Improv, Sketch Writing, Stand-up Comedy Classes Philadelphia & Online

TAKE A CLASS WITH US!

Crossroads Comedy Theater’s core education program includes Longform Improv, Musical Improv, Sketch Comedy Writing, Stand-up Comedy with new skills and courses always on the horizon. We invite the best instructors in the area to guide you through each course in a safe, supportive, and fun environment.

We also welcome guest instructors from Philly’s thriving arts scene and beyond to offer courses that supplement our core programs to strengthen the skills and stretch the muscles of our students.

At Crossroads you can study a variety of disciplines, because we believe that learning one art can both supplement and complement the skills you gain from another. Improv can help you think faster on your feet as a stand-up comedian or allow you to approach writing from a new direction, comedy writing can strengthen your skills as a stand-up and help you think more narratively on the fly in an improv scene, and so on. Studying with Crossroads Comedy Theater can help you become the best, most well rounded improviser, writer, stand-up, or hobbyist that you can be.

You do not need to have performance aspirations to benefit from our courses. The lessons learned at Crossroads go beyond the stage and page to benefit you in your everyday life and work. We can help you improve communication skills, build self-confidence, embrace collaboration, be more positive, think faster on your feet, break out of your shell, meet new people, and have more fun!

For those that are in this for performance opportunities, know that many from our education programs have gone on to perform in or write for shows with Crossroads as well as with other theatre companies and groups/teams around town. Our students are regulars at area auditions and stand-outs in the process. They have brightened the stages of area theaters by using the skills they’ve learned in our classes to be cast on a wide variety of teams and productions.

Whether you are an experienced performer looking to challenge yourself, an actor looking to expand your skill set, someone looking to step out of their comfort zone and meet new people, or a nine to fiver looking for some play time, we got you covered!

ONE DAY SAMPLE WORKSHOPS

Are you interested in taking a Crossroads class, but want to test the waters before jumping in to a full course? These one day workshops are for you! These classes are two hours or less and will give you the basic idea of what you can expect in a full, multi-week class with Crossroads. You will learn something new, make some friends, and have a great time doing it. We are currently offering one day workshops in improv with more options coming soon.

COMEDY WRITING

Whether you want to write for a sketch comedy show, write the next hit comedy series, or a big screen laugh riot – our Comedy Program can get your started on your path. We have a growing tracks for Sketch Comedy Writing and TV Writing with more focus areas to come soon. Given the nature of these being writing courses, it allows us to offer both in person and online options.

If you have never written a single sentence in your life or have no professional aspirations – no problem! Our expert instructors will guide you through the process and help you unlock the creative writer inside you.

LONGFORM IMPROV

Crossroads Comedy Theater offers a wide variety of longform improv courses with the best instructors in the Philly area at a price point and commitment level that is easier for all students. We have courses for people just that just want to have some fun for a couple hours each week, people that want to build valuable personal and professional skills, and regular improvisers looking to challenge themselves and realize their full potential as performers and artists.

Our longform improv which consists of four courses. Then there are optional electives which you can take based on your experience. In addition to our own electives, we also have a growing list of guest instructors who offer courses through our program.

MUSICAL IMPROV

Our Musical Improv program is the most comprehensive in the area so far. We have a four course program which guides you all the way from improvising your first line to improvising a full, hour long musical with your class. Our instructors are very experienced and have been involved in musical improv in Philly for many years. We are also lucky to have very experienced musical accompanists lead our classes.

Students are able to jump into our Musical Improv program after they have completed at least one improv course with Crossroads or have special permission. After that you can run straight through the program. The more skills you have as a traditional improviser, the better a musical improviser you will be. So though you do not need to complete the longform improv program, doing so will certainly strengthen your skills.

STAND-UP COMEDY

Learn the art of stand-up comedy, meet new people, and have fun in the positive and supportive environment we provide at Crossroads Comedy Theater. Our stand-up curriculum has is taught by people actively performing throughout Philadelphia and across the country. Our instructors will guide you from writing your first joke to performing at your first open mic to crafting your own act and finding your comic voice.

When you are performing stand-up you are up there alone, but that doesn’t mean that your journey to the stage has to be that way. Our classes will help you meet others that are just starting out, so you can support each other along the way.

ACTING, CLOWNING, AND MORE

Crossroads occasionally offers courses and workshops that fall outside our core program tracks. These special offerings can include, but are not limited to acting, clowning, physical theater, short form improv, storytelling, and more. We are always looking for new and exciting courses to grow and challenge our students or at the very least let them try something new.

OUR INSTRUCTORS

Crossroads Comedy Theater prides itself on our roster of instructors. We welcome some of the most experienced, talented, and known people in the Philly area and beyond to lead our core program courses, our workshops, and electives.

COURSE CATALOG

Below is an up to date list of all the courses that we offer. Here you will be able to see the various paths you can take as you journey through our program. Click the plus sign to view the course description and the accompanying info such as prerequisites, course length, next offered, and more. If you have any questions you can reach out to us at classes@xroadscomedy.com or call/text us at 215-650-7360.

