{"id":155,"date":"2025-03-10T00:40:07","date_gmt":"2025-03-10T04:40:07","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/thecomedybook.com\/?page_id=155"},"modified":"2025-03-11T00:58:47","modified_gmt":"2025-03-11T04:58:47","slug":"reviews","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/thecomedybook.com\/index.php\/comedy-workshops\/reviews\/","title":{"rendered":"Reviews"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"pl-155\"  class=\"panel-layout\" ><div id=\"pg-155-0\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-155-0-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-155-0-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-c67d20f9f743-155\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/thecomedybook.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Improv-1.jpg\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1080\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thecomedybook.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Improv-1.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/thecomedybook.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Improv-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/thecomedybook.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Improv-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thecomedybook.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Improv-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/thecomedybook.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Improv-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\" title=\"The Cleveland Improv - October 2022\" alt=\"\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-155-1\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-155-1-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-155-1-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_text panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"1\" >\t\t\t<div class=\"textwidget\"><p>&#8220;Hey Dave &#8211; I took your class around 10 years ago at The Cleveland Improv. I had terrible stage fright and needed a push to get on stage. Since then I&#8217;ve done standup on <em>Late Night with Seth Meyers<\/em>, Comedy Central, and my album, <em>Desiree<\/em>, came out today and is currently #1 on the iTunes comedy charts. So thank you man, I appreciate it. &#8211; Brendan Eyre<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>If you or anyone you know is interested in stand up comedy whether it be as a career or just something to check off your bucket list I recommend Comedy Workshops with Dave Schwensen. For me, trying to do stand up felt lonely and it\u2019s easy to get down on yourself when things don\u2019t seem to go your way but the workshop brought together different comics from different backgrounds who were all there for different reasons. We shared thoughts and ideas and motivated each other and that was a big boost for me. I\u2019ll be taking the workshop again in the future. &#8211; Dominique Peterman \/ Ratchet Pete, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Thank you so much for sharing your expertise, insight, wit and encouragement over the past several weeks in The Comedy Workshop. I am grateful that you have created a program where both new and (semi-)experienced comics can develop as performers and writers in the most creatively supportive environment imaginable. On the first day of the workshop, you asked each of us: &#8220;Who are you?&#8221; and you illustrated the absolute importance of conveying our identity as a performer, comic and person to the audience. I&#8217;ve spent so many hours since then generating new material as well as reviewing older material, all the while keeping that simple and profound question in mind. There is no doubt that participating in your workshop made me a better stand-up.&#8221; &#8211; Katie Meiners, Chicago<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>I really enjoyed your workshop. Your coaching definitely gave me the confidence to get on that stage. I look forward to another crack at the apple \ud83d\ude42 &#8211; Gabrielle Greco, Tampa<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I&#8217;ve attended many classes, conferences and workshops throughout my life and this was one of the most AMAZING classes I&#8217;ve ever taken! If you never thought you could do this (but you&#8217;ve wanted to try) OR you&#8217;ve already been going to open mics for a while, this is the class for you. You learn how to be funny\/silly\/amusing\/entertaining AND how the business of comedy works. Thanks, Dave. You are an excellent teacher!&#8221; &#8211; Kitty Brandal, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I just wanted to reach out directly to thank you for what you do. These workshops are a little polarizing in the comedy world. I did a bit of research beforehand and some comics will say workshops are good, but a lot will say it&#8217;s a waste of money, that you should dump that money in your gas tank and go to open mics. I&#8217;m not sure those people are really looking at the big picture. I&#8217;m sure you know the open mic atmosphere. Sometimes people just aren&#8217;t listening, or if it&#8217;s a room full of comics working out, you just can&#8217;t get a sense of what&#8217;s going to land. You provide a genuine audience and that is invaluable for someone starting out. Truly, thanks again.&#8221; &#8211; Mike Thomas, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Thanks to Dave S. for everything. Exceeded my expectations and accomplished what I wanted: which was to feel more comfortable on a stage and to develop a coherent set!