GET OFF YOUR PHONE AND INTO THE MOMENT!

At Crossroads Comedy Theater, we offer classes in Longform Improv, Comedy Writing, and Stand-up— with new stuff popping up all the time. Whether you’re just starting out or brushing up your skills, our awesome instructors will guide you every step of the way in a chill, supportive, and seriously fun environment.

We also bring in amazing guest teachers from Indy’s thriving arts scene (and sometimes beyond!) to mix things up and keep you on your toes.

Why stick to just one style? We’re all about cross-training. Improv can make your stand-up sharper. Sketch can give your improv more structure. Stand-up can help your writing come alive. It’s all connected—and the more you try, the better you get.

And hey—you don’t have to be chasing the spotlight to benefit from our classes. We’ll help you build confidence, speak up more, collaborate better, think on your feet, and meet cool new people. Also? You’ll laugh. A lot.

IMPROV, SKETCH WRITING, STAND-UP COMEDY CLASSES
Crossroads Philly performers, Adam Steiger and Jacob Todd, in an improv scene from Study Hall: Comedy Inspired By Lectures. PHOTO: Channing Billups

COMEDY WRITING

Have an idea for a sketch, a sitcom, a screenplay, or a character you cannot stop thinking about? Our Comedy Writing classes help you take the funny ideas in your head and turn them into something structured, sharable, and ready for the page or stage.
 
Whether you are interested in writing for sketch comedy, developing a television pilot, crafting scenes, building characters, or exploring the mechanics of what makes something funny, this program gives you a supportive place to start. With growing tracks in Sketch Comedy Writing and TV Writing, and more focus areas on the way, our Comedy Writing program is designed to help you build creative skills while discovering your own comedic point of view. Because these are writing-focused courses, we are also able to offer both in-person and online options.
 
You do not need previous writing experience or professional aspirations to take any of our beginner classes. Whether you have pages of ideas or have never written a scene before, our instructors will guide you through the process, help you develop your voice, and show you how fun it can be to bring your comedic imagination to life.

CLICK FOR COMEDY WRITING CLASSES

IMPROV

Want to get out of your head, think on your feet, and have more fun saying yes? Our improv classes are a welcoming place to play, connect, and discover what can happen when you stop overthinking and start trusting yourself.
 
Crossroads Comedy Theater offers longform improv courses, a style that is open, collaborative, and free-flowing. Whether you want a fun creative outlet, valuable personal or professional skills, or a challenge as a performer, our improv program gives you room to grow at your own pace.
 
Improv is not just for people who want to be on stage. Special classes like Improv for Educators, Improv for Everyday Use, Improv for Lawyers, and more focus on real-world benefits like communication, confidence, adaptability, collaboration, active listening, and creative problem-solving.
 
Along with core classes and electives, we offer guest instructor workshops online and in person, giving students more ways to explore different styles and approaches. No experience is necessary, just bring your curiosity, willingness to play, and an open mind.
n mind.

CLICK FOR ALL IMPROV CLASSES

STAND-UP COMEDY

Ever wonder if that funny thought in your head could become an actual joke? Whether you’re the person who always makes your friends laugh, someone who wants to try something bold and new, or a total beginner who is simply curious about comedy, our stand-up classes give you a supportive place to start.
 
You’ll learn how to turn observations, opinions, and personal experiences into original material, then shape those ideas into a set that sounds like you. Along the way, our instructors will help you build confidence, find your comic voice, and prepare for a class-ending showcase in front of family, friends, and supportive strangers.
 
You do not need to have performance aspirations to take a stand-up class. This is a chance to get out of your comfort zone, explore your creativity, meet new people, and discover just how much fun it can be to make a room laugh.

CLICK FOR STAND-UP CLASSES

STORTELLING

Have a story you always tell at dinner, on road trips, or when someone says, “Wait, what happened?” Storytelling classes are for anyone who wants to turn real-life moments into something compelling, funny, honest, and memorable.
 
Through guided exercises, feedback, and plenty of practice, you’ll learn how to find the heart of your story, shape it for an audience, and bring it to life with your own voice and point of view. Our instructors will help you move from a loose memory or idea to a polished personal story, ready to share in a supportive class-ending showcase.
 
