Class: Standup 101 w/Nathan Hartswick [Jan/Feb]

About the Class

This class is designed to help you develop 5 minutes of solid material—and the skills to perform it live in front of a crowd of strangers. Each class, you’ll perform jokes for a supportive classroom of aspiring comics, and get expert guidance from the instructor on how to improve your material and tailor your performance.

As you hone your act, you’ll learn to “think like a comedian,” using experiences and observations from your own life to create your own unique comic voice.

Most exciting, the workshop will culminate with a live performance at VERMONT COMEDY CLUB for family and friends – a safe way to “ease into” the world of standup.

About the Instructor

Nathan Hartswick is a performer, educator, and the co-founder and co-owner of Vermont Comedy Club. He has taught the “Intro the Standup” class for over 10 years and it is one of his favorite things to do! As a standup comic, he twice won the "Best VT Standup Comic" Daysie (readers' choice award) from Seven Days and toured throughout New England.

He was a founding member of VCC’s mainstage team, The Unmentionables, performs regularly with the “Kingdom Kids,” and has studied with instructors from UCB, The Second City, and iO. Talk to him about: US History!

Testimonials from Students

"I was consistently impressed with your thorough and thoughtful break-downs, and your generous, spot-on contributions. It was awesome, all around."

"Nathan, thanks for all your feedback, instruction and encouragement. It was great. I felt so light every time I came out of that class. Light and happy."

"Just wanted to say thanks again. I learned a lot and had a great time doing it. Keep up the good work."

"I had an awesome time. I gotta say the whole experience is something that’s gonna stay with me for a really really long time. Your instructions were priceless/fun and it made the 2-hour drive totally worthwhile."

"Thank you so much for all of your comedic insight over the past 7 weeks! I've read bits and pieces of stand up books, and no advice was better than yours. You never told us what jokes to make and not make - you gave us total creative control, but guided us in developing the best material that we could possibly create for ourselves. You instilled confidence in us. You were positive 100% of the time. I sincerely doubt that I would have been able to get onstage without all the time well-spent in your class. You are amazing!"

Policies & Procedures

Covid-19 Policy: Vaccinations and boosters are recommended but not required. Masking is at the student’s discretion. All classes take place in our spacious showroom, with no more than 15 people.

Cancellation Policy: We will refund 100% of tuition for cancellations made 14 days (or more) before the start of any class. Tuition cannot be refunded on cancellations made fewer than 14 days before the class. Contact us if you wish to cancel.

Concerns About Payment? If you have the desire to learn, we want you to have the opportunity! We frequently offer installment plans and partial or full scholarships (need-based and diversity). If you are having trouble affording this class, contact us to work out an arrangement.

Know someone who would love this class? Go ahead - buy a friend or family member a gift certificate!