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

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

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

He made me work. He didn't let me slack. I thought I was funny but Gerry helped me be HILARIOUS. Take his class if you are serious about stand up. It was worth every penny and he has not only been great at helping me organize my material and find my confidence but also in being a true friend as well as a terrific teacher. I cannot recommend him enough. read more

Gerry is amazing. I can start to list the multitude of great things you get from his class - material, feedback, structure, connections, confidence, awareness - but it's an all encompassing experience. I learned so much that not only applies to stand-up but to my other writing, and even to my perspective on things. You'll meet great people too, and become quick friends. read more

If you are serious about getting into stand up comedy, I would heavily recommend taking Gerry's class. I gained a ton of comedy knowledge and writing experience, but most importantly, I gained the confidence that is required to perform high caliber stand up. In order to get to the level my classmates and I are at after taking the 11 week class, I would imagine it would take 3 years of doing open mic nights and what not. I thought the price was a freaking steal, especially considering the amount of blood, sweat, tears and time Gerry puts into the class. He is a funny, good-hearted person that fights to make his students do well. Honestly I learned more in this class than I did in any class I took in college. He is tied for "my favorite teacher ever" with the dude who gave me guitar lessons in middle school. That guy was Jim Wood, a Vietnam vet with short stubby fingers who played the blues. He taught me all the theory I needed to know but always stressed that the theory existed so I could use it to express myself as an individual. That is exactly what Gerry did in our comedy class... he gave us all the knowledge we need to go out and be ourselves confidently. I will be out doing more shows in LA vey very soon. My classmates and people that took the class ahead of me are now all people I can network with to do writing sessions, shows, etc.... but also great new friends. All in all, I highly recommend this class! 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

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

It is hard to put into words, especially in a Yelp Review how much a class can change your life. I have always been drawn to comedy, but never quite could figure out how to put skills into practice. I have never been a comedy writer, nor been part of the improv scene, but damn, I kill at parties! Enter Gerry Katzman.... Gerry cultivates a group of people who are giving and supportive, which can be difficult to find in LA. Not only that, but Gerry, himself, is the most giving and supportive of them all. There are no politics here. Gerry cares deeply about each and every one of his students. Taking Gerry's class is life-changing because you realize your own potential in such a deep way. A lot of other things become much less challenging when you realize you can stand up in front of people with just a microphone and make them laugh. Why this class is special is because it is not about just becoming a stand up comedian. Gerry is all about helping you find your own comedy. There is nothing cookie cutter here. And because of how Gerry tailors the class to each and every one of his students, no one gets left behind for not "getting it." At our Showcase, I was so proud to be a part of a group of people who each had their own truth to tell and their own quirks to bring the stage. His alumni are equally amazing - they show up to cheer you on every step of the way! Literally, this has been one of the best experiences of my life! read more

One of the greatest, most defining experiences of my life. Gerry is a mastermind teacher. By the end, you will have all the tools to succeed at stand up. If you want to do standup and really rock it from day one: Take this class. You'd be a fool not to. read more

Gerry's standup class was just incredible. From the get-go, Gerry creates a supportive, safe, fun environment in which I was allowed to be creative and take risks - and find my comedic voice. He teaches you straightforward stand up techniques and provides an easy to understand framework to write funny, engaging material. His process allows you to explore topics which are most real and personal to you and which ultimately provide the best sources of comedic material. Gerry is a kind, caring teacher who is invested in the success of every one of his students. To see each person in class, regardless of their background, blossom with their stand up was amazing. Thank you, Gerry, for making the whole experience in and around your class so fun and rewarding! read more

I don't know where to begin because there are so many amazing things to say about this class and Gerry! This was my very first time doing stand up and I put it off for so long because I never knew how to go about it. If you can relate, this class will give you all the tools you need to write a joke and take it all the way to your final performance. You also develop an ear for stand up comedy which is extremely useful for continuing after your class ends! Gerry has a special way of making the class feel comfortable with each other. It feels like camp! Everyone supports one another and you not only get an amazing set at the end, but endless support from everyone who went through the process with you. Gerry really knows what he's talking about in class and all his tips are so genius and helpful. Take this class if you want to do stand up! Save literally years of work by learning the tools needed to write and perform! read more

