What this training is
This is distinct from improv. The material is scripted, and the training is about timing, the mechanics of a setup and a turn, playing comedy with full commitment rather than with a wink, and the specific tonal demands of multi-camera and single-camera television. Some classes concentrate on sitcom audition material because that is a defined LA booking category.
Who it suits
Actors who read as serious in comedy rooms, actors auditioning for half-hour television, and dramatic actors who lose comedic material through overplaying it.
What these listings show
Counted from the verified records on this page when the site was last built, on 2026-08-15.
- Published pricing. 16 of 21 publish enough pricing to place them in a band: $ (6), $$ (9), $$$$ (1). The other 5 do not publish rates, so you have to ask.
- Audit or trial. 9 of these 21 offer an audit or a trial class, which is the cheapest way to judge a teacher before committing.
- Audition required. 2 require an audition or placement before you can enroll, so plan for a step before the first class.
- Levels. 20 accept complete beginners and 20 run advanced work (95% and 95% of this list).
- Private coaching. 16 also offer one-to-one coaching alongside classes.
- Young actors. 16 of these serve kids or teens as well as adults.
- Where they are. Concentrated in Hollywood and Mid-City (7), Burbank and Glendale (4), North Hollywood and Studio City (4), across 8 areas of Los Angeles in total.
- Techniques taught. Most commonly Comedy technique (13), Eclectic / multi-technique (11), Improv and sketch (11).
- How established. 17 publish a founding year, the earliest 1969 and the most recent 2015.
How to compare them
Establish whether the class is scripted comedy or improv, because the two are sold with similar language and train different muscles. Ask whether the teacher writes or has worked in television comedy. Ask if you work on camera, since sitcom auditions are taped.