From Our Amazing Students

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“A great course which breaks down comedy to unlock your inner funny person!

-- Severin Gourley, Wellington

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“I’ve loved every minute of this course, it’s been a huge confidence boost, highly entertaining, and grounded in practical theory and technique. If you’re teetering on whether to give it a shot or not, do it, you won’t regret it.”

-- Dave Adams, Christchurch

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    Eddy Rodriguez, Auckland

    I loved the camaraderie and friendliness from everyone and the willingness to learn and tell a story. I enjoyed the class so much and the graduation class was such a rocking experience! The best part of it is that I am so stoked to keep doing it!! Thanks to both Neil and Tim! Greatest instructors ever!!

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    Nina Hogg, Wellington

    The scholarship scheme made it possible for me to learn stand-up in a way that made me feel prepared for the industry, and confident in my own material. Neil was able to work with me bringing him nothing at all. He wasn’t ever disparaging, only ever supportive, encouraging and a clear communicator.

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    Kevin Biggins, Wellington

    The NZ Comedy School makes the journey to performing comedy easy in fun, relaxed and friendly classes. Everything is broken down into easy steps. Excellent enthusiasm and encouragement. Neil broke down each hurdle into fun sized packets. Neil has a great ability to make the group feel confident and happy to get on stage. Thank you for all the help. You run an excellent course.

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    Cassie Taurima, Wellinton

    Neil is a phenomenal coach and the Number One comedy Dad of Wellington. He really makes it feel like something anyone could do stand-up with a bit of effort.The basics and way we were brought through the process was perfect.

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    Simon Haxton, Wellington

    Neil is awesome! He brought enthusiasm, availability and commitment to the students.

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    Chris Hislop, Wellington

    I loved the course Neil! I think my mates were blown away by how good we all were at the graduation show. This is the perfect course to get started.

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    Yvette Liu, Wellington

    The Comedy School had a very engaging and positive atmosphere. Neil created a safe, open and diverse space for inexperienced talent.

  • Neil is an excellent teacher as well as an excellent comedian - and will make sure you will succeed better than a toothless budgie! Thank you from the heart of my bottom!

    Andy Maloney, Wellington

  • Neil provides a warm and inclusive learning environment, tailors his teaching to suit the students and has a wealth of knowledge and experience that he clearly loves to share. If you're curious, nervous or unsure - sign up. You won't regret it!

    Mary Little, Wellington

  • I came with fear of performing in front of other people but everyone was so welcoming. Neil was a real asset to the team. Keep up the good work! You're doing an absolutely incredible job!

    Alexandra Kraus, Wellington

  • Neil was open, honest, fun and most importantly showed us how to be silly. Enjoyed working in groups, the warm ups to start with and getting some actual stage time.

    Jyoti McKenzie, Wellington

  • Lots of hard work, but lots of laughs and the thrill of being on stage! Neil's enthusiasm for his work is exceptional, which makes him a great teacher. Overall I would easily recommend the classes to anybody interested. A once in a lifetime experience with a little aftertaste of wanting more!

    Wendy Hatfield, Wellington

  • Such an amazing course. Worth every dollar! The support is unreal, it really makes you feel that you can do something that on the surface seems pretty scary. Anyone can be funny with the training offered by the NZ Comedy School.

    Wendy Rusell, Wellington

  • THANK YOU, this was my lifelong dream, and the nurturing atmosphere of this course made it possible. Neil affirms everyone and is able to make any feedback positive. He gives you freedom, but also makes sure you know where you need to improve. It was amazing and I couldn't have wished for better! I will never forget the graduation performance, it was magic! You rock!

    Kasia Czarkowska-Guziuk, Wellington

  • I loved the supportive environment and the growth-mindset approach. Everyone had an environment that was nurturing and positive. If you are new to comedy and scared to take a leap, there is no other place more supportive, encouraging and nurturing in the early stages of your development, which in show business is a refreshing change!

    Charlie Laurie, Auckland

  • Neil taught me a new form of public performance - the art of telling a joke. His coaching and feedback helped me to understand how to structure a joke for maximum impact, taking it from a meandering tale to a set up and PUNCH!

    Kirk Jackson, Wellington

Group of nine smiling adults posing on a stage in front of dark curtains under purple lighting
Group of eight smiling adults posing with thumbs up in front of red theater curtains
Group of smiling people posing together in front of red theater curtains
Group of diverse performers posing together on a brightly lit stage
Group of nine people posing onstage in front of a silver backdrop and decorated Christmas tree.
Group of seven adults posing together on a stage in front of black curtains
Group of seven smiling adults posing together on a stage in front of blue-lit black curtains.
Group of seven adults posing on a theater stage with blue lighting; one person sits beside a table holding a beer.