You do not need to think of yourself as a performer to take a storytelling class. These courses are perfect for anyone who wants to become a more confident communicator, explore their creativity, connect with new people, and make everyday experiences feel meaningful and unforgettable.

CLICK FOR STORYTELLING CLASSES

ACTING 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. 

NONE ENROLLING

COURSE CATALOG

Below is an up to date list of all the courses that we can offer. Here you will be able to see the various paths you can take as you journey through our education program. As you will see we have more to offer than meets the eye above.

Click the plus sign to view the course description and the accompanying info such as prerequisites, course length, and more. If you have any questions you can reach out to us at indyclasses@xroadscomedy.com or call/text us at 317-203-9497.

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.

Don’t see this course scheduled? Click here to express your interest and we may offer it again soon!

TYPE: Core | PREREQUISITE: Sketch 1 | COURSE LENGTH: 6 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: Two Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Various
SKETCH 2: STYLES & FORMATS. 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.

Don’t see this course scheduled? Click here to express your interest and we may offer it again soon!

TYPE: Core | PREREQUISITE: None | COURSE LENGTH: 6 Weeks, Two Hours Each Week | INSTRUCTOR: Various

SKETCH 3: COLLABORATIVE WRITING. Step into the collaborative heart of sketch comedy! In this level, you’ll learn how to pitch your ideas with confidence, work creatively within small and larger groups, and sharpen your sketches through rewriting. You’ll practice giving and receiving constructive feedback and discovering how the best ideas grow when writers build on each other’s work. By the end, you’ll master the art of revision – making your sketches clearer, funnier, and ready for performance or production.

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

TYPE: Core | PREREQUISITE: None | COURSE LENGTH: 10 Weeks, Two Hours Each Week | INSTRUCTOR: Various

SKETCH 4: FROM PAGE TO STAGE. 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.

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

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.

Don’t see this course scheduled? Click here to express your interest and we may offer it again soon!

“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

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.

Don’t see this course scheduled? Click here to express your interest and we may offer it again soon!

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.

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 via Zoom.

Don’t see this course scheduled? Click here to express your interest and we may offer it again soon!

“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

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.

Don’t see this course scheduled? Click here to express your interest and we may offer it again soon!

“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

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!

Don’t see this course scheduled? Click here to express your interest and we may offer it again soon!

TYPE: Core | PREREQUISITE: None | COURSE LENGTH: 8 Weeks | 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 eight 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 Indy area. Enroll now and start becoming a better you. This class includes free admission to live shows at Red Curb Comedy in Avon for the duration of the class as well as an optional class performance to celebrate your improv journey.

Don’t see this course scheduled? Click here to express your interest and we may offer it again soon!

TYPE: Core | PREREQUISITE: Improv 2 | COURSE LENGTH: 8 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 2 Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Various
DESCRIPTION: This eight 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.

Don’t see this course scheduled? Click here to express your interest and we may offer it again soon!

TYPE: Core | PREREQUISITE: Improv 1 | COURSE LENGTH: 8 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 2 hours | INSTRUCTOR: Various
DESCRIPTION: This eight 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. 

Don’t see this course scheduled? Click here to express your interest and we may offer it again soon!

TYPE: Core | PREREQUISITE: Improv 3 | COURSE LENGTH: 8 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 2 Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Mike Marbach
DESCRIPTION: Get ready to dive into the most famous improv format of all time – The Harold! This eight-week, performance level course is entirely focused on the Harold – a fast-paced, ensemble-driven structure that challenges and sharpens every improv skill you’ve gained in Improv 1, 2, and 3. You’ll flex your muscles in scenework, group games, second beats, the game of the scene, character work, and more. It’s like a full-body workout for your brain. This course is taught by experienced iO Chicago Harold performer and Crossroads founder, Mike Marbach, and includes two class performances.

Don’t see this course scheduled? Click here to express your interest and we may offer it again soon!

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!

Don’t see this course scheduled? Click here to express your interest and we may offer it again soon!

TYPE: Elective | PREREQUISITE: Improv 4 | COURSE LENGTH: 8 Weeks | CLASS LENGTH: 2 Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Various
DESCRIPTION: This eight week, performance level course will delve deep into the preferred style of improv for Crossroads Comedy Theater shows – playing with premise! This course will prepare students for improvising from any source material to create clear and natural connections in the show and outside of it for the audience. 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.

