Dive into Standup with Comedian Mu Cuzzo!

About the Class:

Intro to Stand-Up Comedy: From First Joke to Final Showcase

Ever wondered what it takes to step up to the mic and make a room full of strangers laugh? This course is your launchpad into the world of stand-up comedy—whether you’re chasing the spotlight or just looking to stretch your creative muscles.

Over the course of this class, you'll explore the history and theory of stand-up, learn about the serious business behind the laughs, and develop the tools to craft and perform your own original material. Through writing exercises, group feedback, and live rehearsals, you'll focus on building a tight set, finding your comedic voice, and learning how to connect with an audience.

The class culminates in a live stand-up showcase, where you’ll take the stage and perform your set for a real audience.

No prior experience is required—just a sense of humor and a willingness to take risks. Whether you’re aiming for the comedy club or looking to build confidence, this class will help you turn your thoughts into punchlines and your stories into laughs.

Meet Your Instructor: Mu Cuzzo

Comedian. Producer. Community Builder.

Mu Cuzzo brings real-world grit and experience to the stage—and to the classroom. A respected voice in Virginia’s regional comedy scene, Mu’s path to stand-up wasn’t traditional. After a successful run in hip hop (including collaborations with Rick Ross and Young Dro), he shifted gears in 2017 and has since built a reputation as both a fearless comic and a generous producer who helps others shine.

He’s the creator of the Positive Vibes Only Festival and a regular host of open mics, showcases, and community-centered comedy events across Richmond and Petersburg. With over seven years in the game, Mu knows what it takes to be funny—and more importantly, what it takes to be heard.

In this class, Mu brings his no-nonsense, real-talk style to help you develop your voice, understand how to build a set, and navigate the stand-up world with authenticity. He’ll share what he’s learned from doing rooms of all types, how to write with honesty, and how to own the mic from your very first joke.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up, Mu Cuzzo will teach you how to be the business, not just part of it.

Stand-Up Student Showcase – Thursday, October 30th

As part of ArtoberVA—Richmond CultureWorks’ month-long celebration of the arts—students from the Intro to Stand-Up Comedy class will take the stage at CSz Richmond Theater to perform their original sets in a live showcase! This performance is the culmination of weeks of writing, rehearsing, and refining, and it’s your chance to share your voice, your jokes, and your journey with a live audience.

ArtoberVA celebrates the power of creativity to connect and uplift communities, and this showcase is a proud part of that mission. Invite your friends, bring your supporters, and be part of Richmond’s vibrant arts scene!