\u00a0I was impressed to see everyone on the stage and how well EVERYONE did.&#8221; &#8211; Ben Bell, Tampa<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Highly recommend taking this course! I met some of the coolest people and learned more about stand up comedy than I ever have before. <a class=\"x1i10hfl xjbqb8w x6umtig x1b1mbwd xaqea5y xav7gou x9f619 x1ypdohk xt0psk2 xe8uvvx xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r xexx8yu x4uap5 x18d9i69 xkhd6sd x16tdsg8 x1hl2dhg xggy1nq x1a2a7pz xt0b8zv x1qq9wsj xo1l8bm\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/DaveSchwensen?__cft__[0]=AZXE9Hk0Nre8euBDhQ87K0t1uXXhy58s0SI36SRpeN5uj0SkITW983xzRHBVAItCwFs1fjJ20JCUkQuThLRC5tMQHGFIrSn2A-kub6Fm3DQBBQTIhKv_BqLuApL5Yly_jl7pBrEuDdKBfjnUc-yj_mJCUgqY2-eW6I8TRsOm1MAi6bGqeBu9D0dFb_ccH0aSXmE&amp;__tn__=-]K-R\"><span class=\"xt0psk2\">Dave Schwensen<\/span><\/a> is a great coach!&#8221; &#8211; Emmy Taylor, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;One of the best things I did for self-care in 2021 was to register for Dave Schwensen&#8217;s comedy class at the Improv. I had lost two family members and struggled with grief and keeping up with graduate school and my graduate assistantship. Dave&#8217;s course helped me lighten up and see the humor that eluded me.&#8221; &#8211; Susan Russell, Cleveland &amp; Online Workshops<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;BIG THANKS TO DAVE. Your knowledge and expertise during this process was second to none.&#8221; &#8211; Reggie Maxwell, Tampa<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Whether you&#8217;re looking at stand-up as a career, or just want to check it off your bucket list, Dave&#8217;s course is for you. He&#8217;s always encouraging, but doesn&#8217;t pull any punches. In three weeks you&#8217;ll learn what you need to do to get up on stage and succeed.&#8221; &#8211; Fred D&#8217;Ambrosi, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I want to let you know how much I appreciate your guidance and support along the way. I learned so much from your workshop and I would recommend it to anyone who would like to try stand up comedy. I love the setting of the three weeks, we get to say our jokes and watch the response from a group of people who are very good with humor. I personally gained a lot of insights from the workshop and some of them fundamentally changed my perspective of looking at things. Thank you again and good luck with everything.&#8221; &#8211; Molly Chen, Chicago<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I had an awesome time, thank you for making my dream come true in the Comedy World. YOU ARE A DREAM MAKER!!&#8221; &#8211; Gino Latino, Chicago<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<div dir=\"auto\">&#8220;Thank you so much for your workshop and the opportunity to be on stage at such a wonderful venue.\u00a0Above all else, thank you for providing the opportunity for Kaitlin (daughter) and I to get closer. As your children grow up (and away) it becomes increasingly difficult to find ways to spend time together. The time she and I spent working on our sets is time I\u2019ll cherish forever.\u00a0Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I am forever in your debt.&#8221; &#8211; W. Scott Wene, Cleveland<\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\"><\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">&#8212;-<\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">\n<p>&#8220;Thanks for such a great class and for fostering an open, safe environment for us to play. Cheers!&#8221; &#8211; Rachael Alexander, Tampa<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">&#8212;-<\/div>\n<p>&#8221; What a terrific show and workshop! I had so much fun and met some really nice, funny people too. I received a tremendous amout of value from it. Each class, each workshop I absorbed something new and that means growth and progress. I especially appreciate the honest feedback and will be thinking about (and working on) all the things discussed. You&#8217;re the Micky to my Rocky Balboa!&#8221; &#8211; Denise Medina, Chicago<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8221; Thanks again for your workshop. What an awesome orientation. Super super program.&#8221; &#8211; Chad Tate, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Thank you! What a magical evening. You do an absolutely wonderful job preparing us.&#8221; &#8211; Charlotte Guggenheim, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Thank you again for that workshop! I did it!! I got on a stage tonight, for the pure joy of making people laugh! It was exhilarating!! I didn&#8217;t think I was going to be able to do it, but the workshop got me there. I listened, took notes, rehearsed&#8230; but if it wasn&#8217;t for you there is no way I could&#8217;ve done it on my own. My most important thing was your &#8216;look, just have fun&#8217; attitude and your positivity. Glad I was a part of this!&#8221; &#8211; David A. Hair, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Thank you Dave! Last night was a top 10 experience in my life! I am so thankful I was able to be part of it and can&#8217;t wait to grow from here and take the workshop again.&#8221; &#8211; Kim Norman, Chicago<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I really can&#8217;t thank you enough for all your support, guidance and encouragement. The workshop was exactly what I needed to give me direction and the experience of the showcase was just invaluable! Thanks again! &#8211; Kelly Moore, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Thank you for giving me the opportunity to make people laugh! It was empowering. It was so funny being on stage and folks actually laughed at my jokes! So, thank you again!