Here's what former workshop members have to say...

"This whole process was a dream come true. I loved every minute." - Matt Brown, Analyst at Progressive

"Thanks so much. Your ability to help students hone in on what's most important and most effective is amazing!" - Neal Szpatura, Writer, Tarot Reader & Shamanic Practice

"I just wanted to say thanks to Dave and to all of you for making this class such a fantastic experience. I left last night feeling so fired up about it all that I can't wait to get up on stage again." - Joel Beck

"The best part of the Workshop experience is the sense of community among the performers. I think every person in the group contributed to everyone else's success whether by adding a line or a kind word... and just had a blast doing it. That kind of thing doesn't happen enough in life.... and you have established the formula and the atmosphere that makes it work! Thanks!" - Ross Wason, Sr.

"Thank you again for having the class that got me up on that stage! The entire night was thrilling. You did a great job coaxing the best out of all of us." - Erin Wason, Food Writer

"Thank you very much for everything that you have done for us. It was very helpful." - Lance Willard, Wastewater Superintendent

"I feel like a friggin' star! You built up my confidence and helped me hone my skills and polish my act. You rock! I love you!" - Sharon Lomurno

"I really needed this as a kick in the pants to get started. Now I have no excuses." - Jennifer Griffin, Personal Assistant & Promo Person

"Thank you for your lessons in the business of comedy.  Here we are less than a year later and I'm well on my way, doing what I set out to do: making money as a comedian." - Dawn Holley, Comedian

"Dave: Just a short note to say thank you for all your efforts in putting together a great show Monday night. Penny and I had a wonderful time seeing all the comedians perform. The band of characters really came through. We were especially proud that our son, Dan came out of his shell and got up and did his thing. I hope with a little encouragement he will continue to perform. Please keep up the good work that you do." -  With kind regards, Jim Levine

"I have been telling everyone how great your workshop is. Honestly, when I think of how far we all came in three weeks, it's pretty amazing. You were great! I loved your stories, suggestions, etc. You have quite a wealth of experience that you shared with us. I never felt that you were name-dropping or out to just impress us. You were telling us what you have seen in order to help us. And given (our show) last night, it certainly did! It's a fabulous workshop and a fabulous price and a fabulous experience." - Linda Clark, Administrative Assistant

"I was really amazed at how much I improved over the three weeks. I've been a writer for 20 years and this workshop was exactly what I needed to get me away from the computer and onto the stage - Vanessa Winans, Writer

"Extremely helpful. You made me feel comfortable. Your teaching and constructive criticism are just what I needed. Don't be surprised if I take it again and again." - Donald Baughs

"Worth the 4 hour drive from Rochester." - Kevin Berry, Corrections Officer

"Thanks for the great class. The performance was a gas and my friends had a good time. It is amazing how far everyone progressed in such a short time. Says something for the quality of the instruction and coaching." - Doug Johnson, Computer Professional

"Dave, This is such a valuable tool. The workshop is motivating and inspiring. Thank you so much for all the big and little things you do to support us!"  - Roxane Larimore, Restaurant Manager

The combination of guidance and self-monitoring was perfect. I think even professional comedians would learn a lot more about the craft.  - Jack Arnal, Student

"This was a great workshop. I recommend it to anyone interested in performing or whatever your career is. It's fun and you learn a lot."  - Joseph O'Brien, Advertising Writer / Editor and Entertainment Columnist

"The workshop was an excellent tool in developing my own unique comedy style."  - Rob O'Reilly, Graduate of Boston University & NYC Comedian

"Dave, the class was great - but your motivation was the true key." - Jim Broniec, Network Engineer

"Learned the difference between writing funny and talking funny." - Rodney Bengston, Editor Sun Newspapers

"It was better than 'Cats.' I would take it again and again." - Tom Wilson, High School English Teacher

"I loved it. Thanks a bunch. I just got off the stage and I'm pumped!" - Pete Stancato, (15-years old / high school student)