COMEDY WRITING PROGRAM

SKETCH WRITING 1: SKETCH COMEDY BASICS

TYPE: Core | PREREQUISITE: None | COURSE LENGTH: 6 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: Two Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Various
DESCRIPTION: Unleash your inner SNL writer by learning the basics of writing sketch comedy in a fun and supportive environment. No experience necessary as our expert instructors will guide you each step of the way. Topics covered in this course include identifying what makes a sketch tick, how to pitch sketch ideas, various types of sketches, editing and re-editing your scripts, and how to give and accept constructive feedback. Students will learn how to use what they know to develop their own ideas, how to turn those ideas into sketches, and how to edit those sketches to be the funniest they can be. Completed sketches will be put into consideration for potential inclusion in upcoming student sketch showcases. Enroll now and start your sketch writing journey.

NEXT SCHEDULED: Session 4, September 2023. Click to see upcoming courses.

SKETCH WRITING 2: EXPLORATION OF SKETCH TYPES

TYPE: Core | PREREQUISITE: Sketch 1 | COURSE LENGTH: 6 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: Two Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Various
DESCRIPTION: This 6 week in person class will build on the basics of sketch comedy writing course. Students will dive deeper into game, working on new sketch types, giving and receiving constructive feedback, and writing as a group. This class will also help those with sketch writing experience to brush up on what they know, learn something new, and generally shake off the cob webs after a long hiatus. Sketch Writing 1 at Crossroads or prior experience required. Please email classes@xroadscomedy.com if you are unsure if you meet these requirements.

NEXT SCHEDULED: Not Currently scheduled. Click here to express your interest in this course!

SKETCH WRITING 3: CREATING A SKETCH SHOW

TYPE: Core | PREREQUISITE: Improv 2 | COURSE LENGTH: 10 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 2 Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Various
DESCRIPTION: This conservatory style class teach students how to put up an original sketch comedy show. Your instructor / director will go over all the moving parts from the writer’s room pitches, writing and revising sketches, giving and receiving constructive feedback, selecting sketches for the show and finally rehearsing and staging an original show for two performances on the Crossroads stage. Students are expected to both write and perform through the process.

NEXT SCHEDULED: Not Currently scheduled. Click here to express your interest in this course!

COMEDY WRITING FOR STAGE, TV, AND FILM: A CRASH COURSE WITH RICH TALARICO

TYPE: Elective | PREREQUISITE: None! | COURSE LENGTH: 3 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 3 Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Rich Talarico
DESCRIPTION: Rich shares insights and writing techniques from his 20+ years in late night TV (SNL, MAD TV, Key & Peele, The Tonight Show) and from having written five resident company shows for Second City in Chicago. Students will learn how to write jokes, how to write blackouts, how to brainstorm and pitch their ideas and how to outline a scene. How to tell a story. How to properly format and write their scenes. How to come up with endings. The group will also learn how to support others’ ideas – a key writers’ room skill. Limited to 8 students.

NOTES: This class is offered exclusively by Rich Talarico and is done so at the interest and availability of both Talarico and Crossroads. This is an online course offered using Zoom.

NEXT SCHEDULED: Not Currently scheduled. Click here to express your interest in this course!

“Rich knows how to write sketches — that much is obvious. But it was clear that he loves helping people get better too. . . I have never had a sketch class that helps people so much with how to think about comedy. Don’t wait to find a better sketch class. It might not come along.” — Tim Marks, The KC Improv Company and Co-Founder of Fountain City Sketch Company

“I seriously don’t think I’ve had the chance to absorb that much good content in a small amount of time ever… even in college!” — Jessica Christopher, Writing Student

ABOUT RICH TALARICO: Rich Talarico wrote Key & Peele favorites; Substitute Teacher, Kareem and Jahar, Dueling Hatz, Racist Zombies, Teaching Center, and many more. Rich has also written/produced “Review” for Comedy Central, FOX’s “MADtv,” NBC’s “Saturday Night Live” as well as “The Tonight Show w. Jay Leno.” Rich wrote on the NBC Must See TV: Tribute to James Burrows as well as NBC’s Red Nose Day and NBC’s New Years’s Rockin’ Eve hosted by Ryan Seacrest. Rich produced and wrote comedian Frank Caliendo’s “Frank TV“ for TBS. Rich was a writer/performer on “The Sketch Pad” for HBO. Rich did script punch-ups on Tina Fey’s “Mean Girls” and Jordan Peele’s “Get Out.”

Rich took his first improv class from Stephen Colbert at Chicago’s Second City in 1992 and then did a stint on the road with Second City’s National Touring Company performing “The Best Of The Second City.” Rich co-created five original sketch comedy revues with Second City’s Etc. and Main Stage Companies. While in Chicago, Rich worked extensively at Improv Olympic (now iO) under the direction of Charna Halpern and the late, Del Close. Rich performed with the early casts of Chicago’s longest running improv show: “The Armando Diaz Experience, Theatrical Movement and Hootenanny,” and performed on iO house teams “Mr. Blonde” and “Faulty Wiring.” Rich co-created the scripted hit parody “The Roof Is On Fiddler” with TJ Shanoff and co-created the long-form improv shows “Strap Heads,” “Trio,” “Close Quarters” and “Dasariski.”