&#8221; &#8211; Kathy Bonacci, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I had a lot of fun, now I just have to find more opportunities to get on stage because I&#8217;m hooked and apparently people actually think I&#8217;m funny. Confidence was THE key and I found it on that stage Wednesday night! Keep&#8217;em laughing &#8211; Chris Williams, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I just have to say thank you for this outstanding workshop! I have never attempted anything like this, and just had to tell you that you really make people like myself feel so welcomed and encouraged!&#8221; &#8211; Mary Beth, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Thank you so much. Performing at The Improv last night was a &#8216;Dream Come True.&#8217; I can&#8217;t imagine a better experience.&#8221; &#8211; Karman, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Dave is a great guy and knows A LOT about the comedy business. If you&#8217;ve thought about trying standup, but feel apprehensive, this is a workshop for you!&#8221; &#8211; Liz Blanc, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Dave is a great teacher with the knowledge that you need. Highly and I mean highly recommend!&#8221; &#8211; Ed Duncan, Chicago<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I hadn\u2019t been on stage in over 8 years before tonight. Thanks so Much for all your help. Without you I wouldn\u2019t have written any of this stuff. Absolutely loved the experience!&#8221; &#8211; Kevin Krsek, Chicago<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;What an awesome experience and wonderful night. I learned a lot. Thank you!&#8221; &#8211; Mike Fountain, Chicago<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I would love to work with you again. Taking your workshop to push me out of my comfort zone was the best decision. I look forward to another workshop together!&#8221; &#8211; Malyn Collins, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;It was a pleasure to meet you and learn about the comedy and entertainment world from your unique perspective. You provided us with a professional and fun-loving place to search our souls and try to find our &#8220;inner funny.&#8221; Plus, I finally cleaned out my drawers of writings and rantings from days past! Thanks again, it was a wonderful experience and much appreciated.&#8221; &#8211; Beth Lockshin, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I would like to thank you for this opportunity. I am very happy that the show turned out to the success it became. All my friends had a great time and you know what? You were right because they all asked, &#8216;When are you going to do it again George?&#8217; I cannot thank you enough and of course sign me up for your next class.&#8221; &#8211; George Csakvary, Chicago<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I just want to say it was a pleasure taking your class and I am really enjoying your book &#8216;How To Be A Working Comic.&#8217; As you know, starting out in stand-up comedy is a long hard road. I really appreciate the platform you offered me and the experience has really given me what I needed to advance myself to a whole new level. I&#8217;m forever grateful for the spark it has ignited in me to succeed. Thanks Dave. Keep up keeping the dream alive!&#8221; &#8211; Derek Heath, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I want to thank you for the great experience with the class and the show. It was a very fun time and I can already see it is going to be very beneficial for me.&#8221; &#8211; Tom Brice, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Finally heard back. I&#8217;m hosting at The Improv in December! Thanks again! &#8211; Jack Baker, Chicago<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I got a chance to audition at The Improv and passed. I&#8217;ll be doing a weekend there as MC in February. Just wanted to say thanks for your guidance.&#8221; &#8211; Kevin Wood, Chicago<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Thank you for a great show I had a blast! Appreciate all your kind words.&#8221; &#8211; Jeremy Busch, Chicago<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I just want to thank you again for all of your help. Ever since I posted the video on Facebook, it has blown up. Lots of people have shared it and I&#8217;m getting messages from people I don&#8217;t even know. This is so encouraging to me. Now I really want to pursue this and see how far I can go.&#8221; &#8211; Thomas Jones, West Virginia<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Still on a high from last night&#8217;s performance! Your counsel was invaluable and I really enjoyed interacting with the others. Can&#8217;t wait to do it again!&#8221; &#8211; Steve Garfunkel, Cleveland (via Facebook)<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Really, really enjoyed this experience. I&#8217;ve already highly recommended the workshop to a bunch of folks. Thanks for everything!&#8217; &#8211; Mike Montgomery, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I wanted to thank you again for putting on a hell of a show last night and for taking the time to come here and teach! I&#8217;m glad I signed up for the class.