I don't even know where to start about Gerry's Class. It was one of the most unbelievable things I have ever done. This was not just about comedy, this was a soul searching, confidence boosting, lifelong friend making experience. You learn so much about comedy and yourself, as well as get to know some amazing people that will most likely be lifelong friends. Gerry helps you find who you are and what really makes you funny in such an organic way. My showcase for this class was by far the best night of my life and I will be forever be indebted to Gerry! The network of people you meet especially your classmates and alumni is amazing, it is like a family. Gerry builds your skills and your confidence. I highly recommend this class, it is sure to change your life! Just make sure you are ready to be a team player and give your all for the sake of the group! read more

I can't really review this class without taking about Gerry first. Gerry is a Unique soul that spreads light on people lives. Just like he did mine. I was very new to LA when I got so lucky to be part in his class. I say Lucky because as I got to know Gerry I felt that every single part of this class, is filled with so much thought, love and endless devotion. Even before the class, he chooses his students to make sure the creative dynamic and energy will be at best to allow the highest experience and results and it was!! I am so grateful to have been on it. A teacher or instructor are not even close to reflect the role Gerry had in my life during these 10 weeks, or the mind-blowing effects it had on the way I see the world and myself, my creative skills and my future. As mentioned I was new to La, I didn't know anyone and I came because I had this dream to try and pursue comedy. I don't really know why, or why now, all I know is that I kept thinking about it and that thought wouldn't let go. I live my life like any other person, done everything by the book, went to college, had a good career everything was amazing, but again, something was missing. These strange images of me telling jokes on a stage filled my days and made my heart smile. With time these thoughts grew stronger and stronger so I said fuck it and made a decision to try. I didn't care if I succeeded or not, I just felt I owe it to my self just try. You live once, and time goes by really fast. Sometimes your inner self asks you to do stuff and you ignore it or push it aside because you're scared or overthinking things or whatever it is that keeps you from going for it, but I can honestly say that the best decision I ever made is to just DO IT and I thank my lucky stars or God or whatever it was that sent Gerry to my world. From the first Skype call I had with Gerry (from Israel!) I could feel the amounts of energy and care that he invested in me (a person he doesn't even know calling from the other side of the world). I should mention that in no point did Gerry convince me to come, that decision was mine alone. I remember the first class, I was only 3 days in LA and I didn't know what to expect. I was shy and probably somewhat weird. I ended the last class this whole new person. I told jokes on a stage. I made people laugh and my hart smiled, just like I imagined. Im sorry, it was so much better then I imagined. It was the best feeling in the world! I owe it all to Gerry. He would spend so much time with me, and on the phone, the endless patience and love he gave me are truly remarkable as at times I would even smack myself !! i don't know how he did it !! He TRULY CARES about you Listens to, DEVOTED to Help you and INSPIRE you be the best you can be (and RELAX TOO). You finish this class in an amazing showcase and then become part of Gerry's comic family, filled with hilarious and talented comedians who are all so supportive and awesome to each other. I am writing this review almost 6 months after taking the class, because I felt my first review (still 5 star) didn't really reflect how I felt. Gerry, a million thank yous or 5 star reviews won't be enough to reflect how I feel. And yet, I want to thank you. You were like a giant magical rainbow in my cloud. And I will never forget all the things you've done for me. So if you are reading this, always wanted to explore your comic side or a take your comic skills to the next level (and willing to work hard for it) - do everything in your power to take this professional class. you will never regret it. read more