As an actor, Rich has appeared on Comedy Central’s “Review,” “MADtv,” “Late Night With Conan O’Brien,” and the feature film “High Fidelity.” Rich has appeared in numerous TV commercials, most notably A&W Rootbeer’s classic ad, “Mr. Dumass.”

Rich Talarico Highlight Reel Featuring Some of His Key & Peele Sketches

LATE NIGHT WRITING INTENSIVE WITH ALISON ZEIDMAN

TYPE: Elective | PREREQUISITE: Sketch 1 or Stand-up 1 | COURSE LENGTH: 8 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 2 Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Alison Zeidman
DESCRIPTION: In this four-week online course instructed by Emmy-nominated writer, Alison Zeidman, you will learn all about writing for a late night comedy show. Alison will walk you through the process of writing traditional host monologue jokes, longer deep-dive monologue segments (think Last Week Tonight, Full Frontal with Samantha Bee), character and desk bits, and more. By the end of the class, you’ll have all the tools you need to prepare your own late night submission packet. Prerequisites for this course are Sketch Writing 1, Stand-up 1, or two years writing/performing comedy on a regular basis. This course has weekly homework which will be reviewed and discussed each class.

NOTES: This class is offered exclusively by Alison Zeidman and is done so at the interest and availability of both Zeidman and Crossroads. This is an online course offered using Zoom.

Alison Zeidman is an Emmy-nominated and WGA Award-winning writer and comedian who got her start doing stand-up and improv in Philadelphia. She’s written for Full Frontal with Samantha Bee (Supervising Writer), Adam Ruins Everything (Head Writer & Co-EP), and Archer (Contributing Writer), and her essays and humor writing have been published in the New York Times. While the WGA is on strike, she’s one of the volunteers working on Contract TK, a weekly Youtube show written and produced by the striking writers of your favorite late night shows.

She’s a lot friendlier and a lot less tough than she looks in her headshot and definitely hasn’t aged a day since it was taken [redacted] years ago.

PILOT WRITING 1: CHARACTER PIECES AND THE ROOTS OF PILOT WRITING WITH RICH TALARICO

TYPE: Core | PREREQUISITE: None | COURSE LENGTH: 6 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 2.5 Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Rich Talarico
DESCRIPTION: Rich Talarico shares insights and techniques from his many years in comedy beginning at Second City in Chicago to writing and producing on late night TV shows such as SNL, MADtv, Key & Peele, The Tonight Show. This course course will teach students how to develop characters for pilots and longer pieces. Course covers creating original characters, brainstorming, pitching, story-structure, script formatting and a variety of pilot writing techniques as well as pilot study. .

NOTES: This class is offered exclusively by Rich Talarico and is done so at the interest and availability of both Talarico and Crossroads. This is an online course offered using Zoom.

NEXT SCHEDULED: Not Currently scheduled. Click here to express your interest in this course!

“Rich knows how to write sketches — that much is obvious. But it was clear that he loves helping people get better too. . . I have never had a sketch class that helps people so much with how to think about comedy. Don’t wait to find a better sketch class. It might not come along.” — Tim Marks, The KC Improv Company and Co-Founder of Fountain City Sketch Company

“I seriously don’t think I’ve had the chance to absorb that much good content in a small amount of time ever… even in college!” — Jessica Christopher, Writing Student

PILOT WRITING 2: STORY, OUTLINE, AND SCRIPT WITH RICH TALARICO

TYPE: Elective | PREREQUISITE: Improv 3 | COURSE LENGTH: 8 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 2 Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Rich Talarico
DESCRIPTION: In this exciting Level 2 course, students will learn how to develop original characters, create emotional story arcs, and master proper structure and script formatting as well as learn other key techniques and skills that will enable them to craft compelling and successful original TV pilots. Through in-depth discussions, idea generation exercises, and hands-on writing assignments, students will deepen their understanding of what makes great television and how to create stories that will resonate with audiences. This class is available to any student who completed Pilot 1 or writers with Intermediate experience. This class will provide you with the tools and guidance you need to turn your ideas into powerful, well-crafted first drafts that will have the potential to stand out in a crowded industry. Final class will include a reading of some of the class material to family and friends.

NOTES: This class is offered exclusively by Rich Talarico and is done so at the interest and availability of both Talarico and Crossroads. This is an online course offered using Zoom.

NEXT SCHEDULED: Session 4 September 2023.