&#8221; &#8211; Josh Stonesthrow, Chicago<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI can\u2019t say enough about the comedy workshop that Dave Schwensen puts together at The (Cleveland) Improv. I myself have always dreamed of making people laugh and performing in front of crowds, but could never find the right \u2018jumping off point.\u2019 That is exactly what this workshop offers. Dave and his vast experiences in \u2018the biz\u2019 covers everything from writing comedy, to stage presence, to getting noticed in a difficult industry, all while keeping a supportive and fun environment. Whether you are just looking to explore something new, or serious about getting started in the business of entertainment, Dave\u2019s comedy workshop is an invaluable experience that shouldn\u2019t be passed up.\u201d \u2013 Cody Cooper, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI just want to say that I\u2019ve rounded my one year anniversary of performing comedy and I wanted to thank you again. If it wasn\u2019t for your workshop, I really don\u2019t think I would have had the guts or the wherewithal to know where \/ how to start. Doing stand-up has definitely been one of the best things I\u2019ve ever tried so thank you for giving me (and really, most Cleveland comedians) a place to start. Congratulations on another workshop graduation! I\u2019m sure they\u2019ll do great!\u201d \u2013 Kali Fencl, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Thanks again for an amazing experience. I appreciate the hell out of you!&#8221; &#8211; Robert &#8220;Bean&#8221; Benjamin, Tampa<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Awesome!! I had so much fun and got so much positive feedback, it was great. I really enjoyed your class.&#8221; &#8211; Steve Barnes, Cleveland (received the workshop as a surprise Christmas gift!)<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;One of the greatest experiences of my life!!!&#8221; &#8211; Cyndi Rice, Cleveland (via Facebook!)<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI love seeing \u2018sold-out\u2019 on your classes. You do such a great job \u2013 I loved the class I took. And it has helped me so much in my speaking opportunities at Whole Foods, which is actually a cool extra of your class. Besides doing stand-up, it helps anyone who does any kind of speaking in their jobs. Humor is EVERYTHING. I always keep\u2019em laughing \u2013 which keeps\u2019em interested. Thanks for everything Dave! \u2013 Ellen Darby, Healthy Eating Specialist with Whole Foods<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI just want to thank you again for everything. I am still coming off the excitement from last night\u2019s show at The (Cleveland) Improv! I seriously could not pay attention at work today, instead I just started writing new material. This has been a truly awesome experience and I can\u2019t thank you enough for setting this up and coaching us all the way.\u201d \u2013 Kevin Hill, Mechanical Engineer<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cDave\u2026 without this class I would\u2019ve been sitting on my couch and saying \u201cwhat if?\u201d So thanks for giving me and others the outlet to step into the limelight. No BS\u2026 it has been a great experience. Thanks.\u201d \u2013 Steve Nelson, Sales<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI feel like a friggin\u2019 star! You built up my confidence and helped me hone my skills and polish my act. You rock! I love you!\u201d \u2013 Sharon Lomurno<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;It was one of the best experiences I&#8217;ve had besides women wearing yoga pants! Thanks much, will recommend you to friends. You gave us confidence all through the classes. Wow!!!! &#8211; Jay Womack, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThank you so much! Your workshop was awesome. You truly have a wealth of information and experience. We were talking about how cool it is that you\u2019re in Cleveland and we have access to a coach of your caliber. All in all I had so much fun and I thought everyone did great!\u201d \u2013 Will Kesling, Owner \/ Art Director for Pixel Thought Foundry<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Thanks Dave for everything you provided during the workshop. I appreciate the opportunity to perform at The Improv and will be prepared!&#8221; &#8211; Jay Garcia, Chicago<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>\u201cJust want to express my appreciation to you for your fine workshop. It was a blast and I\u2019ve already recommended it to two friends. Good luck in the future and thanks for allowing me the opportunity to add a line item to my bucket list. You, keep laughing!\u201d \u2013 Mark Presser<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Thanks again. It was an awesome experience! \ud83d\ude42 May you always feel good and make magic.&#8221; &#8211; Lena Anani, Chicago<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWhat a great time we had! Best birthday gift in a long time.\u201d \u2013 Jeff Weaver, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI just want to say thank you so very much for the wonderful opportunity our (13-year old) son had at the workshop. I was so proud of all the other rising stars as well. He really enjoyed himself. To be very honest I was leery of leaving my son alone with a bunch of adult strangers. It was obvious you took him under your wing and kept him safe. We are grateful for your professionalism Dave. We knew how much comedy means to him and boy did it boost his ego!!! To get up in front of all those people at that age \u2013 I know I would have had a meltdown!! Thank you once again, you are truly a class act.