Don’t see this course scheduled? Click here to express your interest and we may offer it again soon!

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 eight 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.

Don’t see this course scheduled? Click here to express your interest and we may offer it again soon!

TYPE: Workshop | PREREQUISITE: Improv 3 | COURSE LENGTH: One Day | CLASS LENGTH: 3 Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Mike Marbach
DESCRIPTION: This one day workshop for people with moderate improv experience will focus on the improv move known as the tap-out (or tap-in). Students will learn how to identify what is fun within a scene and how to use that fun to tap-in and how to sustain that fun and turn it into a tag run. By the end of this workshop students will understand how useful taps can be to frame the game, clear up confusion, heighten the scene, and create momentum within the show.

Don’t see this course scheduled? Click here to express your interest and we may offer it again soon!

TYPE: Workshop | PREREQUISITE: Improv 3 | COURSE LENGTH: One Day | CLASS LENGTH: 3 Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Mike Marbach
DESCRIPTION: This one day workshop for people with moderate improv experience will cover one of the core improv techniques at Crossroads Comedy Theater – Playing with premise. Students will learn how to absorb and pick apart a 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 that play with premise and how to work together with their scene partners to keep the fun going.

Don’t see this course scheduled? Click here to express your interest and we may offer it again soon!

TYPE: Workshop | PREREQUISITE: Improv 2 | COURSE LENGTH: One Day | CLASS LENGTH: 3 Hours | INSTRUCTOR: Mike Marbach
DESCRIPTION: Crossroads founder, Mike Marbach, will draw on his experiences studying with several members of the famous iO Chicago improv group The Reckoning, co-creating and directing the original longform improv format, Punchline!, and playing in the improv duo Mishigas with globe-trotting improviser Kristen Schier, to go over various ways to use sound, motion, space, time, silence, and each other to create and sustain characters and scenes that are truly improvised. Students will be pushed out of their head and into the moment, learning what it’s like to improvise with an “organic engine.” This is gonna get weird. Come ready to play!

Don’t see this course scheduled? Click here to express your interest and we may offer it again soon!

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!

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

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.

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

CROSSROADS E-GIFT CARDS

Crossroads Comedy Theater Training Center Gift Card

We are excited to now offer Crossroads Comedy Theater Gift cards! Now you can give the gift of one of our amazing classes to someone you love at any time!

It’s true these are “comedy” classes, but the skills you or your loved one will learn go beyond the stage and page. We’re biased, but we do believe our classes make great gifts. In addition to meeting new people and having fun, our students have also: improved communication, increased self-confidence, become more positive thinkers, explored their creative sides, made new friends, embraced collaboration, and so much more. 

CLICK HERE TO BUY A CROSSROADS GIFT CARD

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.

Crossroads Indy does not have its own home just yet. We are brand new to the area and are taking our time so people get to know us and so we can get to know the community.

In person Crossroads classes are currently held at Union Indy at 525 S Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46225 (map). Union Indy is a coworking space in beautiful downtown Indianapolis. As we are downtown, we do recommend students keep this in mind and leave enough time to find parking to make it to class on time.

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

Crossroads Indy currently offers classes in Improv including classes for beginners and more advanced improvisers. We also have classes in Comedy Writing including Sketch Comedy Writing, Intro to Comedy Writing for Stage, TV, and Film, and Intro to Pilot Writing. The Comedy Writing courses are through our buddy Rich Talarico who has written for SNL, the Tonight Show, Key & Peele, and more.

We plan on adding our Stand-up Program to Crossroads Indy soon. Acting, Clowning, Musical Improv, and more will follow in time.

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 stage and the page to 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 improve 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 - 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!

Our main ticketing partner, Fourth Wall Tickets, accepts most major credit cards. We have expanded options via invoice including Cash App, Apple Pay, ACH Transfer, Crossroads Gift Cards, and AfterPay available via invoice. If needed we can also accept checks or bags of cash with dollar signs on them.

Want to split your tuition into smaller payments? We got your back! Crossroads offers multiple payment options to make classes more accessible, so you don’t have to pay everything up front.