"Wow! What a blast! I couldn't believe how everyone kicked ass when the time came. I had a great time in this class and I definitely plan to do more stuff. Thanks so much Dave! - Mike Baker, Computer Website Design

"I don't know how anyone could break into comedy without a workshop like this. You do stellar work Dave.  Your class changed my life, as corny as that sounds. I've met so many cool people and done so many good shows." - Joe Howard, U.A.W. (Ford Automotive Worker)

"It was great for building confidence." - Joan Sobel, Motivational Speaker

"I took this class without any clear goals, but now I know what I'm going to do. I feel like I learned about 20 nights worth of open-mic bombing." - Teline, Graduate Student

"Your suggestions and guidance throughout the workshop are alone worth it. Adding your business knowledge as well as your personal experiences to the workshop goes above and beyond the rates for the course. I almost feel guilty for not paying more!" - Sharon Wilson, Biologist

"Last night was a realization of a 40-year old dream, to do comedy in front of an audience. I honestly have never had a better night's sleep. I don't know where this may take me, but I had a blast. Again, thanks for your input and encouragement at the classes. Everybody raved about the show." - DeeZee, Hitachi Med Corp

"I thought the workshop was great! (And I don't mince words). I was amazed at how well everyone did at the show last night. The fact that everyone was so relaxed and confident on stage was a credit to you and your workshop. The workshop was worth every penny and what we learned will go on to last a lifetime. Thanks Dave for the opportunity." - Dallas LaRue, Musician

"Where else can someone get such in depth, concise, professional experience in a such a short amount of time." - Steven Reilly, Engineering Manager

"This workshop was excellent. The whole reason I picked this workshop is because of the extensive experience that Dave has. It has been an enjoyable walk through for stand-up comedy." - Chris Mundorf, Bartender

"I just gotta say thanks so much for such a wonderful workshop. Without your book and the workshop, I would still be contemplating a career in comedy and not actually starting one." - Ryan Karp, Waiter

"Thanks for another round of the comedy workshop! The show was awesome! Everyone did great and the audience was perfect." - Mikki Weiner

"It make more sense to me to go to the workshop to learn something, rather than spending the same money and time driving around to amateur nights - and not learning anything." - George Jackson

"Just a quick note to say that you rock with this workshop! Thank you so much for making this available." - Bryan Lee Emler, Comedian

"Dave, I think the workshop is awesome! I sent JR's my tape and 45 minutes ago they called me because somebody cancelled. I'm doing 5 paid shows next week. I'm wetting my pants right now. Thanks for all the help." - Pat Alex

"I will take the workshop again! Thank you for putting this together." - Ari Katanick, Upper Management

"Your diverse info and knowledge astounds me. I have full belief in your word and never left a class without learning something." - Unsigned, (but worth including!)

"I'm enclosing my deposit for the next workshop. This last one was worth every penny!" - Anita Lauer, Building & Development Services Specialist

"Thank you so much for your insight. I really enjoyed your workshop - it was most helpful. Thanks Again." - Felicia Hill, Manager of Crisis Intervention

"This comedy thing just gets better and better... Once again, thanks for pointing me in the right direction." - YuShan Shakir, (Mr. Shan), Comedian

"I have always wanted to take this workshop since I read Dave's book. His input is very down-to-earth, matter-of-fact, and he is very positive!" - Amy Annico, (I serve coffee at Starbucks sometimes)

"The workshop was sweet. Definitely worth every penny." - Brian Paoloni, (I sell ice cream at Dairy Queen)

"Thanks so much for all of your help. The class was awesome, and really helped me not only develop that set to the point that is now, (which I know still isn't finished), but also to feel very comfortable on the stage." - Jim D'Amico, Staffing Manager

"Thanks again for the class. Last night was an experience I will NEVER forget" - Eric Malkin

"I thought it was really fun - even though I was scared out of my mind to get up there on stage!" - Cynthia Mikula, Dentist

  "I really enjoyed your class. It was a great experience. I learned a heck of a lot from you and the others. A very cool part of the experience is meeting people from all walks of life. I cannot even express the feeling I got from hearing people laugh during our show! Even my mother approved. WAY COOL!!" - Steve Nelson