\u201d \u2013 Best Regards, The Kniola Family<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThanks for the great night. My heart was beating so fast right before I went up there I was afraid I was gonna run out of heartbeats. Once I got the first laugh it was all downhill! It was a great experience and I\u2019m glad I did it.\u201d \u2013 JD, (Dr.) Robotic Heart Surgeon<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe journey has been amazing! Watching everyone in the class including myself transform so fast in just three short weeks is astounding.\u201d \u2013 Rob Telecky, University Hospitals Project Coordinator, Construction Services<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cDave, I can\u2019t thank you enough. I have learned so much this past month, it\u2019s mind blowing. You are a great coach and I appreciate everything you taught us. You really gave me that push I needed to get on stage and I am forever grateful!\u201d \u2013 Michael Maffit, The Nick Cantanese Comedy Workshop Scholarship Winner<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cJust wanted to send along a little note to say thanks for your instruction and guidance during our classes. Also for putting together a great show on Wednesday night. My entire family was there and they had such a good time. That was the realization of a dream that I have had since I would watch An Evening At The Improv all those years ago. Crazy how that worked out with your involvement in both. So, thanks so much. I\u2019m off to do some more writing and find a stage to work it out on.\u201d \u2013 Josh Booth, Director \/ Editor \/ Motion Graphics Artist (received workshop as a surprise Christmas present!)<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I just want to thank you for all your advice and pointers. I&#8217;m certain that is why I had such a great show. All my friends and family loved it &#8211; thanks again!&#8221; &#8211; Nick Lenhardt, Chicago<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThank you for your guidance in taking a bunch of amateurs and putting us in a position to succeed. I had an unbelievable experience.\u201d \u2013 Joe Ross, Sales<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThank you so much! That showcase was HUGE and quite the rush. Thank you for the guidance and the opportunity to make a dream come true.\u201d \u2013 Mark Majercik, Nurse<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThis whole process was a dream come true. I loved every minute.\u201d \u2013 Matt Brown, Analyst at Progressive<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThank you again for the workshop, Dave! Bob S. and I (both students of yours), took first and second place in a comedy contest last night!\u201d \u2013 Joanna Butler, Cleveland<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Thank you from the bottom of my heart. It was such a pleasure learning from you.&#8221; &#8211; Phyllis Keene, Chicago<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;-<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThanks so much. Your ability to help students hone in on what\u2019s most important and most effective is amazing!\u201d \u2013 Neal Szpatura, Writer, Tarot Reader &amp; Shamanic Practice<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Thanks so much, again. I&#8217;m so impressed with how you make it all happen for everybody. Great class. Fun times for all. You&#8217;re the Best Comedy Coach in the world.&#8221; &#8211; Shelby Lane, MD, Detroit<\/p>\n<p>&#8212;&#8211;<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThank you very much for everything that you have done for us. It was very helpful.\u201d \u2013 Lance Willard, Wastewater Superintendent<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI really needed this as a kick in the pants to get started. Now I have no excuses.\u201d \u2013 Jennifer Griffin, Personal Assistant &amp; Promo Person<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThank you for your lessons in the business of comedy. Here we are less than a year later and I\u2019m well on my way, doing what I set out to do: making money as a comedian.\u201d \u2013 Dawn Holley, Comedian<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cDave: Just a short note to say thank you for all your efforts in putting together a great show Monday night. Penny and I had a wonderful time seeing all the comedians perform. The band of characters really came through. We were especially proud that our son, Dan came out of his shell and got up and did his thing. I hope with a little encouragement he will continue to perform. Please keep up the good work that you do.\u201d \u2013 With kind regards, Jim Levine<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>I have been telling everyone how great your workshop is. Honestly, when I think of how far we all came in three weeks, it\u2019s pretty amazing. You were great! I loved your stories, suggestions, etc. You have quite a wealth of experience that you shared with us. I never felt that you were name-dropping or out to just impress us. You were telling us what you have seen in order to help us. And given (our show) last night, it certainly did! It\u2019s a fabulous workshop and a fabulous price and a fabulous experience.\u201d \u2013 Linda Clark, Administrative Assistant<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI was really amazed at how much I improved over the three weeks. I\u2019ve been a writer for 20 years and this workshop was exactly what I needed to get me away from the computer and onto the stage \u2013 Vanessa Winans, Writer<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cExtremely helpful. You made me feel comfortable. Your teaching and constructive criticism are just what I needed. Don\u2019t be surprised if I take it again and again.