This class is the real deal! Gerry truly cares about comedy and the success of his students. He's a very funny person and devoted teacher who gives an inspiring amount of care and attention to each student. He wants you to be good at joke writing and he wants you to have success as a stand up and you really feel that dedication and mindset in the way that he teaches. Class is 10 weeks long, give or take for holidays, etc. You meet once a week as a full class and once a week in smaller writing groups. You'll be doing a lot of writing and performing for each other and it was a great way to get a lot better very quickly. Gerry teaches joke writing from a straight-forward philosophy based on your own personal experiences and grounded in telling the truth. This class is a great way into the comedy scene and will make you a better stand-up, writer, and performer. Highly recommend. read more

Gerry Katzman is not only an incredible teacher but also an alchemist! From my first contact with Gerry through the experience of taking his class into performing my first show, this has been an amazing journey. Gerry has literally changed my life, even if I were never to do standup again. Gerry creates a space to learn in that is supportive, nurturing and safe. The small class is populated with people who become your friends and support system, who you care about and wish for their success as much as for your own. It is wonderful how Gerry creates this in his class. And that's separate from how amazing he is as a teacher - you come out of the class having learnt how to write comedy, how to perform it, how to feel confident on stage, how to pitch ideas to other people and how to work as a team. And all in ten weeks! I cannot recommend Gerry Katzman highly enough. read more

Life is ultimately about pushing ourselves and taking risks. I have wanted to pursue stand up comedy for many years and have never had the guts to do it. Since moving to LA two years ago, every time I had a random conversation with someone about this the name Gerry Katzman always came up. Well, I am happy to say I finally took a risk and enrolled in his class in January. I am so glad I did. Gerry is a wealth of information, insight, kindness and someone who really cares. He creates an environment where people can thrive and support each other. I highly recomend this class as it is truly life changing and one of the best risks I have ever taken. read more

I don't even know where to start. This class will truly change your life. Not only is Gerry an amazing teacher, but probably one of the most wonderful, kind, encouraging, and selfless people you will ever meet in your life. I'm leaving this class feeling confident and prepared with all the tools I need to successfully do stand-up. I actually can't believe that after only 10 weeks I was able to get up and do a killer set with ease and confidence. I'm genuinely at a loss for things to say so I'll leave it with with just an enormous thank you to Gerry for one of the best experiences of my life. read more

I'm not the hyperbolic type but I'm pretty sure that there's no one in the world that could possibly prepare you to get on stage and be funny better than Gerry. And if you're thinking about going at it alone, save yourself the pain and take the time to learn at least the basics in a creative, loving and safe environment. read more

How much time do you have? Gerry is the best teacher, mentor and all around quality human you're likely to find anywhere. Rarely does someone have so much good in them and actually want to share it to help others. He spends the time to help you understand yourself, to help you connect with an audience and to make sure you're having fun in the process. Gerry makes sure you're always surrounded by good people and that the room is always supportive and friendly. I've taken his class twice and it's always so fun to see everyone have breakthroughs with their writing and performing. He knows how to pull the best work out of you on the right topics, at the right time. Gerry's alumni network is equally strong and supportive too. You're always bumping into alums at shows all over town. Take Gerry's class! read more

Gerry creates the environment for the writing AND the performing to happen. His class became an outlet for me: a place to write, to take chances, and to garner the connections and support from a network of rising comedians. Your class becomes a family. It requires trust and hard work, all along being championed tirelessly by Gerry and guided by his expertise as a performer and writer, and within 10 weeks you'll have a solid, funny, and authentic act in which to build from. What an exhilarating leap of faith and fun it has been. Gerry helps tap the writer and the comedian that exists inside you, and does it with such a strong and supportive work ethic you come out of his class ready to live the comedian's life. read more

When you hear stories from actors/comedians who talk about that moment when everything changed for them - it usually comes down to one person. For me, that person is Gerry Katzman. I am indebted to him. He facilitated my growth, not only as a performer, but also as a person and I have no doubt that I would've left this town long ago were it not for his guidance. Taking Gerry's class was one of the best decisions I've ever made. He helped me overcome my stage fright and inspired a confidence in me that I never thought was possible. The brilliance of his comedic mind is matched only by his warmth and commitment as a teacher. He will not give up on you. You will learn to write jokes and take chances you never dreamed of taking. I consider him not just a mentor but also a good friend. Thank you for everything Gerry! read more

Gerry's classroom is a petri dish where failure is an impossibility. Plain and simple.

