NY Hysterical Society Kids
“Laughter is the best medicine and these classes give kids a safe space to share frustrations as they learn the art and science of comedy.”
— Former NY State Mental Health Official
"What an amazing experience you gave the kids. They were all so impressive and we are so grateful. Our family all loved it- even from England. So fun." - Diana H. (satisfied parent)
"Thank you so much, Bernie! What a great class. It was so much fun seeing my daughter get excited writing down material, and playing around with it. Thank you again for your tireless work and dedication to the kids." - Chad V. (satisfied parent)
"Thank you, Bernie, for making a positive difference in my child’s life and I hope this program will continue to grow. For any parent considering a comedy class taught by Bernie, please, think no further. Sometimes we don’t know the effect we can have on others. Thank you again for being such a positive influence on my child. What a gift." - Linda N. (satisfied parent)
"Thank you so much for giving my son such a great experience in your class. The show yesterday was terrific!" - Jen B. (satisfied parent)
Keep your kids busy with one of the best activities for summer (and any season) fun — virtual comedy classes for kids on Zoom. Kids ages 10-16 have lots of time on their hands, so imagine letting your child’s creative energy be redirected to learning skills that help develop personal and intellectual development, like humor and comedy. Kids in our classes sharpen their wit, writing skills, build character and confidence, and learn public speaking skills in a fun way.
The program ends with a real-stage performance in conjunction with other performing artists at an in-person venue at the end of the summer program. The date and time will be announced.
This summer, let your child do something special and different, make new friends, and feel good about themselves.
Register for our 12 Week Comedy for Kids Program Basics
Comedy Producer, Bernie Furshpan, is the lead instructor and is joined by working comics who give their feedback in several of the classes. For more info about Bernie Furshpan, click here.
- Up to 20 kids each class / ages 10-16.
- Students get instructor and guest comedian feedback
- Graduation is a live virtual or in-person showcase
- Benefits include:
- Life-long writing, presentation and social skills
- Confidence Building / Stage Presence
- Comedy writing skills
- Stage, Microphone techniques and crowd work
- Impromptu speaking skills; quick, think-on-your-feet, wit
Policies:
- Students participate in each class.
- All material and video samples used in this program are PG-13 rated.
- We avoid matters of racism, vulgarity and what is generally considered to be offensive.
- Includes a digital manual via email for printing prior to classes. There are homework assignments included.
Classes Cover
- History of Humor and Laughter
- Improvisational Exercises
- Different styles of comedy and samples
- Glossary of Terms
- Comedy writing and delivery skills
EQUIPMENT NEEDED:
- Portable PA Speaker System, with handheld microphone (Archeer~$50)
- Microphone Stand - Universal Mic Mount with Heavy Compact Base, Height Adjustable (~ $20)
Laughter is the best medicine and these classes give kids a safe space to share frustrations as they learn the art & science of comedy. ~ Former NY State Mental Health Official
My son thinks the classes are wonderful. He is having fun and talking about things that build character and sensitivity. The "homework" involves observing behavior and thinking about how to develop funny stories. ~ Parent of attendee
Buy the full package of 10 classes for only $295 (save $99)
Purchase at least 60 minutes prior to the first class. If you miss any classes, there is no refund, but you will be credited for classes you miss in the next round and if you miss 3 or more classes, your live performance will be with the following graduating class.
Next Weekly Session of Classes begin on Sunday, October 4 at 1pm EST.
About us
Meet Bernie
Meet Bernie
Meet Bernie
Bernie Furshpan has been teaching basic comedy writing and has written about the premise of humor in his book, A Joke is a Formula - Do the Math. He is the lead instructor at The NY Hysterical Society School of Comedy and has now incorporated it into the virtual classroom on MetropolitanZoom. He has been a Comedy producer, Comedy TV Pilot Executive Producer, writer, emcee and performer at many comedy shows. He has presented and produced over 6,000 productions with professional entertainers and comedians since 2004. He owned and operated Metropolitan Room in NYC (In association with Gotham Comedy Club).
Meet Lois
Meet Bernie
Meet Bernie
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Lois Beekman-Oliveira is a Promoter and Administrator at our Comedy Classes for Kids. Lois has served on the Boards of Barnard College / Columbia University, The 92nd Street Y, The Tampa Performing Arts Center, and CARE. She has been Board Chair of The National Coalition to End Domestic Violence, The Child HELP Partnership and The Woman's Board of the Michael Bolton Charities . Lois developed the model for the Explorers Club's Annual International Event and received an Award from The American Bar Association's Commission on Domestic Violence for developing National Awareness Projects.