\u201d \u2013 Donald Baughs<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>Worth the 4 hour drive from Rochester.\u201d \u2013 Kevin Berry, Corrections Officer<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThanks for the great class. The performance was a gas and my friends had a good time. It is amazing how far everyone progressed in such a short time. Says something for the quality of the instruction and coaching.\u201d \u2013 Doug Johnson, Computer Professional<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cDave, This is such a valuable tool. The workshop is motivating and inspiring. Thank you so much for all the big and little things you do to support us!\u201d \u2013 Roxane Larimore, Restaurant Manager<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>The combination of guidance and self-monitoring was perfect. I think even professional comedians would learn a lot more about the craft. \u2013 Jack Arnal, Student<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThis was a great workshop. I recommend it to anyone interested in performing or whatever your career is. It\u2019s fun and you learn a lot.\u201d \u2013 Joseph O\u2019Brien, Advertising Writer \/ Editor and Entertainment Columnist<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe workshop was an excellent tool in developing my own unique comedy style.\u201d \u2013 Rob O\u2019Reilly, Graduate of Boston University and Working Comedian<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cDave, the class was great \u2013 but your motivation was the true key.\u201d \u2013 Jim Broniec, Network Engineer<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cHey Dave, I just wanted to thank you for the workshop and the opportunity to perform. It was exactly the environment I needed to develop a set and to explore the interesting world of stand-up comedy. Performing was really exciting, and I feel great about it. My friends had a blast. Thanks for doing what you do.\u201d \u2013 Jane W., Counselor<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cLearned the difference between writing funny and talking funny.\u201d \u2013 Rodney Bengston, Editor Sun Newspapers<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIt was better than \u2018Cats.\u2019 I would take it again and again.\u201d \u2013 Tom Wilson, High School English Teacher<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI loved it. Thanks a bunch. I just got off the stage and I\u2019m pumped!\u201d \u2013 Pete Stancato, student<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWow! What a blast! I couldn\u2019t believe how everyone kicked ass when the time came. I had a great time in this class and I definitely plan to do more stuff. Thanks so much Dave! \u2013 Mike Baker, Computer Website Design and founder of ClevelandYucks.com<br \/>\n\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI don\u2019t know how anyone could break into comedy without a workshop like this. You do stellar work Dave. Your class changed my life, as corny as that sounds. I\u2019ve met so many cool people and done so many good shows.\u201d \u2013 Joe Howard, Comedian<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIt was great for building confidence.\u201d \u2013 Joan Sobel, Motivational Speaker<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI took this class without any clear goals, but now I know what I\u2019m going to do. I feel like I learned about 20 nights worth of open-mic bombing.\u201d \u2013 Teline, Graduate Student<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cYour suggestions and guidance throughout the workshop are alone worth it. Adding your business knowledge as well as your personal experiences to the workshop goes above and beyond the rates for the course. I almost feel guilty for not paying more!\u201d \u2013 Sharon Wilson, Biologist<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cLast night was a realization of a 40-year old dream, to do comedy in front of an audience. I honestly have never had a better night\u2019s sleep. I don\u2019t know where this may take me, but I had a blast. Again, thanks for your input and encouragement at the classes. Everybody raved about the show.\u201d \u2013 DeeZee, Hitachi Med Corp<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI thought the workshop was great! (And I don\u2019t mince words). I was amazed at how well everyone did at the show last night. The fact that everyone was so relaxed and confident on stage was a credit to you and your workshop. The workshop was worth every penny and what we learned will go on to last a lifetime. Thanks Dave for the opportunity.\u201d \u2013 Dallas LaRue, Musician<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWhere else can someone get such in depth, concise, professional experience in a such a short amount of time.\u201d \u2013 Steven Reilly, Engineering Manager<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>This workshop was excellent. The whole reason I picked this workshop is because of the extensive experience that Dave has. It has been an enjoyable walk through for stand-up comedy.\u201d \u2013 Chris Mundorf, Bartender<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI just gotta say thanks so much for such a wonderful workshop. Without your book and the workshop, I would still be contemplating a career in comedy and not actually starting one.