Beginners Comedy Course

Beginner’s Stand-Up Comedy Course – Brighton Comedy Course

Have you always wanted to try stand-up comedy but never quite had the nerve? Or maybe you’re looking for a new challenge, a way to meet people, or simply to do something unforgettable?

The Beginner’s Comedy Course is the heart of Brighton Comedy Course and the most popular way to start your stand-up journey. Over 8 weeks, you’ll go from blank page to live performance, learning the skills, methods, and confidence to write and deliver your own comedy set.

We believe everyone has it in them to be funny. With expert guidance, a supportive class, and a bit of bravery, you’ll surprise yourself with what you can achieve.

Why Choose the Brighton Comedy Beginner’s Course?

This isn’t just a comedy course—it’s a launchpad for confidence, creativity, and connection. Here’s what you’ll get:

• Confidence like never before – Step out of your comfort zone and learn to own the stage. Many students say it helps them kick arse at work presentations too.
• Stronger communication skills – Sharpen your timing, delivery, and clarity in a way that spills into everyday life.
• Real-life kudos – Imagine the look on your kids’ faces when you tell them you’ve performed a stand-up set in front of a real audience.
• A creative outlet – Comedy is a brilliant way to channel frustrations, joys, and observations into something positive.
• A ready-made community – Every course develops a team spirit. You’ll leave not just with a comedy set but with new friends.

What You’ll Learn

The beginner’s comedy course takes you step by step through everything you need to craft and perform your first set:

• How to generate ideas from real life (anything that makes you mad, happy, sad, or confused is potential gold).
• Writing exercises to turn thoughts into sharp, funny material.
• How to structure a set and find your unique comedy voice.
• Timing, delivery, and stage presence.
• How to deal with nerves and perform with confidence.

Each week is hands-on, with plenty of laughter, writing games, and performance practice. You’ll also get weekly homework to keep your ideas flowing and your material building.

At the end of the course, you’ll perform at the Graduation Gig—a live comedy show where you take the stage and deliver your debut set to an audience. Most students say this is one of the best nights of their lives.

Course Details

Course Duration: 8 weeks (7 workshops + 1 Graduation Gig)
Class Times: 7pm – 9pm weekly. Breaks during school holidays, then resume the following week.
Price: £375

Venues:

• Brighton: The Chimney House Pub (upstairs), 28 Upper Hamilton Rd, Brighton BN1 5DF. Street parking with meters.
• Worthing: The Brewhouse & Kitchen, Wykeham Road. Free parking or 5 minutes from the station.
• Online: Zoom link emailed the day before the course begins.

Community Extras:

• Optional after-class drinks—great for bonding with your coursemates.
• WhatsApp group for tips, encouragement, and gig info.
• Access to follow-on pathways if you want to continue your comedy journey.

What Happens After the Course?

Graduates usually leave buzzing with adrenaline and pride after the gig, but your comedy journey doesn’t have to stop there.

• If you’re serious about gigging and want to push your performance further, you may be invited to join the Performance Path (Intermediate and Advanced Courses).
• If you’d prefer to keep it creative, social, and fun without chasing gigs, you can join the Creative & Social Path with options like The Comedy Club and Creative Writing Courses.

Many students also book 1-to-1 Comedy Coaching for tailored support, with a 20% discount for course attendees.

About the Tutor

The course is led by Louise Stevenson, a professional comedian, communications coach, and author with over 25 years’ experience in the comedy world.

Louise began her stand-up career in 1999 and has performed at major clubs and festivals across the UK, including the Edinburgh Fringe. She reached the finals of So You Think You’re Funny?, the UK’s most prestigious comedy competition, where she was knocked out by Russell Brand. Since then, she has shared the stage with well-known names such as Jimmy Carr, Alan Carr, and Rich Hall, and appeared on Channel 4, RTE, and BBC Radio.

She is also the author of three books:

• The New Comedians’ Handbook
• How to Be a Comedian and Smash Your First Gig
• Die Laughing — a dark psychological thriller about a stand-up comedian and serial killer who chooses his victims from the audience.

As the founder of Brighton Comedy Course, Louise has trained thousands of aspiring comedians and public speakers. She is passionate about seeing students come out of their shell, step onto stage with confidence, and stride off afterwards buzzing with pride at what they have achieved.

Many students have gone on to comedy competition success, secured work on the professional circuit, or written material for television and chat show hosts. Stand-up comedy is hard work and a tough industry, so Brighton Comedy Course does not promise instant fame or fast-track celebrity status. With hard work, guidance, and talent, however, the possibilities are endless. The course pathway—from Beginners to Intermediate to Advanced—is designed to give students the strongest possible chance of progress and impact.