“Rich knows how to write sketches — that much is obvious. But it was clear that he loves helping people get better too. . . I have never had a sketch class that helps people so much with how to think about comedy. Don’t wait to find a better sketch class. It might not come along.” — Tim Marks, The KC Improv Company and Co-Founder of Fountain City Sketch Company

“I seriously don’t think I’ve had the chance to absorb that much good content in a small amount of time ever… even in college!” — Jessica Christopher, Writing Student

LONGFORM IMPROV PROGRAM

IMPROV BASICS WORKSHOP

TYPE: Elective | PREREQUISITE: None | COURSE LENGTH: One Day | CLASS LENGTH: 1.5 – 2 Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Various
This pay what you want, two hour workshop will teach you the building blocks of improv in a fun and supportive environment. You will see that improv is not just for performers, but is for everyone. The skills learned in our classes go beyond the stage and can benefit you in your everyday life and work! Fortune 500 companies are now routinely bringing in improv workshops to help build up their team members and their leaders. Improve communication, build self-confidence, think more positively, embrace collaboration, meet new people, and have more fun! These are just a few of the concepts we will touch on in this workshop through a series of fun exercises and games. Whether you have no performance aspirations or taking the first step on your journey to being a performer – this is for you!

NEXT SCHEDULED: Varies. Please click here to see classes page for more information.

IMPROV 1: IMPROV FOR EVERYONE

TYPE: Core | PREREQUISITE: None | COURSE LENGTH: One Day | CLASS LENGTH: 2 Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Various
DESCRIPTION: If you are looking to become a better listener, improve public speaking skills, build self confidence in front of groups, explore your creative side, meet new people, start your journey to becoming a performing improviser, or simply have fun for two hours a week – we got your back! This six week class is for everyone and will introduce you to the building blocks of improv in a fun, supportive, and welcoming environment with the best instructors in the Philly area. Enroll now and start becoming a better you. This class includes free admission to our live shows in Philly for the duration of the class as well as an optional class performance to celebrate your improv journey.

NEXT SCHEDULED: Session 4 Starting in September 2023. Click here to view classes page.

If you do not see this class offered on our full class page, click here to express your interest in offering it again soon.

IMPROV 2: FINDING THE FUN

TYPE: Core | PREREQUISITE: Improv 1 | COURSE LENGTH: 6 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 2.5 hours | INSTRUCTOR: Various
DESCRIPTION: This six week course introduces students to the Crossroads approach to improvised scene work. Students will learn various ways to find and play with the funny in a scene and how to build on it to create scenes that are as much of a joy to be in as they are to watch. Students will also dive deeper into on the spot character creation, how to initiate more clearly, and how to support more fully. You do not need to aspire to be an improviser to take this course. Some of the skills practiced in this course that go beyond the classroom are listening, teamwork, agreement, observational skills, and more. This course ends with an optional class performance.

NEXT SCHEDULED: Session 4 Starting in September 2023. Click here to view classes page.

If you do not see this class offered on our full class page, click here to express your interest in offering it again soon.

IMPROV 3: EXPANDING YOUR SKILL SET

TYPE: Core | PREREQUISITE: Improv 2 | COURSE LENGTH: 6 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 2.5 Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Various
DESCRIPTION: This six week class builds on the skills learned in Improv 1 and Improv 2 through a wide variety of new and expanded techniques. This course will push you to not only be a better improviser – but more well-rounded performer all together. Students will exercise their acting ability, learn how to mime objects convincingly, practice building believable environments on stage, get introduced to playing with genre, and other great skills to have as an improviser. If you have no aspirations to perform you will still gain valuable life skills from this course such as teamwork, communicating effectively, being adaptable, and more. This course ends with a class performance.

NEXT OFFERED: Session 4 Starting in September 2023. Click here to view classes page.

If you do not see this class offered on our full class page, click here to express your interest in offering it again soon.

IMPROV 4: IMPROV INSPIRED BY

TYPE: Core | PREREQUISITE: Improv 2 |COURSE LENGTH: 6 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 2.5 Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Various
DESCRIPTION: This 6 week course caps the core longform improv program at Crossroads Comedy Theater by pulling together all of the skills learned in Improv 1 – 3 and funnels them into the signature style of Improv at Crossroads. Students will learn to improvise scenes inspired from any source material. Students will learn how to thoroughly absorb and pick apart the source, use it for all its parts, and create scenes inspired by it that are smart, funny, and clear from the first line. Students will also learn the importance of patience in scenes inspired by a source and how to work together with their scene partners to keep the fun going.

NEXT OFFERED: Session 4 Starting in September 2023. Click here to view classes page.

If you do not see this class offered on our full class page, click here to express your interest in offering it again soon.

BIG DUMB FUN WITH NICK GILLETTE

TYPE: Elective | PREREQUISITE: Improv 1 | COURSE LENGTH: 8 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 2.5 Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Nick Gillette
DESCRIPTION: If you feel like your improv has become all talk, this class is for you. Make giant choices, be affected in huge ways, play like there’s no tomorrow. Express your most joyous creative impulses on stage. Remember how to trust your inner child, and celebrate that vulnerability. In this six week course you will learn scenic improv techniques based in clown and idiot styles. Taught by award-winning physical theater artist Nick Gillette.

NEXT SCHEDULED: Not currently scheduled. Click here to express your interest in offering it again soon.

NOTE: This course is is presented through Crossroads by Nick Gillette and any offering of the course at Crossroads is subject to the alignment of the interested and availability of the instructor and theater.