"I took (someone else's) class last year and comparing the two workshops available in Cleveland, yours is the better of the two. I'm not meaning to put (him) down, but he'd try to write jokes for me. None of them worked. In fact, I ended up just writing a bit I'd been thinking about. He didn't put us on stage until the third workshop, in the corner of the meeting room of a hotel to get ready. As opposed to yours, which we were on stage getting a feel for from day one. And you gave feedback on style and concept. Your feedback made me take a step back and really look at my act as a whole, instead of just trying to add jokes. Honest feedback always helps and it is appreciated. - Preston Albert, Comedian

Workshops "On The Road"...

"I was very impressed by your presentation and your knowledge of the industry and it's many facets. I can rarely make it through a 2 hour movie, yet here I was riveted for 4 hours. You can quote me if you like :-)" - Jim Taylor, Huntington Beach, CA Workshop.

"I want to thank you for being such a valuable part of the 2004 Gulf Coast Comedy Festival. Your exceptional workshop was a tremendous addition and all of the comedians commented on how much they learned from you. Your presence at our budding event really was extremely beneficial and I can't thank you enough. We all feel very lucky to have met you and hope we can have you back. I have nothing but respect for you and I look forward to your next book." - Eternally Grateful, Sammy Wegent. Producer, Gulf Coast Comedy Festival.

I had the pleasure of attending Dave's, (2-day Philadelphia), workshop recently and found it to be very worthwhile. Not sure if you've read the book How To Be A Working Comic, but unlike most comedy books that just talk about how to write and deliver comedy, Dave's book also hones in on how to promote yourself as a comedian. There are tips on creating your promo package - including headshots, business cards, resumes, videos, etc. He offers suggestions on how to get more quality stage time and includes many helpful interviews with successful comedians.

  Having worked at The Improv in NYC and LA, and as the talent coordinator for A&E's An Evening At The Improv, Dave is incredibly knowledgeable about the business of comedy. He will provide helpful tips on improving your act and marketing yourself.

  Following the class, you can keep in touch with Dave via phone or email - and he is incredibly personable and helpful. If you have the weekend free, I highly recommend this workshop! - Theresa Hummel-Krallinger, Laughologist

"Thanks for the great seminar.  So far you are the nicest and most helpful person that I have met in this crazy field." - Kind Keith, Philadelphia

"Great seminar this weekend... Dave Schwensen's info about the business and everyone's feedback was well worth the price." - Tim Nestor, Philadelphia

I attended your workshop at Jokers in Dayton a while back. I'm starting to feature doing one-nighters on the road and working up to featuring on club dates. Your seminar helped me out a lot. - Ken Ferguson

"Thanks to your notes in the workshop, I've hacked off big chunks of unnecessary complexity in my act. Big loads of karma to you.  Thanks." - Basil White, Washington DC

"As far as I'm concerned, your seminar was the one event in that whole deal, (festival), that made it worthwhile. I've been telling people all over the place how dynamic and informative you are. Thanks again, you were great." - Sharman

Feature Articles By Workshop Members...

By Evelyn Theiss for The Cleveland Plain Dealer - Click here to read article

By Vanessa Winans for The Toledo Blade - Click here to read article

By Dawn Holley - Click here to read article

Congratulations go out to...!!

(That makes four - Congratulations Scott!)

Dave,

  Here's an update on how I'm doing in Los Angeles. I just got a manager at Brillstein-Grey, so that is excellent. He saw me at an audition at ABC's "Kimmel" showcase at The Improv on Melrose. This Sunday night I'm going to be making a tape at The Improv with some impressions and stand-up, because they want to submit me for "Saturday Night Live." I'm getting to go up in other shows at The Improv too, which is very cool...

  Thanks again for having your workshops and giving people who've taken it a better understanding as to what all goes into stand-up from all aspects. I still find myself referring to your book and I've even let people borrow it, (I know, I know - they should go out and buy a copy!). It always gets rave reviews.

