Beginners Comedy Course

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

Go from “I could never do that” to your first live comedy gig in 8 weeks.

A stand-up comedy course for complete beginners who want more confidence, better stories, new mates and the unforgettable buzz of performing live.

Book your place on a Beginners Comedy Course

2027 Dates

• Brighton 9th February
• Worthing 20th April
• Brighton 7th September
• Duration: 8 weeks, including live Graduation Gig
  Class size: 12–15
  Price:
• Standard £425
• Early-bird £395– available until 60 days before the course start date
• Concessions £375 – available for students, over 65s and those receiving benefits.
  Deposit and split payment available

No experience required

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, a confidence boost, or simply something unforgettable to do.

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.

You do not need to arrive with jokes. You do not need to be the loudest person in the room. You do not need to feel confident. That’s what the course is for.

‘I loved this course. Coming along to each class would be 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

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.

Can’t make every session? Don’t worry. There’s rarely a course where everybody manages every single class, as work, family and life inevitably crop up. Missing the odd session is absolutely manageable, with handouts, catch-up summaries in the following class, and the option to join online if you can’t attend in person.

Please Note:

Course bookings are for the specific course and dates selected at the time of booking. Places cannot be transferred to a future course if you’re unable to attend.

If you miss a session, we’ll do our best to help you catch up with notes, handouts or an online option where available, but missed sessions do not carry over to another course.

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 course takes you step by step through the process of creating and performing your first stand-up set.

You’ll learn:

• How to generate comedy ideas from real life
• How to turn thoughts, stories and frustrations into material
• Simple joke-writing tools and comedy structures
• How to create an opening, middle and closing for your set
• How to build confidence on stage
• Timing, delivery and stage presence
• How to use a microphone
• How to handle nerves
• How to edit and strengthen your material
• How to connect with an audience
• How to prepare for your first live performance

Each week includes practical writing exercises, performance practice, group support and individual feedback.

You’ll also receive homework, notes and prompts between sessions to help keep your ideas moving.

‘The beginner’s comedy course was one of the most challenging but rewarding experiences of my life. It was a great opportunity to write and then perform your material in a non-judgemental and supportive environment, but also have it critiqued. Louise is a great teacher and thanks to her years of experience on the comedy circuit, she will provide you with endless invaluable advice for kick-starting your comedy career.’ Marc Pinto, Comedy Writer

Course Details

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

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.

What Happens After the Course?

For some people, the Beginners Course is a brilliant one-off experience.

For others, it is the start of a longer comedy journey. Students who show commitment, potential and readiness may be invited to apply for the next stage of training and will be invited on the Comedy Performance Programme.

Progression is not automatic. Students are invited or accepted based on readiness, commitment and fit for the group.

1:1 Comedy Coaching
For experienced comedians and students who want individual support, help developing material or guidance outside the group course structure.

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 1997 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.

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.

‘I love Brighton Comedy Course. After a bad experience with another local comedy course, my confidence had taken a real knock. The group had been huge, so we didn’t get to perform or receive feedback every week, and there wasn’t the same sense of building towards a proper graduation performance for friends and family.
Brighton Comedy Course changed that. Louise creates a supportive, encouraging environment where everyone gets to write, perform, receive feedback and grow each week. It restored my comedy faith.’
Carli Susu, Business owner

Book your place

Places are limited and courses often fill quickly.

If you’re ready to give stand-up comedy a go, book your place and come and join us.

You don’t need experience.

Just a sense of humour, a bit of courage and a willingness to surprise yourself.

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. 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 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

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:

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“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

Refunds and transfers

Please check the refund policy before booking.

£50 of your course fee is a non-refundable admin deposit.

If you cancel more than 30 days before the course start date, you’ll receive a refund minus the £50 admin deposit.

If you cancel between 15 and 30 days before the course start date, you’ll receive a 50% refund minus the £50 admin deposit.

If you cancel within 14 days of the course start date, no refund is available.

Once the course has started, refunds or transfers are not available, regardless of circumstances.

Places are non-transferable and cannot automatically be moved to another course.

By booking a place, you are agreeing to the refund policy.

Concessions

A limited number of concession places are available. Concession places are intended for students, people on low income or those who would otherwise find the full fee difficult. Please contact Louise before booking if you would like to request a concession place.

You need to bring current proof of concession status with you to the first class.

Age limit

You must be 18 or over to join the course.