ABOUT NICK GILLETTE: Nick Gillette (he/him) is a physical theatre artist and improviser. Co-founder emeritus of Almanac Dance Circus Theatre. Graduate of the Pig Iron School for Advanced Performance Training, 2014 New York Live Arts Fresh Tracks resident artist, and 2016 Colgate University Christian A. Johnson resident artist, 2021 FringeArts Audience Choice Award winner for Comedy/Improv. With Almanac, he has devised and performed dozens of critically acclaimed nu-circus works. Co-creator of improvised absurdist plays with The Wadsworth Constant. Had performed with Cabaret Red Light, BRAT Productions, Lighting Rod Special, Pig Iron Theatre Co., Alex Bechtel, International Contemporary Dance Festival of Mexico City, and Vancouver International Improv Festival’s International Ensemble. He lives in Philadelphia with his wife and children.

BOLDY GO: STRONG SCENE STARTS WITH RALPH ANDRACCHIO

TYPE: Elective | PREREQUISITE: Improv 2 | COURSE LENGTH: 4 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 2 Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Ralph Andracchio
DESCRIPTION: Improv performers can sometimes struggle with how to start a scene. As soon as we step out from the backline, our minds can start racing… What is inspiring me? Where is my focus? What move can I make that’s interesting and honest? How can I give more gifts to myself and my scene partner? This class will explore those first few seconds at the start of a scene, how much amazing information is contained there, and how you can harness that information to make bold choices that can be the start of a great story.

NEXT SCHEDULED: Not currently scheduled. Click here to express your interest in offering it again soon.

DRAMATIC IMPROV 1: AN INTRO TO DRAMATIC IMPROVISATION WITH NICK GILLETTE

TYPE: Elective | PREREQUISITE: Improv 1 | COURSE LENGTH: 8 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 2.5 Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Nick Gillette
DESCRIPTION: Make “make believe” believable. Whether your goal is comedy or drama, you can’t move an audience to laughter or tears unless they believe the performance. In these 8 weeks of training, you’ll learn state-based acting, a flexible technique suited to the instant and unpredictable nature of improv. Express yourself in both subtlety and explosive emotion. Improve your understanding of the ensemble boundaries necessary to taking huge risks on stage. Dare to get real. Taught by award-winning physical theatre artist and improviser Nick Gillette.

NEXT SCHEDULED: Not currently scheduled. Click here to express your interest in offering it again soon.

IMPROV BOOTCAMP: GETTING BACK IN STAGE SHAPE

TYPE: Elective | PREREQUISITE: Prior Improv Experience | COURSE LENGTH: 8 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 2 Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Varies
DESCRIPTION: Your improv skills have been lying dormant, withering away with each passing day. Yes, and? Relationship? Harold… Now there’s a name I’ve not heard in some time. This eight week class, aimed at experienced improvisers*, will run you through the ringer to get you back in shape. Each week will focus on a different skillset; starting with the basics; moving to more advanced moves; culminating in a performance. Every two weeks will feature a new instructor, giving you multiple points of view within one eight week course. If you’re nervous about getting back on stage after so long, want a refresher on a variety of improv skills, or simply want to have fun with real humans for two months – we got your back!

NEXT SCHEDULED: Not currently scheduled. Click here to express your interest in offering it again soon.

INTRO TO THE HAROLD: IMPROV’S MOST FAMOUS FORM

TYPE: Elective | PREREQUISITE: Improv 3 | COURSE LENGTH: 8 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 2 Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Various
DESCRIPTION: Build on all the skills you’ve learned in improv and put them to work within the most famous of improv formats – The Harold! The Harold is like CrossFit for improvisers as it works all of your improv muscles – scenework, group scenes, second beats, game of the scene, characters, and more. You’ll get a great workout without having to flip any tires. This six week class will be lead by three instructors each with their own take on the Harold and each with their own focus for their time. If you’ve never studied the Harold, want a refresher, or simply want to do some improv with humans again – we got your back!

NEXT SCHEDULED: Not currently scheduled. Click here to express your interest in offering it again soon.

TOUR DE FORMS: A CRASH COURSE IN MULTIPLE LONGFORM STRUCTURES

TYPE: Elective | PREREQUISITE: Improv 4 | COURSE LENGTH: 6 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 2 Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Various
DESCRITPION: Are you tired of improvising in the same form over and over? Are you looking for something to challenge your skills as a team and as an individual improviser? This six week course give you a crash course on three different longform structures that will stretch your improv muscles and push you to grow. Forms will range from the famous to the obscure to originals created for this course. Instructors and forms will vary for each offering, so if you’ve taken the course before you may get a new experience taking it again.

NEXT SCHEDULED: Not currently scheduled. Click here to express your interest in offering it again soon.

