Discover Your Inner Comedian: Top Improv Courses London Has to Offer

Fancy having a good laugh and maybe even finding your funny bone? London's got a bunch of places where you can learn the ropes of comedy, whether you're thinking about stand-up or just want to try some improv. It's not as scary as it sounds, honestly. These courses are designed to help you get comfortable, be more creative, and honestly, just have a really good time. So, if you've ever thought 'I could do that', then maybe it's time to find out. We've rounded up some of the top improv courses London has to offer, so you can stop wondering and start doing.

Key Takeaways

• Totally Unscripted offers beginner-friendly improv workshops, great for team building and boosting communication.

• Learn to generate material, find your voice, and perform a set in stand-up courses for all levels.

• Explore sketch and character comedy, working collaboratively to create scenes and characters for a showcase.

• Corporate workshops focus on team bonding and improving presentation skills through comedy.

• One-off workshops and drop-in sessions provide flexible ways to practice and get feedback on your comedy.

1. Comedy Lab Stand Up Course

Thinking about stepping onto the stage for the first time? The Comedy Lab Stand Up course is designed specifically for you. This isn't just about telling jokes; it's about finding your unique voice and learning the craft of stand-up comedy over ten weeks. You'll work with people who know the industry to put together your own four-minute set.

The course runs weekly on Saturdays, culminating in a public performance on a Monday evening. It's a commitment, so make sure you can attend all sessions. The structure generally follows a term-based system: January-March, May-July, and October-December, with application windows opening a few months prior. Keep an eye on their website and social media for exact dates.

Here's a rough idea of the schedule:

• Winter Term: January - March

• Summer Term: May - July

• Autumn Term: October - December

The fee is £150, but don't let that put you off if money's tight. They do offer bursaries for those on certain benefits, and they're open to discussing payment options if cost is a barrier. It's a great chance to get some solid training and experience, maybe even leading to a fantastic night out like the ones described here.

This course aims to equip you with the tools to write and perform your own material in a supportive environment. It’s a practical approach to learning stand-up, focusing on developing your act from concept to stage.

2. Beginners' Comedy Improv Workshop

Fancy giving improv a go but don't know where to start? This workshop is pretty much designed for you then. It's all about getting you comfortable with the basics of improvisational comedy, no prior experience needed whatsoever. Think of it as a playground for your mind, where you learn to think on your feet and build scenes from scratch with other people.

The main idea is to say 'yes, and...' to whatever your scene partner throws at you. It sounds simple, but it's the bedrock of improv. You build on ideas, rather than shutting them down. It’s a fantastic way to boost your confidence and learn to collaborate.

Here's a taste of what you can expect:

• Games and Exercises: You'll play loads of fun games that help you get used to spontaneous thinking and reacting.

• Scene Work: You'll start creating short scenes with others, learning how to develop characters and stories on the fly.

• Listening Skills: A big part of improv is really listening to your scene partners, and these exercises will sharpen that skill.

• Supportive Environment: It’s all done in a really friendly and encouraging atmosphere, so there’s no pressure to be hilarious from the get-go.

This kind of workshop isn't just about learning comedy; it's a brilliant way to improve how you communicate and work with others. You'll find yourself becoming more present and adaptable, not just on stage but in everyday life too. It’s a real mood booster and a great way to shake up your routine.

It’s a chance to be playful, connect with new people, and discover a creative side you might not have known you had. You’ll leave feeling a bit lighter and definitely more ready to embrace the unexpected.

3. Stand Up Courses for Beginners and Emerging Comics

So, you've got a funny bone and you're ready to give stand-up a whirl? Brilliant! This kind of course is exactly what you need, whether you're stepping onto a stage for the very first time or you've done a few open mic nights and want to get more serious about it. These courses are designed to help you find your voice and start crafting material that actually lands.

What can you expect? Well, usually, they're structured over several weeks, giving you time to really dig into the craft. You'll typically learn how to:

• Generate ideas and write jokes from your own experiences or observations.

• Develop a stage persona that feels authentic to you.

• Structure a short set, often aiming for around three to five minutes.

• Practice performing your material in a supportive environment.

Many courses culminate in a showcase, which is a fantastic opportunity to perform your polished set in front of an audience. It’s a bit nerve-wracking, sure, but incredibly rewarding. You'll also get feedback from tutors and fellow students, which is gold dust when you're starting out. It's a great way to get a feel for stand-up comedy and see if it's for you.

The focus is on building confidence and providing practical tools. You're not expected to be a seasoned pro from day one; it's all about the learning process and taking those first brave steps.

Some courses might even touch on the basics of self-producing or how to handle hecklers, though the main aim is usually getting that first solid set together. It’s a proper introduction to the world of stand-up, giving you a solid foundation to build upon.

