THE HOME FOR NASHVILLE COMEDY
THIRD COAST TRAINING CENTER
COMEDY CLASSES & WORKSHOPS
Comprised of teachers who have lived, performed, and taught comedy all over the country, the Third Coast Training Center exists to cultivate well-rounded, highly-trained performers in the areas of improv, sketch, stand-up, and acting.
2025
CLASS CALENDAR
Session 1
January 5 - March 3
(no class 1/20 & 2/9)
Session 2
March - May
Session 3
May - July
Session 4
August - September
Session 5
October - December
Our 6-level improv track teaches students the art of short- and longform improv, starting with the fundamentals and culminating in a run of shows on the Third Coast stage! Our classes are suited for both hobbyists and individuals serious about honing their craft. Whether you’re looking to learn a new artform, find a community, take on a fun challenge, gain confidence, or just laugh a lot, you’ll find what you’re looking for here at the Third Coast Training Center!
Take a dive into the art of stand-up comedy! Our stand-up track offers 2 levels of classes designed to let students develop their writing and performance skills, and get them actual stage time to perform for crowds! All of our classes are taught by experienced stand-up comedians, with frequent drop-ins from local talent who help you punch-up and perfect your set. Graduates will have a showcase at Third Coast and will get the opportunity to network and secure even more stage time in shows all around town!
Combining improv knowledge with the local spirit of Music City, our musical improv track teaches students of all musical backgrounds everything they need to know to improvise full musicals! Classes span from the basics of commitment and song structure to the creation of full shows and ensemble performances. Always a favorite of students, our musical track culminates with a run of shows completely created and performed by the graduating class!
Classes, camps and workshops for kids, tweens and teens! From improv to stand-up, check out Third Coast’s new offerings for our youngest comedians!
SCROLL DOWN FOR ELECTIVES, WORKSHOPS, & SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION
SPECIAL OFFERINGS
The Harold is the signature improv form created by Del Close, teacher and mentor of comedy legends Bill Murray, Tiny Fey, Amy Poehler, Stephen Colbert, and many others. Students will learn The Harold structure, including openings, scene work, game of the scene, and group games, that come together in the 3rd act to create a magical comedy experience for both cast and audience. Students will perform 25-30 minute Harolds both in class and in their class show. Taught by Nathan Clancy.
SHOWCASE: Saturday, March 8th at 5 p.m.
CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO REGISTER!
​
Face your fears, bust a move, support your comrades, and let your clever self fall away as you tap into your inner fool. Learn to meet the audience where they are, respond more honestly to the world around you, and express yourself with emotional depth, openness, and abandon by practicing tools that build a more physical and visual performance style, making the leap into surreal, absurd, imaginative, unconventional storytelling. You’ll fail big, win big, belly laugh a lot, and experience the pure joy of connection.
CLICK THE LINKS BELOW TO REGISTER!
Saturdays, 12:00-3:00 p.m. January 11
THIRD COAST TRAINING CENTER CLASS OVERVIEW
-
Click on class links for more information on class content, dates, and prices.
-
Tuition for all classes is non-refundable. All sales are final.
-
Missing more than two classes means you may be asked to repeat the Level. Students are encouraged to attend class on another night to gain the knowledge and skills missed, but doing so is for the student’s benefit and does not excuse the absence.
-
Level 1 is required unless you have recently graduated from a formal training program; if you have questions please email the training center.
-
Third Coast is a safe, creative, and collaborative environment; any behavior to the contrary will be dealt with immediately; if you need to make a report use our Anonymous Reporting Form here.
-
Teachers are subject to change without notice.
-
If you have any questions please email the training center for more information.
SCHOLARSHIPS
APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR SESSION 4 IS JULY 12TH!
The Third Coast Scholarship Fund provides one Level 1 scholarship to a student each session. In an effort to increase access and diversity on our stages, priority is given to groups underrepresented and historically excluded from improv, such as women, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ individuals.
The Jason Bain Memorial Scholarship Fund exists to assist Third Coast students in financial need by providing full and partial scholarships to improv classes at all levels. It was established in memory of Jason Bain, a graduate of the Third Coast Training Center.
Click the banner to learn more about our non-profit partner, Unscripted!