  Later,

  Eric Moneypenny

Hi Dave,

  Please catch me on "ER" tonight at 10 p.m. on NBC. I have a couple of lines as 'Jay Jay.' I want to thank you for your stand-up class. It has helped me in my acting career out here - I am now a resident of Los Angeles. - Jimmy Walker Jr.

Dave,

  Just wanted to say hi and tell you that things are excellent here in Boston.  I have been practicing material as a regular at Dick Doherty's Comedy Vault and  I already have at least 15 more minutes.  I sent a tape of my Cleveland Improv workshop performance to Rick Jenkins at the Comedy Studio. He liked it and put me on stage. I did really well, and got called back to do it again. Things are looking up. Thanks for all of your help. 
Sincerely, 

Rob O'Reilly

Dave,

  The workshops keep me focused and moving forward in an environment I can't find else where. Your comments and emails are much needed encouragement that is helping me get this thing off the ground and any input only helps me to continue the creative process. In addition, I keep meeting people I want to know through your workshops and it all adds up to a positive for me. Thanks again for all the encouragement and subtle direction. I owe you a debt of gratitude. - Tom Eschelman

Hey Dave , 

  I just wanted to let'ya know, I feel great. And your workshop started it all for me. I am a working comic like the people I used to see in clubs as a kid. I am now one of them because of you and your insight into the business of laughter. Thanks! - "Big" Jim Givens

Dave,

  Just wanted to let you know what was happening with me. I've got a showcase at The Boston Comedy Club in New York and my first feature gig at The Comedy Factory in Baltimore. I've got 3 MC jobs over the next 2 months also. I can't tell you how much the stuff I learned in your workshop keeps coming back to me every time I work. Thanks for a great foundation. - Kirk Bogos

Hi Dave!

  I just wanted to send you a little 'update e-mail' as a former student of your comedy workshop. I have been going to open mics in Chicago and have a paying gig at Riddles Comedy Club. I've also been doing some Ohio clubs and just got back from guest sets at two "A" clubs in Wisconsin (The Skyline Cafe and The Comedy Cafe) and both clubs are having me back as a paid emcee. Very exciting stuff!
  Hope all things are well with you and thank you for writing that book and offering that class because you have provided me with some very valuable tools!  - Sharon Wilson

Dear Dave, 

  My thanks to YOU for allowing me to do a guest spot. I had a blast! Please tell your students that I saw another "graduating class of comedians show," and the caliber was no where near the students in your show. Your students were genuinely funny AND nice - keep up the good work! It's a great testimony to you that your students reflect what you teach them. You should be very proud.  - Alex House, (NYC 'working comedian')

Dave,
  Just a quick e-mail to convey a funny story. Not funny, ha-ha but...
  As you know, I was late to the Improv for our show Monday night because I cut my leg. Did not think much of it and then on Tuesday had a friend look at it and ended up at an urgent care. 

  Here's the funny part. After I got stitched up, I was walking out to meet my friend to go home and the receptionist stops me. She insists she has seen me somewhere before but did not know where. After several minutes she shrieked and exclaimed, "Girl, you're that funny comedian from the Improv! I saw your set last night. I knew I knew you."

  Anyway, she thought that the entire show was amazing for a bunch of new acts. She went on and on and said that she was actually considering the class as a result of the show.
  Thought you would enjoy that story. - Liz

Don't even think we're done with this stuff yet...