\u201d \u2013 Ryan Karp, Waiter<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThanks for another round of the comedy workshop! The show was awesome! Everyone did great and the audience was perfect.\u201d \u2013 Mikki Weiner<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIt make more sense to me to go to the workshop to learn something, rather than spending the same money and time driving around to amateur nights \u2013 and not learning anything.\u201d \u2013 George Jackson<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cJust a quick note to say that you rock with this workshop! Thank you so much for making this available.\u201d \u2013 Bryan Lee Emler, Comedian<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cDave, I think the workshop is awesome! I sent JR\u2019s my tape and 45 minutes ago they called me because somebody cancelled. I\u2019m doing 5 paid shows next week. I\u2019m wetting my pants right now. Thanks for all the help.\u201d \u2013 Pat Alex<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI will take the workshop again! Thank you for putting this together.\u201d \u2013 Ari Katanick, Upper Management<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cYour diverse info and knowledge astounds me. I have full belief in your word and never left a class without learning something.\u201d \u2013 Unsigned, (but worth including!)<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI\u2019m enclosing my deposit for the next workshop. This last one was worth every penny!\u201d \u2013 Anita Lauer, Building &amp; Development Services Specialist<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThank you so much for your insight. I really enjoyed your workshop \u2013 it was most helpful. Thanks Again.\u201d \u2013 Felicia Hill, Manager of Crisis Intervention<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThis comedy thing just gets better and better\u2026 Once again, thanks for pointing me in the right direction.\u201d \u2013 YuShan Shakir, (Mr. Shan), Comedian<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI have always wanted to take this workshop since I read Dave\u2019s book. His input is very down-to-earth, matter-of-fact, and he is very positive!\u201d \u2013 Amy Annico, (I serve coffee at Starbucks sometimes)<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThanks so much for all of your help. The class was awesome, and really helped me not only develop that set to the point that is now, (which I know still isn\u2019t finished), but also to feel very comfortable on the stage.\u201d \u2013 Jim D\u2019Amico, Staffing Manager<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe workshop was sweet. Definitely worth every penny.\u201d \u2013 Brian Paoloni, (I sell ice cream at Dairy Queen)<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>Thanks again for the class. Last night was an experience I will NEVER forget\u201d \u2013 Eric Malkin<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI thought it was really fun \u2013 even though I was scared out of my mind to get up there on stage!\u201d \u2013 Cynthia Mikula, Dentist<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cAs someone who always had the desire, but lacked the direction needed to perform, your workshop was the perfect transition from the living room with friends to the stage with fans. You will see me again at the workshop and hopefully back on stage!\u201d \u2013 Bob Gearhart, Lake Erie Monsters \/ Quicken Loans Arena<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>I took (someone else\u2019s) class last year and comparing the two workshops available in Cleveland, yours is the better of the two. I\u2019m not meaning to put (him) down, but he\u2019d try to write jokes for me. None of them worked. In fact, I ended up just writing a bit I\u2019d been thinking about. He didn\u2019t put us on stage until the third workshop, in the corner of the meeting room of a hotel to get ready. As opposed to yours, which we were on stage getting a feel for from day one. And you gave feedback on style and concept. Your feedback made me take a step back and really look at my act as a whole, instead of just trying to add jokes. Honest feedback always helps and it is appreciated. \u2013 Preston Albert, Comedian<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cDave \u2013 Here\u2019s an update on how I\u2019m doing in Los Angeles. I just got a manager at Brillstein-Grey, so that is excellent. He saw me at an audition at ABC\u2019s \u201cKimmel\u201d showcase at The Improv on Melrose. This Sunday night I\u2019m going to be making a tape at The Improv with some impressions and stand-up, because they want to submit me for \u201cSaturday Night Live.\u201d I\u2019m getting to go up in other shows at The Improv too, which is very cool\u2026<\/p>\n<p>Thanks again for having your workshops and giving people who\u2019ve taken it a better understanding as to what all goes into stand-up from all aspects. I still find myself referring to your book and I\u2019ve even let people borrow it, (I know, I know \u2013 they should go out and buy a copy!). It always gets rave reviews.\u201d \u2013 Eric Moneypenny<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>Hi Dave \u2013 Please catch me on \u201cER\u201d tonight at 10 p.m. on NBC. I have a couple of lines as \u2018Jay Jay.\u2019 I want to thank you for your stand-up class. It has helped me in my acting career out here \u2013 I am now a resident of Los Angeles. \u2013 Jimmy Walker Jr.