MUSICAL IMPROV PROGRAM

MUSICAL IMPROV 1: MUSICAL IMPROV BASICS

TYPE: Core | PREREQUISITE: Improv 1 | COURSE LENGTH: 6 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 2.5 Hours
DESCRIPTION: Set your improv skills to music in our new Introduction to Musical Improv class! This six week course will teach students how to improvise lyrics along with musical accompaniment. Through various exercises and fun, musical games, students will learn about song structure, rhyming, and working with an accompanist. Includes a class show to show off your new musical improv talents!

NEXT SCHEDULED: Session 4, September 2023. Click to see upcoming courses.

MUSICAL IMPROV 2: MUSICAL SCENE STUDY

TYPE: Core | PREREQUISITE: Musical Improv 1 | COURSE LENGTH: 6 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: Two Hours
DESCRIPTION: This 6 week, in person class students will build on the skills they learned in Musical Improv 1 and dive deeper into creating and sustaining musical improv scenes. Students will learn to incorporate traditional improv technqiues into their musical improv scenework. Through lots of practice and instructor side coaching students will emerge from the class not just better musical improvisers, but better improvisers in general. Course includes an optional performance to celebrate your graduation from Musical Improv 2 as well as free admission to Crossroads Comedy Theater shows.

NEXT SCHEDULED: Not Currently scheduled. Click here to express your interest in this course.

MUSICAL IMPROV 3: SOLO WORK & GROUP SUPPORT

TYPE: Core | PREREQUISITE: Musical Improv 2 | COURSE LENGTH: 6 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 2.5 Hours
DESCRIPTION: In this 6 week, in person course students will focus on solo performance techniques, learning a variety of song types and musical styles, supporting your teammates with music and choreography, and more. Course concludes with an optional performance at the end of the course to showcase your new musical improv talents. Course also includes free admission to all Crossroads Comedy Theater Philly shows for the duration of the course..

NEXT SCHEDULED: Session 4, September 2023. Click to see upcoming courses.

MUSICAL IMPROV 4: PUTTING IT TOGETHER

TYPE: Elective | PREREQUISITE: Musical Improv 3 | COURSE LENGTH: 6 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 3 Hours
DESCRIPTION: In this 6 week, in person course students will build on all of the skills they have learned up to this point and put them together into an hour long improvised musical! Students will learn how to create and sustain a narrative and various ways to support the story, back-up your teammates, and keep everything fun. Course includes performances at Crossroads Comedy Theater and free admission to all shows Crossroads produces.

NEXT SCHEDULED: Not Currently scheduled. Click here to express your interest in this course.

STAND-UP COMEDY PROGRAM

STAND-UP 1: STAND-UP COMEDY BASICS

TYPE: Core | PREREQUISITE: None! | COURSE LENGTH: 6 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 2 Hours
DESCRIPTION: This 6 week in-person class will teach the basics of stand-up comedy from writing material to crafting your act. You’ll study with someone currently working in the business to guide you through the ins and outs of getting started. You will also meet like minded people so you can support each other on your comedy journey. Includes a class performance to show off your new stand-up skills. No experience necessary!

NEXT SCHEDULED: Session 4, September 2023. Click to see upcoming courses.

STAND-UP 2: DEVELOPING YOUR SET

TYPE: Core | PREREQUISITE: Stand-up 1 | COURSE LENGTH: 6 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: Two Hours
DESCRIPTION: This 6 week class will build on the basics learned in Stand-up 1. Students will workshop and organize bits, learn more about growing their jokes, dip into crowd engagement, and more. Students will be expected to make two trips to local open mics after class. This course includes an optional class performance. This course is great for those that have taken Stand-up 1 and are looking to continue on their stand-up journey as well as those who are looking to brush up on skills or learn some new ones.

NEXT SCHEDULED: Session 4, September 2023. Click to see upcoming courses.

STUDENT FAQ

Below are a bunch of frequently asked questions we receive for prospective students as well as current students. If you have a question that you do not see addressed here you can email us at classes@xroadscomedy.com and we will help you out.

Where are Crossroads classes held?

In person and Online via Zoom.

In person Crossroads classes are currently held at various spaces in Philly. Please be sure to check the location on the individual class page, currently listed at the bottom, for the exact location of your class. This information will also be included in a reminder email that will be sent to students the day before an upcoming course begins. Locations which we use most frequently include Philly Dance Fitness in Center City Philly and Sawubona Creativity Project in South Philly.

Our online classes are held through the magic of the internet via Zoom. These classes currently include options in Comedy Writing and Stand-up, potentially with more to come.

What kinds of courses are offered by Crossroads?

Crossroads Philly currently has 4 main programs: Improv, Musical Improv, Comedy Writing, and Stand-up and a variety of electives the supplement each program. Our full Course Catalog also includes special classes offered by local, regional, and national instructors that cover topics such as Dramatic Improv, Clowning, Pilot Writing, and more.

I've never done anything like this before - what class should I take?

This really depends on what you are looking to do. As we say throughout our site, the lessons learned in our courses go beyond the class to help improve and influence your everyday life and work. If you are looking to think faster on your feet, learn to be more adaptable and be open to collaboration, improve your listening and communication skills, and/or build confidence in front of groups in a course with no real homework - then we suggest our Improv 1 course.