Installment Plan
Our most popular option. Pay your tuition in four equal payments spread over six weeks. This option is available during the early enrollment period only. To use it, select “Pay With Payment Plan” at checkout. Please note that all installment plans include processing fees.

Split Plan
If the early enrollment installment plan has ended, you can still choose to split your tuition into two payments. Pay 50% at checkout and the remaining 50% will be deducted the day before your first class. This option is available after the early enrollment discount ends and before the class start date. Processing fees apply.

Flex Plan (AfterPay)
Missed the installment plan window or need a bit more flexibility? We offer payment plans through AfterPay by request. You will be asked which Improv class you are enrolling in, and once payment is made, we will follow up to complete your registration. This option requires a short application and a $15 fee to cover the added cost of offering this plan.  terms and fees apply

If you have questions about which option is right for you, or if you’re not sure what’s currently available for a specific class, feel free to reach out to us before enrolling at indyclasses@xroadscomedy.com.. We’re always happy to help. 

You can skip Improv 1 at Crossroads Indy if you have taken courses through another reputable training location (Crossroads Philly, ComedySportz, The Second City, iO Chicago, The Annoyance, etc). In some cases, courses you have taken in college can also count. If you are unsure, email your question to indyclasses@xroadscomedyindy.com, detail your experience, and we will let you know where you can start in our program.

We do allow students to enroll that may have to miss a class or two for any reason. It's no replacement for actually being in class, but we do offer a recap of the class along with brief  takeaways for the week. See our attendance policy in the next question.

It boils down to this: treat people with respect. Crossroads does not tolerate hateful, discriminatory, or disruptive behavior. Any behavior that undermines a respectful, inclusive, and productive learning environment may result in removal from the class without a refund.
 
We understand that comedy often involves pulling from personal experience, taking creative risks, and exploring challenging material. That does not excuse behavior that shuts others down, creates an unsafe environment, or interferes with the learning of the group. We strive to be inclusive of all experiences and recognize that we are always learning. Our goal is to maintain a classroom that is safe, respectful, and supportive of creative risk-taking and vulnerability for students and instructors alike.

The use of recreational drugs, illegal drugs, or alcohol is not permitted during class. Attending class under the influence, or behavior impacted by prior substance use that disrupts the class, may result in removal.
 
Please note that individual instructors may add additional policies specific to their course and their experience in specific classes, which students are expected to follow. Violations of these policy addendums may result in removal from class.

We totally understand that life happens and things can come up that cause you to miss class or run late. That said, we do track attendance and punctuality and take both seriously. For 8-week courses, students are allowed to miss up to 2 classes and still meet the attendance requirement. However, which classes you miss, along with your overall progress in the course, may affect whether you perform in the class show and/or advance through our program.  If you miss 3 or more classes, or are consistently late, we’ll address it on a case-by-case basis. In those situations, outcomes may include: not performing in the class show, not advancing through our program, or being removed from the course. Our goal is to be flexible while still making sure everyone has a strong experience and is set up for success. If two or more of the same course are happening concurrently, make-up options will be opened up.

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 refund is available to students that withdraw at least seven days from the first class date. During the seven days leading up to class we offer a credit for a future course. After the start of class no refunds or credits will be offered. To request a refund or credit that is inline with this policy please email indyclasses@xroadscomedy.com.

Once a class has begun no refunds or credits will be available.

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.

We will be having auditions at some point, but there is no timeline just yet. We are brand new to Indianapolis and it will take some time for people to get to know us as for us to get to know the people of Indy. We hope that some of the people that take our classes are looking to perform as well and we will cast our shows from that pool.

All Crossroads Comedy Theater class sales are final. We plan our classes carefully to ensure small class sizes, fair instructor pay, and a strong experience for every student. Because of this, we are unable to offer refunds once a class is booked. Please look overall class dates, read over policies, and ask any questions prior to enrolling. If you would like to try a class before enrolling please check out our class drop-in schedule. We do not allow anyone to audit our classes that are not enrolled. 

In rare cases Crossroads may offer a credit toward a future class. If you enroll and something unexpected comes up, you must notify us at least 24 hours before the first class to be considered for a refund or credit. Requests made less than 24 hours before the first class meeting are not eligible for refunds or credits. This includes same-day notifications. 