<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>Dave \u2013 The workshops keep me focused and moving forward in an environment I can\u2019t find else where. Your comments and emails are much needed encouragement that is helping me get this thing off the ground and any input only helps me to continue the creative process. In addition, I keep meeting people I want to know through your workshops and it all adds up to a positive for me. Thanks again for all the encouragement and subtle direction. I owe you a debt of gratitude. \u2013 Tom Eschelman<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>Dave \u2013 I can not tell you how honored I am to say that I took your workshop. I am sure I will be back! You rock!!! Thank you for helping me to grow and believe in my dreams! \u2013 Roxane Larimore.<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>Hey Dave \u2013 I just wanted to let\u2019ya know, I feel great. And your workshop started it all for me. I am a working comic like the people I used to see in clubs as a kid. I am now one of them because of you and your insight into the business of laughter. Thanks! \u2013 \u201cBig\u201d Jim Givens<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI was at Yuk Yuks on Sunday night and I am not bragging, but I owned the house. The other comics, many of whom were new, asked me about where I had taken my workshops and who held them. I mentioned your name. I was given high praises for the professional way I am on stage \u2013 thank you for that. Hope my conversation will fill your next workshop. This comedy thing is soooooo coooooool!!\u201d \u2013 Sue Bump<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI MC\u2019d all weekend at the Comedy Den in Grand Rapids. It was a great experience and I had a lot of fun. They even paid for a hotel room \u2013 I felt like a professional. How about that \u2013 from your workshop to paying gigs and a paid hotel room in a few short months! Thanks for everything! \u2013 Don Petersen<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>Dave \u2013 Just wanted to let you know what was happening with me. I\u2019ve got a showcase at The Boston Comedy Club in New York and my first feature gig at The Comedy Factory in Baltimore. I\u2019ve got 3 MC jobs over the next 2 months also. I can\u2019t tell you how much the stuff I learned in your workshop keeps coming back to me every time I work. Thanks for a great foundation. \u2013 Kirk Bogos<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cBest spent $200 of my life.\u201d \u2013 Jeff Scott, \u201cwork at a bank\u201d<\/p>\n<p>\u2014\u2013<\/p>\n<p>\u201cJust truly enjoyed Dave\u2019s non-judgmental approach \u2013 but at the same time his great ability to guide. Your class \u2013 and continuing emails, make for an extraordinary good bargain. I promote your class to many people.\u201d \u2013 Mary Hagan, Clerk of Council<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-155-2\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-155-2-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-155-2-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-image panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"2\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-image so-widget-sow-image-default-8b5b6f678277-155\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"sow-image-container\">\n\t\t<img \n\tsrc=\"https:\/\/thecomedybook.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/TheComedyBook-Banner-copy.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"119\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thecomedybook.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/TheComedyBook-Banner-copy.jpg 500w, https:\/\/thecomedybook.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/TheComedyBook-Banner-copy-300x71.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" title=\"TheComedyBook Banner copy\" alt=\"\" \t\tclass=\"so-widget-image\"\/>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"pg-155-3\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-155-3-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-155-3-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_text panel-first-child panel-last-child\" data-index=\"3\" ><h3 class=\"widget-title\">Contact<\/h3>\t\t\t<div class=\"textwidget\">Please send an email to Dave@TheComedyBook.com<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>&#8220;Hey Dave &#8211; I took your class around 10 years ago at The Cleveland Improv. I had terrible stage fright and needed a push to get on stage. Since then I&#8217;ve done standup on Late Night with Seth Meyers, Comedy Central, and my album, Desiree, came out today and is currently #1 on the iTunes [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":4,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-155","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","post"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/thecomedybook.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/155","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/thecomedybook.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/thecomedybook.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thecomedybook.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thecomedybook.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=155"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/thecomedybook.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/155\/revisions"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thecomedybook.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/thecomedybook.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=155"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}