I had such a good time in this class. Gerry has a way of establishing a class culture that's really conducive to generating quality stand up comedy. Because the class was so warm and trusting and accepting, I was able to explore my own shortcomings and psychological flaws in comedy form without feeling hated or judged. I can't wait to take the advanced class! read more

Gerry takes the time to make you the best you can be. He's not in it for the money- he really cares that you make it to your true potential. The final performance was so much fun! read more

What can I say about Gerry that I wouldn't say about Obama? He's sensual, he's funny, he protects me, and I want to hear everything he has to say. Gerry's class is above and beyond any educational experience I've had in any field, for a few very specific reasons. For one - the accessibility. Gerry will answer your calls and emails, he will spend time with you on the phone, clarifying not only general concepts, but also developing your specific work. This is in addition to class where EVERYONE gets time focused on them in every session. Secondly - the positivity. Constructive criticism is a part of the learning experience and is necessary to get better. In this class, it's delivered in such a way, by both Gerry and your classmates, that you know that it comes from a good place of wanting to help you improve. That's why I especially recommend it for sensitive artist types who have little baby feelings (me). Third, the sense of community. After one class with Gerry, I know no less than twenty people in the LA comedy scene that I didn't know before. I already have people I barely speak to asking me for introductions to these power players! (no). If you want to do standup comedy, you want to be good, and you want to do the hard work, this is the best possible place to start, hands down. You will leave with a set you can have confidence in, a strong network, new friends, a feeling of accomplishment, a valuable mentor in Gerry, and something that writers/comedians/performers often find themselves in a drastic drought of quite frequently- hope. Gerry and his class give you the tools to do whatever you want with your strong new skillz. For anyone who is willing to put in the time, and wants to be a part of something great, I can't recommend it enough. read more

This review is looooooong over due. Gerry totally rocks this class with fresh ideas. While it is fun, its not a yuk fest. Its hard work. Its about crafting a set, knowing the guts of a joke, and creating an act out that will slay the audience. read more

Gerry Katzman has a rare gift: The ability to weave together a tight-knit community of creative people who will work their asses off to get what they want, AND are 100% supportive of each other along the way. That's right, in LA, in entertainment, you don't have to go it alone. Gerry can't make you funny--no one can--but he will show you how to take your everyday funny and translate that to the stage...something that will take you a long time to do on your own. Three of my classmates spent 3 - 4 years at open mics--and all said they made more progress in 10 weeks than in all the years prior. More than technique, Gerry has the awareness and sensitivity to know when to push and when to pick you back up. You have to dig deep, bare all that baggage and then face a roomful of strangers and make them laugh. And for a non-performer like me, it was terrifying...and liberating and ultimately a life changing experience. That doesn't happen without the guidance of someone who really, truly cares about you and your future success. If you are still wondering if this class is right for you, go to a showcase. You will be blown away by how great everyone is. Better yet, bury your fear and call Gerry. It will be a remarkable experience. read more

If you were a parent, and your​ kid just went off to pursue their Hollywood dreams, this class would be not only the best gift you could give them​ but also the best money you could spend on helping them succeed. ​Seriously this class is freaking fantastic​. Gerry is the most selfless teacher I've encountered. Stop reading yelp reviews and sign up. read more

This is hands down the only way you should dip your toes into the stand up world. Gerry is beyond amazing and you walk away not only with an airtight stand up set but a community of comics who genuinely care and will encourage you along the way and beyond. read more

Gerry Katzman is the best in his field. He goes above and beyond. He gets to know each student and really focuses on the individual while at the same time creating a supportive group environment. This is very evident at his showcasesHilarity, love and support abounds. Gerry really knows comedy. His showcases are always great! read more