Louise’s teaching style is supportive, practical, and fun. She blends professional expertise with humour and encouragement, ensuring every student feels ready to take the mic and make their audience laugh.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need any experience?
No, the beginner’s course is designed for people with zero comedy or performance background.

What if I’m terrified of performing?
That’s completely normal—almost everyone feels nervous at first. The course is designed to build your confidence step by step, and by the time the gig arrives, you’ll be ready. The camaraderie and support from your group will spur you on too. Everyone is in the same boat, and there’s a real comfort in facing it together.

How many people are in a class?
Classes are kept small enough for individual feedback but big enough for a great group energy. Generally, between 12-15.

What if I can’t make every week?
Regular attendance is important, as each week builds on the last. You can miss up to two classes, and homework, class summaries, and handouts will help you stay on track. If you know you’ll miss more than that, it may be better to join a later course so you can be fully prepared for the graduation gig.

Do I have to do the Graduation Gig?
The gig is part of the course, and we encourage everyone to do it—it’s an amazing experience and the perfect way to round off the course, but no, it’s not a necessity to taking the course.

How do I find the right course for me?
Start by checking reviews and recommendations. You can also get a feel for our approach by reading one of our books—The New Comedians’ Handbook or How to Be a Comedian and Smash Your First Gig. Both give you a sense of the personality and experience of founder Louise Stevenson. Some students join us after rough experiences elsewhere—such as overcrowded classes, limited stage time, or very little feedback and encouragement. At Brighton Comedy Course, we keep group sizes manageable and ensure every student gets proper performance time, feedback, and support every week. Having run for over 16 years, we pride ourselves on being one of the most encouraging and welcoming comedy courses around.

Is the course just for future comedians?
Not at all. Many students join to build confidence, improve presentation skills, or simply take on a new challenge. Some go on to perform professionally, while others see it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. For some, it’s about stepping out of their comfort zone and meeting new friends—and for a few, it’s just about enjoying a pint on a Tuesday night with a great group of people.

Are there any mementos of the course?
Yes. You’ll receive photos and video footage of your graduation night—memories you’ll look back on with pride and plenty of laughs. And of course, you’ll also take away something even more valuable: a new group of friends.

Book Your Place

Spaces are limited, and the Beginner’s Course always sells out quickly. Secure your place now and take the leap into stand-up.

BOOK YOUR PLACE ON THE BEGINNER’S COMEDY COURSE

Student Testimonials

There are over 80 reviews on our Facebook page, along with first-hand testimonials on LinkedIn—feel free to check them out. Here are just a few highlights from past students:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“I loved this course. Coming along to each class was the highlight of my week. Louise is a really supportive teacher and gives you valuable insight from her time on the circuit. You meet a wonderful group of people from a range of backgrounds who are all drawn together by their love of comedy. The course is excellently divided into half theoretical and half practical. The graduation gig at the end was an absolute blast. I really enjoyed it. I recommend this to anyone and everyone!”
Richard Parr – Sports broadcaster, producer, podcaster, and comedian

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“I’ve just finished Louise’s comedy course and graduation gig, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done. I’ve had a two-month mood boost that would make a therapist envious.”
Sophie Fyles – Partner | Chief Client Service Officer UK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“I felt as if I wasn’t going anywhere with comedy and was sick of reeling out the same stuff. I couldn’t find the time or motivation to write a new set. I knew I’d benefit from writing a whole new ten minutes but never sat down to write it. I probably lacked a bit of confidence too and was worried that it wouldn’t be any good. I tried out material in a few open mic nights, which was more comedians than audience, and didn’t find that helped much. Having a mentor who listens, critiques my set, and helps me tweak it to its best has been invaluable. Thanks, Louise—it’s been great.”
Jason Levitt – Head of BT Projects

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE COMEDY COURSE

After completing the Beginners Course, there are two different pathways depending on your goals and interests:

🎭 Performance Path
For those who want to push their stand-up further and explore the comedy circuit.
Graduates who show commitment and potential will be invited to join the waitlist for this pathway, which includes the Intermediate and Advanced Courses, a Refresher Workshop, socials, and private WhatsApp group.
Optional extras: 1:1 coaching and eligibility for the Comedy Accelerator Course.
Full package: £795

🟣 Creative & Social Path
For those who love comedy, writing, and performance in a relaxed, fun environment — without the pressure of gigging.
Includes The Comedy Club, Creative Writing Course, Refresher Workshop, socials and the WhatsApp group.
Full package: £795

Whichever direction you take, we’re here to support you with expert guidance and a brilliant community of fellow comics.

Welcome on board!