A transformative class and the best kickstart to performing comedy. Gerry takes you from a nervous wreck to a performer in the best, most supportive, and loving environment. He truly cares as a teacher and a person, makes himself available for endless help 24/7, & teaches you everything you need to know to write & perform comedy. His class is life changing - full of meaningful connections and community and wow, can't recommend it enough. Best decision ever, best class read more

Gerry Katzman cares more about being kind and compassionate to one another than he does about making comedy. And that's why the comedy that is made in this 10-week class is sweeter than any other. You get to learn how to do stand up in a loving environment. In ten short weeks, you go from 'how do you do stand up?' to crushing at a Showcase in front of friends and family. Gerry cares about his friends and his students (who become his friends). He is extremely good at what he does. He has knowledge to pass along. He has wisdom. He is a sweetheart. If Stand Up is on your bucket list of things to try before you die or if you feel like you might be the next Seinfeld, this is the only class you need to take. read more

Taking this class was the best decision I have ever made. There is something truely satisfying about feeling like you have realized your potential, and I never would have reached mine without taking this class. The beauty of this class is that it helps you uncover what makes YOU funny. Everyone in my class had a different style- even though we were working from the same techniques. Not only is Gerry a genius, but what really sets him apart is his passion to help his students. He will go the extra mile to see his students succeed. If you want to do stand up comedy, if it is your dream, than this is what you have been looking for. read more

You can read all of these amazing reviews from former students that have all had amazing experiences as well as go to one of Gerry's showcases which will literally solidify everything we all have to say. I can't recommend this class enough. You will learn so much so quickly and have the best time with the strong knit group of students Gerry pieces together. This class has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Not only will you leave this class with an amazing 5 - 10 minute set that would take most people years to achieve, you will depart with a community of comedians all selfless and supportive. read more

When i first thought of taking this class I wasnt really sure what I was thinking. I dont have the balls to go up on a stage and try to make people laugh, I thought. I watched stand up comedy a lot, but that didnt mean I could do it. But oh did I want to. So I called the number on this website. I saw all the positive reviews and thought, this sounds to good to be true.. not one bad review, how is that possible? I left a message.. "um hi, i think i might want to take your class, call me back please" sounding sure of myself. A few days later Gerry called me back, he spent hours on the phone (over multiple calls) getting to know me, asking me questions. He cared what kind of person I was, why I thought I was funny and what my goals were. I had never talked to a teacher that way before. As long as I pay him, why should he care what I think or who I am? I dont know, but he really does. I might have even thought I was a special case, that I was so charming he just couldnt get off the phone with me. I wasnt, the first day of class I quickly found out that everyone got those calls. I could have been disappointed, but i wasnt. I was deeply touched. I went to so many schools growing up, private, public, home school you name it, and never met a teacher that was willing to sacrifice personal time to get to know their students that way. I said everyone in class got that treatment and that is true, but the class isnt overloaded. Usually it has the perfect number of 10 students. Everyone gets their chance to talk each class. No one is left out or overlooked (also something ive never experienced in the over 17 different education establishments Ive attended). One of the things we do the first day in class is we sign a contract that says many things including; you will attend class, you will do the work, you will show up for groups (He really cares im telling you!!) and that we wont form clicks within the class, we wont be negative, or exclude anyone. By doing so he creates a safe environment where you can fuck up, say the wrong things, fall on your ass.. until you dont anymore. And everyone does it together so you never feel that embarrassed. Gerry makes it clear that if he chose you for his class, its because you are already funny, he is just teaching you to control it (the funny) like any other instrument. All of us helped each other, pitched in ideas for jokes. We made each other better by utilizing so many different kinds of humor. The only thing we had in common was our love for comedy and eventually for each other. No matter our differences, we all made friends for life in this class By the time the 3 months are over you will have built up a set of polished jokes. Everyone gets there at their own pace, some people know what they want to say by month two. I didnt decide my jokes till the day of the show. I actually decided I wasnt going to do the show, that everyone was so good, and I couldnt possibly go up there with them. I was proud just to have helped write with some of their jokes, and that I learned the skills and tried... Yeeea right! My classmates wouldnt let me get away with any of that blubbering, they pushed me to go up on stage. AND Oh Man! People laughed, A LOT (imagine if i had been more prepared), and I floated off on a cloud higher then any drug I ever tried could take me. I couldnt believe it, I was standing up there, in the spotlight! Where I had admired so many courageous comics before me. Those laughs were for me. And let me tell you, laughter is the cure for everything.. our own laughter is good, but OTHER PEOPLES LAUGHTER will take all your pain, anxiety, insecurities etc.. AWAY. I felt on top of the world that night, and I continue to feel that way now months after. I have done more shows since then, and applying the techniques I learned in Gerrys class I can honestly say i have been fortunate to have never bombed. Never felt the agony of people not laughing. I NEVER got wrapped up in a story I couldnt finish... It can be very painful watching comics go up there and go on and on about some story that might have been funny, but they dont have the tools to tell it properly. I look at them like im cutting an onion, my eyes squint and i feel i could cry. I want to run over to all of them and just hand them Gerrys phone number. But not everyone can be in his class. I am a happier, more confident person because I took this class. People tell me im funny now more then they ever did before. Everyone who doubted me, had to eat their words, And man it feels So good! "Suck IT Im hilarious and Im gettin it!" As far as im concerned taking this class put my life on a greater path, helped me to become a better version of myself. Someone who is worth a damn, someone with talent, with a craft. I will be forever grateful for this class and the amazing man who teaches it. But dont take my word for it, you just got to try and see. read more

