Good Audition/Stand-Up Classes Around New York?

[TheGreatZamino]

Hello folks,

I've been doing improv through the UCB for the better part of about two years now and I was hoping to make a real big push towards taking more classes and honing my skills through both the UCB and other improv theatres. I would love to learn stand-up through a class in order to soften the blow when I finally get a chance to do an open-mic night. To top it all off, I would definitely like to learn how to properly audition for roles, whether they be commercial, comedic, or dramatic.

Aside from the Commercial Audition classes available at the UCB, does anyone know of any classes that are great for learning to audition? Does anyone know any classes that are great for learning stand-up?

Any input would be appreciated.

 

[MichelleD]

I run a couple of open mics that are friendly - www.superegocomedy.com

You can email me at info AT michelledobrawsky dot com with any questions about classes.

 

[mikelibrarian]

I'll attest to the friendliness of Michelle's open mikes.

 

[timmybono]

the best way to learn how to audition is to go to auditions...get a backstage and go to open calls, (i recommend non union if you aren't equity cause you will be seen at those)....read audition books, (Audition by Michael Shurtleff, The art of auditioning by rob decina) but realize there is no "right" way to audition... a lot of times they look for stuff you have no control over...with commercials and what not, you can get better on camera, but for that, you need to get on camera..do student films, film yourself and watch the tapes, see how you look on camera, what angles are better/worse? is your profile stronger on one side...is there something you do with your neck that makes your face look weird etc etc etc....

stand up is the same...you can take classes, but it comes down to YOU....just start doing it...you will only hone those skills by getting them...michelle's mikes are very friendly..try going to www.gigglechick.com and see what other ones are happening, get up anywhere.....do what you think is funny. you will teach yourself very quickly how to be funny and get funny...just DO IT!

 

[TheGreatZamino]

Thanks a lot for the advice so far. I kind of turn to classes to help me conquer my fear. Once I'm able to analyze things academically, they lose the power to scare me. But I think it might finally be time to just dive in without the floaties. I'm definitely going to see about going to some open casting calls and open mics.