4. Sketch & Character Comedy with Museum of Comedy

Fancy trying your hand at sketch writing or creating your own comedy characters? This course, put on in partnership with the Museum of Comedy, is a great shout. It doesn't matter if you've never written a joke before or if you're already a seasoned performer; there's something here for everyone. You'll get to explore different kinds of sketches, figure out how to come up with new ideas, and learn how to use improv to help build scenes. Plus, there's a big focus on making believable, funny characters.

Throughout the course, you'll be working with other participants. You might form sketch groups, team up as a double act, or work on solo character pieces. The whole thing wraps up with a showcase on the actual Museum of Comedy stage, which is pretty cool. It’s a chance to put what you’ve learned into practice in front of an audience.

Here’s a rough idea of what you can expect:

• Learning different sketch formats.

• Techniques for generating new material.

• Using improv to create scenes.

• Developing memorable comedy characters.

• Collaborating with fellow students.

• Performing in a final showcase.

This course is all about collaboration and creation. You'll be bouncing ideas off others and building something together, which is a really rewarding part of the comedy process. It’s not just about writing jokes; it’s about building worlds and people that make an audience laugh.

This workshop is suitable for anyone aged 18 and over.

5. Queer Theatre-Making

This course is all about exploring how we, as queer artists, make theatre. It’s a space to really dig into ideas about how gender and sexuality show up on stage, and what it actually means to ‘queer’ the whole process of making theatre. We'll be asking what's really at stake when we use our own life stories in our work, and what roles things like mess, fluidity, and just plain playfulness can have in queer performance.

It’s designed for any artists out there who want to challenge themselves, develop their practice, and inject some new energy into their theatre-making. If you're ready to take a few risks and rediscover that spark, joy, and transcendence that makes queer theatre so special, this is for you. Everyone on the course gets the chance to create their own short piece, either on their own or with others, and then share it at the end in a supportive showcase. This is for anyone aged 18 and over.

What to expect:

• Investigate the representation of gender and sexuality on stage.

• Experiment with 'queering' the theatre-making process.

• Develop new short performance pieces, solo or collaborative.

• Share your work in a supportive showcase.

This is a chance to push boundaries and explore new ways of creating performance that are authentic and exciting. It’s about finding your unique voice and sharing it with the world in a meaningful way.

6. Corporate Comedy Workshops

Looking to inject some life into your workplace? Corporate comedy workshops are a surprisingly effective way to get teams talking and laughing together. These sessions aren't about turning your accountants into stand-ups, but rather using the principles of improv and comedy to build better communication and collaboration.

The main idea is to get people out of their usual roles and thinking on their feet. It’s about creating a space where it's okay to be a bit silly and try new things without fear of judgment. This can really help break down barriers between colleagues and make everyone feel more connected.

Here’s what you can typically expect:

• Team Bonding: Activities designed to get people working together, listening to each other, and building on each other's ideas. Think of it as a fun, low-pressure way to practice teamwork.

• Communication Skills: Improv exercises often require clear and concise communication, as well as active listening. You'll learn to respond quickly and effectively to what others are saying.

• Creativity Boost: Stepping outside of normal work tasks can spark new ways of thinking. You might find yourself coming up with solutions to problems you hadn't considered before.

• Stress Relief: Let's face it, work can be stressful. A good laugh and a chance to be playful can do wonders for morale and overall well-being.

These workshops often focus on the 'yes, and...' principle of improv, which encourages participants to accept and build upon ideas rather than shutting them down. This simple concept can have a big impact on how teams approach challenges and collaborate on projects.

Many providers tailor these sessions to your company's specific goals, whether that's improving presentation skills, fostering a more inclusive environment, or simply giving your team a much-needed fun break. It’s a chance to see colleagues in a different light and come back to the office feeling refreshed and more connected.

7. One-Off Workshops

Sometimes you don't have the time or inclination for a full course, and that's where these one-off workshops really shine. They're perfect for dipping your toes into the world of improv or comedy without a big commitment. You can find sessions that focus on specific skills, like character work or joke writing, or broader introductions to the art form.

These shorter sessions are a fantastic way to get a taste of improv and see if it's for you. They often run for just a few hours, making them easy to fit into a busy schedule. It's a great chance to meet new people and try something different, all in a supportive environment.

Here's what you might expect:

• Focused Skill Development: Sessions often hone in on a particular aspect of comedy, like creating a character or crafting a punchline.

• Beginner Friendly: Many are designed with newcomers in mind, so don't worry if you've never done improv before.

• Flexible Scheduling: Typically lasting 2-4 hours, they're ideal for a weekend afternoon or an evening.

These workshops are a brilliant way to explore different facets of performance. Whether you're curious about cabaret, drag, or straight-up theatre, there's likely a one-off session out there for you. It's a low-pressure way to experiment and discover new talents.

8. Drop-in Stand Up Sessions

Fancy trying out some new jokes or just want to keep your performance muscles flexed? Drop-in stand-up sessions are brilliant for that. These aren't full-blown courses with a long commitment; instead, they're more like regular practice sessions for comedians, whether you're just starting out or you've been doing this for a while. You can turn up whenever you like, maybe weekly, maybe just now and then, to get feedback on your material and how you're delivering it.