I took it and loved it. You can watch my first stand-up at www.youtube.com/carolinegirl81. Gerry is fun, funny, disciplined, attentive, generous, talent, smart, focused, fair...he gets results--the shows at the end are always good. Give him a call, and you'll know just from talking to him if there's a fit--also remember you get out of the class what you put in. The more you write, the more stand-up you see outside of class, and the more you try stuff outside of class in smaller groups, the better you will be. I also got better auditioning because of this class ("A Script??? I don't have to make it up?? Holy crap acting is super easy!!!") read more

This class was fantastic. You will work really hard, and it will be totally worth it. The final show is incredible, and you won't believe how amazing you and all of your fellow classmates are. You will crush it, because you, Gerry, and your classmates will work your butts off for 10 weeks. Gerry Katzman is incredibly supportive and pushes you to become a better comedian. You will be so glad that you took this class. Dive in and have fun! read more

If you watch stand up comedy and you have that itch to get up on stage, you have to take Gerry's class. You'll do your first set by the end of the class at an actual comedy club and its one of the greatest feelings you'll ever feel without drugs. I don't do drugs but from what I've heard, they're great. j/k, I've done drugs. Stand up comedy is better. Gerry is one of the wittiest people I know. He's hilarious. I recommend Gerry to everyone I know that is interested in taking his class. You'll meet great people while being coached by a great teacher who is patient and experienced. read more

It's hard to put into words what Gerry can do for your stand up, but I'm going to do my best. Before taking Gerry's class I really felt like I was floundering around on stage, doing open mics in a room full of comedians that didn't want to laugh at each other. Gerry helps create a supportive environment where you are challenged and encouraged to cultivate and expand existing material and new material. He wont let you off the hook and dares you to discuss topics that really matter to you. After taking Gerry's class, even when I think I had a "bad set," I feel like I at least have form and pride in my work. I feel like I have a way of working that is maintainable and I am able to get to a place where I like my jokes so I can really stand behind them and not bail on myself on stage. Beyond that, Gerry really cares about the people in his class. I have met so many wonderful comedians and taking class has been a great networking tool for booking shows. Also, you will leave the class with a solid taping of your "best of." Which is SO valuable and can open a lot of doors. Gerry's classes are addictive and they fill up quickly. This is definitely a class where you will do a lot of soul searching and personal growth. Whatever you do when the 10 weeks are up, you will leave the class with something invaluable. read more

What a transformative and life altering experience! if you've ever dreamed of stepping on stage and getting a crowd to laugh but always thought you couldn't do it - then this is the class for you. If you're the type of person who's always been told "Hey you should do comedy..." again and again by friends and coworkers -this is the class for you. If you've toiled and struggled through meaningless job drudgery all the while stifling dreams of being involved in the entertainment business ( as I did for years) then this is the class for you. Gerry Katzman is an amazing man to work with. He has the business savvy of a show business professional, the quick wit of a street performer, the slick moves of a slight of hand magician and an inherent knowledge of stand up comedy that comes from a life's work of making people laugh. All of these things make him a great teacher. But it is his huge heart, his unwavering patience and his deep understanding of how people learn that make him a phenomenal teacher. It's indeed all these qualities that make people return again and again to take his class. The amount of instruction, guidance and hands on practical experience you get for the cost of tuition amazes me. PLUS at the end of the ten week run you get the chance to perform your set at a real live big name comedy club! You can invite your buddies and coworkers to watch you tear it up on stage-the bragging rights ALONE are worth the cost of the class because your friends will be AMAZED by your performance! I highly recommend this class to anyone interested in pursuing comedy or anyone who has flirted with the possibility of getting up on stage and making people laugh! You will be astounded when you see what you can do! read more