I just finished class with Gerry and I am on a comedy high! I was always too afraid to do standup in the past, but after these past weeks with Gerry I feel confident in calling myself a comedian! Gerry expertly guides you through the process of constructing a joke and performance techniques with so much love and wisdom. My previous negative perception of the comedy world has been completely shattered because Gerry has shown me a side of comedy that celebrates courage, reflection, encouragement, support and so much love! At the end of class, you get to perform in a thrilling showcase with your fellow classmates at a real comedy club. At the show, I felt proud and confident in my new skills and was also beaming with pride for my fellow classmates. I am walking away as part of a family, with opportunities to perform and many new friends. This class is no joke (no pun intended). It is hard work! Every week you have to show up ready to put yourself out there and ready to support your classmates! I am a changed person and I would recommend this class to anyone ready expand oneself as a human being and ready to realize their dream of comedy! Thank you so much Gerry!!!! read more

Standup Comedy Class - Look how happy and bonded we are at the showcase!! - Performing Arts Near Me

I can't recommend Gerry's class enough. I had been curious about the dark arts my whole life, and am so grateful that my intro to standup was through an approachable, functional method. This class was some of the best money I've ever spent : it sharpened the way I think, vastly improved my writing, and (most importantly) served as a catalyst for me to learn some vital truths about myself. I don't care who you are or what your goals are - if you've ever been told you should try stand-up, study with Gerry. Such good things will happen for you. read more

It's been a year since I first took Gerry's class and I just wanted to check back in to say I have been having an amazing time performing regularly at first rate comedy clubs and experiencing a level of exhilaration that I had honestly not previously imagined. Gerry's class has also helped me in my career as a film producer - giving me new opportunities to meet incredible people in the business that I would not have gained access to without my experience as a stand up. I have also returned for the advanced/alumni class where you get the opportunity to work with established professionals in the field and draw on their experience, support and comedic guidance to hone and develop your craft. Gerry's built a thriving network of alumni who produce shows all over town and who go out of their way to support other alumni. I cannot recommend this class highly enough. In the simplest terms: it changed my life. read more

It's life changing. Take his class. You will look for, find, translate, and then express...The funny.

As an avid standup fanatic and lover of comedy, I've metaphorically dipped my toe into the stand up pool a couple of times and found it to be hard, depressing but yet still, when done well, magical. Taking Gerry's class was the most loving, self actualizing, transformative and truly wonderful journeys I have taken. I REALLY learned a lot about people, myself, art and mostly stand up. It wasn't easy but I really made steps forward in ways that surprised me. In our showcase I was taken back emotionally by the incredible response of an amazing audience. You can't get a better boost into the comedy world than this class. I am filled with knowledge (that takes years to learn just being out there) both into the art form and the business, excitement, a physical tape of my set to help me going forward, new smart, classy friends and a fulfilling experience as good as the best things you can think of (sex, gooey chocolate chip cookies, winning in sports). I'm proud of myself and that's the best feeling in the world. Gerry is a comedic genius and knows how to teach the science of comedy. He's also a lovely human. You should take this class if you want to do stand up. read more

I started this class with not a clue how to write or perform Stand Up Comedy. I was terrified but something in me told me I could do it. Gerry is hilarious, kind, and creates an incredibly supportive and inspired class environment. By the end, I was doing it. You can too. Take the class! read more

If you are serious about doing stand up comedy, then this is the only class to take! Gerry is more than an instructor, he is a mentor and a comedic genius. I highly recommend this class!! read more

If you've always thought about doing standup comedy, but were afraid to try --this is the class for you! Gerry will teach you how to harness your inner comedy and mold it into a hilarious routine. By the end of the course, you WILL be doing standup comedy. And, you'll be doing it well. Gerry not only teaches you what you need to know, he does it with a very hands on approach. I hit a serious block and wanted to throw in the towel halfway through the class. But, Gerry wouldn't let me give up. I'm glad he believed in me even when I didn't. Take this class! You can do it! read more