Please note:

  • A credit is is equal to the value of the enrollment paid, not a class for class swap.
  • Credits are not guaranteed and are offered at Crossroads’ discretion
  • Credits are not refunds and cannot be exchanged for cash
  • Credits must be used within three class sessions of the original class start date
  • Credits are non-transferable unless authorized by Crossroads

Any class credit issued is equal to the dollar amount paid for the original enrollment, not a class-for-class swap.

  • Credits may be applied toward any eligible future class
  • If the new class costs more, the student is responsible for the difference
  • If the new class costs less, the remaining balance is held
  • Class credits may not be applied to workshops, drop-ins, or special events unless explicitly stated or authorized

No refunds, transfers, or credit options will be available once class has started. Refunds will not be available to anyone removed from a class for violations of our code of conduct policy.

Classes and shows run as scheduled whenever it is safe to do so. The safety of our students, instructors, and staff is our top priority. In the event of severe weather or other unsafe travel conditions, Crossroads may cancel a class, delay a class, or move a class online. We appreciate your flexibility and understanding as we work to balance consistency, safety, and the quality of your experience.

Decisions are based on local forecasts, venue conditions, and general travel safety. If a class is affected by weather or related conditions, updates will be communicated to enrolled students as soon as possible via email, text, and social media.

When a schedule change occurs, make-up plans will be communicated as soon as possible. In some cases, this may take a few days due to venue availability and scheduling logistics. When feasible, our preferred approach is to either add additional time to each remaining week or add a week to the end of the course so students receive the full instructional experience. If that is not possible, an alternative plan will be determined. Depending on availability, students may be offered the option to attend a make-up class in another section or receive a class credit equal to the value of the missed session. All make-up decisions are made by Crossroads and shared with enrolled students. While we aim to choose an option that works for as many people as possible, attendance at make-up sessions cannot be guaranteed for every schedule. If a disrupted course has a performance planned, we will make all reasonable efforts to make that happen, though it may not be possible in every case.

In all situations, we encourage students to make the decision that best supports their safety. If weather before or after class makes travel unsafe, choosing not to attend is completely acceptable. Students may miss up to two classes in an eight-week course and still satisfy the attendance requirement.

Cancellations or schedule changes due to weather or other circumstances beyond our control do not automatically qualify for refunds. We will make reasonable efforts to complete the course through rescheduling, make-up sessions, or alternative instructional solutions. Class credits are not refunds, have no cash value, and may be subject to expiration or other reasonable limitations.

If an instructor experiences an unexpected issue and is unable to attend class, Crossroads will make every reasonable effort to secure a substitute before canceling or delaying the session. If a substitute cannot be secured, we will follow the same communication and make-up planning process outlined above.

Our improv courses include an optional performance at the end of the course. These performances are with our theater partner, Red Curb Comedy in Avon. That is all we have right now. We are working to build up a base of strong performers before we start doing shows on our own. Red Curb Comedy occasionally has auditions and as a Crossroads student we will make sure you are prepared. There are also auditions for other teams and shows throughout the city.

You can email any questions to us at hello@xroadscomedyindy.com. You can also call/text us at 317-203-9452.

We do not allow anyone to audit any of our 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.

We know it happens. A friends comes to town and you are faced with a choice: Miss the class you love so much or leave your friend at your house to root through all your personal stuff. Unfortunately, it's a choice you have to make. We do not allow anyone that is not enrolled in our classes to attend. This is a company wide policy and not something that is up to an individual instructor.

Though students are permitted to miss two classes and still satisfy our attendance requirement, we do offer make-up classes are available only when we are running two of the same course concurrently. This is a courtesy that we offer when both space in class and schedules permit. Make-up classes are not guaranteed. Below are the guidelines around requesting a make-up class:

  • You must request a make-up in advance of the class you will miss. 
  • Make-up classes requested after your scheduled class has started will not be accommodated.
  • Make-up spots are limited to 2 per class.
  • Make-up classes are limited to 2 per student.
  • Successful make-up classes satisfy attendance requirements as they pertain to taking future courses, participating in the class showcase, etc.
  • Please submit one make-up class request at a time.

To request a make-up class for Crossroads Indy please use this form.