"Great time. I suggest it to anyone thinking of pursuing comedy as a career or hobby." - James Aslinger

"Best spent $200 of my life." - Jeff Scott, "work at a bank"

"Taking the workshop a second time allowed me to focus on delivery and technique. Thanks Dave." - Gary Bogdanski, Golf Course Equipment Manager

"Just truly enjoyed Dave's non-judgmental approach - but at the same time his great ability to guide. Your class - and continuing emails, make for an extraordinary good bargain. I promote your class to many people." - Mary Hagan, Clerk of Council

"Overall, Dave's wealth of experience made the class very worthwhile." - Mark Stiles, Sports Reporter

"You were very open and supportive and never a clock watcher. I'll always remember this as a positive experience." - Mikel P. Hall, Production Worker

"I loved it Dave. Thanks for helping us out!" - Maria Borgio, Technical Analyst

"I loved it again. I feel more comfortable about tryin' to get in the biz." - K.T. Tatara

"Every once in awhile it's nice for someone you respect to tell you you're good. Dave does that and that's worth the bucks." - Jeff Darling, 'Entrepreneur Restarantaro & non-speller'

"Thanks again! It gives you more confidence than you'll ever know." - Jason Palmer

"A lot of fun. I learned a lot - good confidence booster." - Todd Kollus

"Got good advice on predicting and adjusting to audience reaction. It's very different format from Toastmasters and I learned how to adapt material to the audience, rather than do the material for its own sake." - Trina Hess, English Teacher

"It was great." - Marla Colvin, Psychologist - Assistant Professor

"Enjoyed the comedy think tank once again!" - Jim Fath, Call Center Manager

"Speechless. Excellent! I got my money's worth." - Mike Sacket, Salesman

"Excellent training. Each one of us was tutored individually and as a group!" - Garry W. Jenkins

"Thanks for all the knowledge, advice and encouragement." - Ed Cavanagh, Manager Rascal's Comedy Club, NJ

"Enjoyed myself. Had a blast!" - Tony Johnson, School Teacher

"The insights into the business side of comedy are invaluable." - Glenn A. Earich, Comedian

"Your faith and overall goodness in spotting people's strong and weak points were a tremendous help in developing our confidence. We need you!!!" - Anita Biondic, Actor

"I really enjoyed the workshop. I learned what it takes to be funny in front of a group of strangers and paying customers!" - Chris Hirschler, College Instructor

"Dave's workshop is a great place to find out if you're ready for the world of comedy... and visa-versa." - Eric Baker, Security Supervisor

"I really enjoyed the comments and help on 'what is funny,' and the fun we had doing it." - Willie Stamper, Local Business Owner

"This workshop provides a good balance of the art of performing and business of performing - giving equal time for being funny and making money." - John David Sidley, Speechwriter, Video Scriptwriter & Media Relations for The Cleveland United Way

"I would recommend your workshop to anyone who is considering a career in comedy. Your knowledge of the business side of the comedy industry, your insight and honesty in evaluating stand-up technique and humor was invaluable. I don't think I could have found the courage to try without the workshop." - Charlita Anderson, Attorney

"Good specific help about my material. I'm going to be on stage and that's what I wanted to do. (I couldn't do it by myself). Thanks!" - Mike Melvin, Advertising

"I got more out of it than I figured. I like your attitude." - Mark Wolf, Police Sgt.

"Your performance notes were right on the money. I wish your class was a whole semester long." - Jim Oncken, Group Home Counselor

"This class was the perfect tool to get me off my butt and make me write a set." - Unsigned, but meaningful!

"Dave is truly a resource in the comedy business. His knowledge of the industry is indispensable. If you only have the money to buy one friend, buy Dave." - Tommy Darrell Jr., Comedian

"I wish I had met you 9 years ago doing amateur nights... Gave me a focus and a belief." - Neil Oblonsky, Insurance

"I worked every weekend since March and I don't have a week off until Thanksgiving. And then not until the 3rd week in January. I've also started doing some feature work. You workshop was a HUGE help. Thank you very much for everything! - Don Petersen

"This is a great class and Dave was very informative. I laughed, I cried, I enjoyed it when he spanked me. P.S. - Just kidding about the crying!" - Dave Brady, (D. Driver), Truck Driver

"Great class - enjoyed the book too. Thanks for the advice and guidance. I will be more than happy to come back after I make it and do a live comedian interview!" - Rob Rudy, Computer Programmer

"It is amazing that you put in the extra effort to try to individually help your students. You are a great teacher!!!! - Ellen Darby, Video Editing