Learn stand-up comedy in Sydney with Tommy Dean
February 1 – 5, 2026
The Laugh Inn - Comedy Club
174 King Street,
Newtown
12 spots left
(Until early bird price ends)
PRICES:
Student and Concession – $500 + GST
Early Bird – $600 + GST (before January 2 only)
Bring-a-Mate-Rate – $900 + GST (2 people)
Full Fee – $800 + GST
Pre-Course: Online course access
Access the entire Hard Knock Knocks stand-up comedy curriculum ahead of the face-to-face course via your phone or PC. Narrated by the legendary comedian Greg Fleet, this online course includes videos examples, audio advice, activities and feedback to ensure you don't feel like a noob on day one. Learn more by clicking here.
Day 1: Sunday - The Basics, Finding Yourself, Joke Structure and Preparation
Get introduced to the basics of stand-up comedy and the jargon of the comedic industry before jumping into the deep end with your very own mini comedy set. Then, it's time to learn the 'Normal-Normal-Twist' technique, and developing your own original jokes, before trialling them on stage and giving them a polish.
Day 2: Monday - Generating Content and Building Confidence
Learn to gauge your audience and how to recognise and manage taboo topics while learning confidence building/fear smashing techniques. You’ll also get input on your set from our guest comedian, Tommy Dean, meet the other Hard Knock Knocks alumni and develop more of your original material.
Day 3: Tuesday - Delivery and Controlling a Room
Learn to write a strong open to your comedy set. Tonight students will also have the opportunity to refine some of their own writing, and learn about the Sydney open mic circuit, the Australian comedy festivals, such as Adelaide Fringe and Melbourne International Comedy Festivals, with Mandy Scotney.
Day 4: Wednesday - The Close, Graduation Preparation and Photo Headshots
Students receive portrait head and body shots.
Closing your set strong is this night's goal, as well as putting the extra polish on tomorrow night's graduation performance. You'll also model for professional headshots, that are vital for comedy event posters or even acting jobs!
Day 5: Thursday - Graduation Night and Performance
The moment you have been working toward! Perform your stand-up comedy routine in front of family and friends, conquer your fears and perform alongside three professional stand-up comedians. Watch previous graduation videos by clicking here.
AS SEEN ON TV!
Watch the cast of Channel 9's Travel Guides get coached at the Hard Knock Knocks comedy school in Melbourne.
Previous Comedy Coaches
Resident Comedy Coach - Brad Oakes
Comedian Brad Oakes is considered by many to be comedy royalty, and has over 30 years of stand-up comedy experience. Brad has performed on Australian classic comedy shows, which include The Comedy Company, Jimeoin, Full Frontal, and Hey Hey It’s Saturday. Brad also featured in the Hard Knock Knocks' comedy-drama, 'Is This Thing On?' Brad will also MC at the graduation, ensuring the audience is hot before the graduates perform. Learn more about Brad by clicking here.Celebrity Guest Comedian - Tommy Dean
Tommy Dean is an Arizona-born comedian who has called Australia home since 1992. Known for his smooth American drawl and sharp observational humour, Tommy brilliantly highlights the contrasts between his US upbringing and Aussie life. With warmth, wit, and impeccable timing, Tommy Dean delivers world-class comedy that resonates with every audience.
Local Talent - Mandy Scotney
Mandy Scotney is a Sydney-based comedian, speaker, and former CEO who brings sharp insight and big laughs to every stage. After a successful corporate career, she turned her focus to comedy and academia, now pursuing a PhD while performing across Australia’s top comedy venues. A 2023 RAW Comedy finalist, Mandy’s warm storytelling and witty reflections on work, well-being, and modern life make her a standout performer who connects deeply with audiences from the boardroom to the comedy club.
CONTACT US TODAY
Start your comedy journey today.
We are available to chat, any day of the week, via the chat button below or phone. Otherwise, we are contactable by email.