If you are looking to do some writing and explore your creative side and how funny you really are or can be - then Comedy Writing or stand-up is the way to go. Both of these options do have some light homework attached, but that's how you get better!

Can I Audit a Class to See What It's Like?

We do not allow anyone to audit any of our 6 or 8 week classes, however; we do offer periodic intro classes in improv, stand-up, and comedy writing that you can register for. There are no auditing opportunities for classes beyond the intro level.

Whay payment methods do you accept?

We accept all major credit cards through our ticket and enrollment partner site, Fourth Wall Tickets. We have expanded options if students pay via invoice including Google Pay, and AfterPay. AfterPay is a digital payment platform offered to our students that allows them to delay payments on purchases. Students can make enroll in a class right away and then pay for the class in 4 interest free installments over 6 weeks.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes we do! Our main option is AfterPay. AfterPay is a digital payment platform offered to our students that allows them to delay payments on purchases. Students can enroll in a class right away and then pay for the class in 4 interest free installments over 6 weeks. To take advantage of this option you will need to email classes@xroadscomedy.com with the name of the course you are looking to enroll in. We will then send you an invoice for the class which will have AfterPay as a payment option. Make your payment and you're all set.

I just made my payment - what are the next steps?

Congrats on taking that first step! We are so very excited to have you. Right now you are all set. Within a few days (depending on when you enrolled) you will receive a registration email from our Education Coordinator. You should fill out this registration form as soon as possible. This email will also contain all the important information about your class including location, dates, time, etc with a link to the original class page on which you enrolled.

Once you have completed your registration form you are fully enrolled. You will not hear form the Education Center again until the day before class with a reminder email. If you have any questions about your class you can refer back to our registration email or feel free to reach out to us at classes@xroadscomedy.com.

I enrolled in a course and now see it is on sale. Can I get the new price?

Crossroads runs occasional sales on some or all courses. We know that no one likes paying for something and then seeing it advertised at a lower price. For that reason we have the Crossroads Price Match Guarantee. If you see your class advertised at a lower price, email us at classes@xroadscomedy.com while the sale is still active and we will refund the difference!

I have taken courses at other comedy theaters or in school. Can I skip courses at Crossroads?

You can skip Improv 1 at Crossroads if you have taken courses through another reputable training location (Crossroads Indy, iO Theater, ComedySportz, The Second City, The Annoyance, etc). In some cases, courses you have taken in college can also count. We list the prerequisite for courses in each description. If you are unsure if you meet our listed prerequisites, email your question to classes@xroadscomedy.com, detail your experience, and we will let you know before you enroll.

Can I enroll if I know I am going to miss one or more classes?

Though we suggest students wait for a course in which they can make all the classes, we do allow students to enroll that may have to miss for any reason. It's no replacement for actually being in class, but we do offer a recap of the class along with takeaways for the week. See the next question for our attendance policy.

What is the Crossroads attendance policy?

We understand that things come up that can impact schedules and cause students to be late or miss a class. For this reason we permit students to have two excused absences without impacting their enrollment. If a student misses more than two classes they may limit their ability to participate in some exercises or the class performance, risk failing the course, or potentially be asked not to return to class. Lateness is left to the discretion of the instructor and will be dealt with on a case by case basis depending on the disruption to the class. Our classes take place in Center City and South Philly, both very busy areas. We highly suggest students do what they need to do to be at class on time.

If your schedule changes and you find that you will miss more time than you expected and it is at least a week out from class we can either refund or transfer you to another section or future course. In some cases we may be able to offer a transfer inside of one week. There are no refunds or transfers after a course has started.

Will Class Be Canceled Due to Severe Weather?

In the event of severe weather, it is possible that classes could be disrupted. Our general rule is that if SEPTA is running then classes are on as scheduled. If we do cancel a class, for any reason, we will email students with as much notice as possible and will typically err on the side of caution. In the days that follow we will be in touch with how this cancelation impacts the schedule for rest of the course. At this time we do not switch to online courses in the event of cancellations of in-person classes, but it is something we are considering for the future.

We know that some students travel from outside the city. If severe weather hits your area hard, and class is still occurring as scheduled, please put your safety first and exercise caution traveling to class. Absences due to severe weather will be excused and not counted against you according or our attendance policy hindering your ability to advance through our program (though other factors would still apply). Students that miss due to extreme weather will have the option of reaching out to the Education Coordinator for tips gathered from the curriculum and instructor to try and keep them up to speed for the next class. In the event there are two of the same course happening during the same session, a student may request to make-up the class they missed so long as the make-up class happens after the absence. At this time we cannot offer make-up classes that extend beyond a single session.

Updated January 2024

I have to drop a course prior to the start date. What is the refund / transfer policy?

Oh no! We're sorry to see that you'll be missing out on all the fun and lessons of this course you were looking so forward to taking. A full refund is available up to one week prior to the start of the first class. No refunds will be issued after this time. Please double check your schedule and other commitments prior to enrolling. In some cases postponing enrollment to the next session may be permitted. Any questions about this policy can be emailed to classes@xroadscomedy.com. Policy updated October 2022.