It's a really good way to meet other people who are also trying to make it in comedy. You build up a network of mates who get it, and you can all help each other out as you get better. It’s all about working on your craft in a supportive environment.

Here’s what you can generally expect:

• Regular slots: Often held weekly, so you can plan them into your schedule.

• Feedback: Get constructive comments on your jokes and stage presence.

• Networking: Connect with fellow comedians and build your support system.

• Practice: A safe space to test new material or refine existing bits.

These sessions are perfect for anyone who wants consistent, low-pressure opportunities to perform and improve. It’s less about a structured curriculum and more about the ongoing process of writing, performing, and getting better.

Think of it as your comedy gym – a place to work out your ideas and get stronger as a performer without the pressure of a formal showcase every time.

9. Directing

So, you've been working on your stand-up set, maybe it's getting longer, or perhaps you're even thinking about a full-length show for festivals. That's where a director can really step in and help shape your vision. It's not just about telling jokes; it's about crafting a performance.

Think of it like this:

• Devising: Working out the core ideas and structure of your show.

• Dramaturgy: Looking at the narrative, pacing, and character arcs.

• Rehearsals: Getting the timing right, refining delivery, and blocking.

• Previews: Testing material with an audience before the big night.

• Opening Night: The final polish and execution.

A good director can help you see your work from an audience's perspective, spotting things you might miss. They're there to facilitate your creative goals, not to take over. It's a collaborative process, and having that outside eye can be incredibly beneficial when you're aiming for a polished, professional show. If you're serious about taking your longer sets or shows to the next level, consider finding someone to help guide you through the process. It's a step many professional comedians take when developing new material or shows, and it can make a real difference to the final product. You can find out more about different types of comedy training in London here.

Working with a director isn't about someone else telling you what to do. It's about having a partner who helps you realise your own ideas more effectively. They bring a different perspective and can help you overcome creative blocks.

10. Stand Up Courses for Returning and Developing Comics

So, you've done a beginner's course, or maybe you've been gigging for a bit and feel like you're ready to move beyond the open mic circuit. This is where things get interesting. These courses are designed for comics who aren't exactly new to the game but want to seriously level up their craft. Think of it as going from knowing the basic chords to writing your own album.

What can you expect? Well, it's not just about writing more jokes. You'll be looking at how to build longer sets, potentially aiming for a full festival show. That means structuring your material, finding a consistent voice that's truly yours, and figuring out how to self-produce and direct your own work. It’s about taking control of your comedy career.

• Developing your unique comedic voice: Moving beyond imitation to authentic expression.

• Crafting longer sets: Learning the art of pacing, callbacks, and narrative arcs.

• Industry insights: Understanding self-production, directing your own shows, and navigating the business side.

• Showcase opportunities: A chance to test out new, longer material in a supportive environment.

These programmes often focus on the practicalities of being a working comedian, not just the writing. It's about building resilience and a sustainable career path.

It's a step up, for sure, but if you're serious about making stand-up more than just a hobby, these courses are a solid investment in your future as a performer.

Ready to Get Funny?

So, there you have it. London's got a whole heap of places where you can go and learn to be funny, whether that's making stuff up on the spot with improv or trying your hand at stand-up. It might seem a bit daunting at first, but honestly, everyone starts somewhere. These courses are designed to be welcoming, even if you've never told a joke in your life. Think of it as a chance to shake things up, meet new people, and maybe, just maybe, discover a side of yourself you never knew existed. Go on, give it a go – you might surprise yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between improv and stand-up comedy?

Improv is all about making things up on the spot, without a script, often with a partner or group. Stand-up comedy usually involves telling pre-written jokes or stories to an audience, often with a specific persona.

Do I need to be funny to join an improv class?

Not at all! Improv is more about being spontaneous and saying 'yes, and...' to what others offer. It's a skill you learn, not something you're born with. The classes are designed to help you find your funny side.

What should I expect in a beginner's improv workshop?

You'll play lots of fun games and do simple exercises that help you think on your feet and work with others. It's a really supportive space where everyone is learning together, so there's no pressure to be perfect.

How long do these comedy courses usually last?

Courses can vary a lot. Some are one-off workshops lasting a few hours, while others are longer, like 10-week courses that build your skills over time. There are also drop-in sessions for regular practice.

Are there any courses specifically for LGBTQ+ individuals?

Yes, there's a course called 'Queer Theatre-Making' that explores how LGBTQ+ artists create work and represent gender and sexuality on stage. It's about making theatre from a queer perspective.

Can I take an improv course for my job?

Absolutely! Some places offer 'Corporate Comedy Workshops' that are great for team building, improving communication, and boosting creativity within a workplace. Improv is brilliant for helping colleagues connect.