Simply one of the smartest, kindest, coolest people I know, let alone the most amazing teacher in more than just comedy, but in how to be a good person in life. read more

It's been about a year and half since taking Gerry's class and in addition to having performed numerous times I've gotten to cohost my own show featuring people like Maria Bamford and Kyle Cease. How cool is that? read more

I LOVE GERRY"S CLASS! I never thought I could do a ten minute stand up set but Gerry showed me how...and I was funny! Remarkable. He is an amazing teacher who teaches with support, love, and kindness. I've recommended him to most everyone I know! Gerry's class was very freeing and such a great change of pace when compared to improv. Love me some GERRY! read more

One of the most rewarding, fulfilling experiences of my life. Gerry's class was what classes SHOULD all strive to be like in Los Angeles . The fun loving, supportive and extremely encouraging atmosphere made each class a delight. Gerry teaches you skills that will strengthen your foundation in the stand up world . He is always available to help and always available to listen . If you have been dreaming of taking the BEST stand up class in LA look no further ! It's right here ! read more

Taking Gerry's class is life changing. He is a skilled professional, that teaches others to become skilled professionals. If you want to know the secret to harnessing your natural abilities with actually being able to apply them, by all means take Gerry's class. I had no idea that taking a standup class would have such an impact on me personally and professionally. I have just finished his class and am literally amazed at the results. Our class had it's showcase, and I had friends coming up to me saying this was the best night of comedy they have ever seen. Trust, me, just take the class and watch your whole life change before your very eyes... read more

Gerry's class is incomparable. I had been wanting to get started in stand up, but felt overwhelmed when trying to understand the structure of a set. In 10 weeks Gerry teaches it all! He teaches you everything you need to know to be the best you can be - to everyone..he leaves no one behind! How much this man cares about every single one of his student's success is unbelievable. He calls "just to check in" - where else do you find someone so completely genuine - especially living in a city like Los Angeles. He creates such a unique and safe environment - the bond that is created in the class is completely supportive and inspiring as my classmates were the most brilliant and hilarious people I have ever met. I was inspired each and every class by them. And the showcase at the end of it all is incredible. Everyone of your classmates leaves you speechless, even though you have already seen their brilliance for the past weeks, something amazing happens to everyone their first night on stage that makes it the most night magical. I can't say enough good things about this class, best decision I've ever made! If you are thinking about it at all, JUST DO IT!! I promise you will not regret it! Plus, Gerry is a total fox! Meeeeow! read more

You literally could not ask for better teacher than Gerry. You will learn about yourself in ways you never thought possible and you will learn to do standup that provides important insights about life. Gerry is not just a great teacher, he's like kind of an inspiration as a person. He also amazingly brings the class together in a way that is very special and creates a safe place for you to do standup. I knew 3 people who had taken Gerry's class before and I thought their work spoke for itself so he must be a great teacher, so if I was going to ever take a stand up class it would have to be his and I'm really glad it was. Gerry is a comedy artist and he does everything he can to pass his skill along and create new little artists and he does it beautifully. Could not be more pleased. So grateful I took this class and got to learn from the amazing inspiration that is Gerry Katzman. read more

I just finished my first standup class with Gerry and can say with confidence it's the best money I've ever spent. Gerry is so gifted at helping you generate your best material while simultaneously fostering the sort of supportive community that can be so hard to find in LA comedy circles. He's so engaged and enthusiastic -- you really feel like the class is this living, breathing thing and not just a weekly commitment you're tethered to. I am so confident in my abilities after taking this class. It gave me the structure to produce fresh, new material week after week, and to share it in a safe space where everyone is invested in making your set as good as it can be. I am so thankful for the creative sanctuary that is Gerry's class! read more