I have to drop a course after the class has begun. What are my options?

Once a class has begun no refunds will be granted. In some cases we can offer a credit or defer your enrollment to another course in the future.

What happens if the class I am enrolled in gets canceled?

If we cancel a class for any reason, you will be given the option of getting a credit for a future class or receiving a refund to your original form of payment. Refunds can take anywhere from 3-10 business days to receive.

What is the Education Center's refund policy?

A full refund is available up to one week prior to the start of the first class. No refunds will be issued after this time. In some cases postponing enrollment may be permitted. Any questions about this policy can be emailed to classes@xroadscomedy.com. Policy updated October 2022.

Can A Friend or Family Member Join Me For a Class?

Unfortunately, no. We do not allow anyone other than enrolled students to attend our classes. This is a theater policy and is not the call of any individual instructors. This is for the safety and trust of all our students as well as keeping our class size manageable for the spaces that we use.

Are class graduation shows recorded? If so, when would I be able to see mine?

We make an effort to record all class graduation shows, but this is not a guarantee. If your class show was recorded we will edit, encode, and upload the video to an unlisted YouTube link, which we will then share with the class. This is a time consuming process, but we aim to have links out within a month following the performance. Delays may occur. If you would like to check the status of your class show recording you can email us at classes@xroadscomedy.com.

Do you give performance opportunities to Crossroads students?

We do! In addition to the class performance that happens at the end of some of our core program courses, we have the Improv Jam that happens when we have a performance run. Students can get up and play with more seasoned performers and get some stage time, practicing what they learned in class. We also regularly invite students from our education programs to perform in some of our productions as well as submit their writing for inclusion in shows.

Who can I contact with any further questions or concerns?

You can reach out to us at classes@xroadscomedy.com or call/text us at 215-650-7360.

I enrolled in a course, but would like to transfer to another course in the same session. Can I do that?

We understand that things up and schedules change and sometimes with little notice. For this reason do allow students to transfer to a different section of a course or a different course entirely within the same session. Please note that we will be implementing a Transfer Fee of $20 beginning in December 2023. When we receive your request we will email you a link to make payment. Once payment is made we will proceed with the backend work of completing your transfer.

If the new class is priced higher then students will be sent an invoice that includes the price difference plus the transfer fee. If the new class is priced lower, students will be sent a refund of the difference minus the transfer fee.

TAKE A CLASS WITH US!

ONE DAY SAMPLE WORKSHOPS

COMEDY WRITING

LONGFORM IMPROV

MUSICAL IMPROV

STAND-UP COMEDY

ACTING, CLOWNING, AND MORE

OUR INSTRUCTORS

Position: Improv Instructor Performer: Not Yet Rated, The Beacons Are Lit, Evesdropping

Email: kelly@xroadscomedy.com

Categories: All Current Performers, Evesdropping, Instructors, NYR Cast, Podcasting, Staff

Improv Instructor Performer: Not Yet Rated, The Beacons Are Lit, Evesdropping

Position: Stand-up Comedy Instructor

Categories: Instructors

Stand-up Comedy Instructor

Position: Sketch Writing Instructor Performer: Not Yet Rated & Study Hall Podcast: Lockin' Up

Categories: All Current Performers, Instructors, Lockin Up, NYR Cast, Study Hall Cast

Sketch Writing Instructor Performer: Not Yet Rated & Study Hall Podcast: Lockin' Up

Position: Sketch Writing Instructor

Categories: Instructors

Sketch Writing Instructor

Position: Improv Instructor

Categories: Instructors

Improv Instructor

Position: Improv Instructor Performer: Not Yet Rated & Study Hall

Categories: All Current Performers, Canned Peaches, Instructors, Podcasting, Study Hall, Study Hall Cast

Improv Instructor Performer: Not Yet Rated & Study Hall

Position: Improv Instructor Performer: Not Yet Rated

Categories: All Current Performers, Instructors, NYR Cast

Improv Instructor Performer: Not Yet Rated

Position: Musical Improv Instructor

Categories: Instructors

Musical Improv Instructor

Position: Improv Instructor Performer: Study Hall, Evesdropping, In My Opinon

Categories: All Current Performers, Evesdropping, In My Opinion, Instructors, Podcasting, Study Hall, Study Hall Cast

Improv Instructor Performer: Study Hall, Evesdropping, In My Opinon

Position: Improv Instructor Performer: Study Hall & Extree Extree

Categories: All Current Performers, Extree Extree, Instructors

Improv Instructor Performer: Study Hall & Extree Extree

Position: Musical Improv Accompanist

Categories: Instructors

Musical Improv Accompanist

Position: Stand-up Comedy Instructor

Categories: Instructors

Stand-up Comedy Instructor

Position: Improv Instructor Performer: Study Hall

Categories: All Current Performers, Instructors, Study Hall, Study Hall Cast

Improv Instructor Performer: Study Hall

COURSE CATALOG

STUDENT FAQ