PRESS

"Humor helps reduce stress, and can boost mood. This program teaches children how to use humor to connect to others in a positive and engaging way. Learning to present entertaining material in a public forum can foster creativity, promote a positive self-image, and help the youngster gain insight into everyday events and interactions. Kudos to the program developers, and congratulations to the lucky kids who get the program."

~ Lois Shapiro 

Former Director of Behavioral Health Services 

New York State Office of Children and Family Services

“The comedy class gave a platform to the students that enjoy jokes and laughter. It also gave an outlet to those students that needed a place to relax and enjoy some structured humor” 

~ Milena Sandoval

Social Worker 

Southampton Elementary School

The comedy classes for kids that we have piloted with Bernie Furshpan and Lois Oliveira of the NY Hysterical Society align with the emphasis that SCC puts on offering quality education and programming related to performing arts to the community.  

We began offering the program to children in mid-2020, initially by Zoom and subsequently in person. The classes were developed to meet education standards for social emotional learning, communications, and career education. Research supports the statement that “laughter IS the best medicine”. In a few weeks, children learn about comedy, develop their own jokes, practice speaking to an audience and learn how to use humor to reduce stress and tension with friends and at home with family.  

We have received compliments from mental health experts, teachers, families, and children for making the program available. Tuition is low and we offer full and partial scholarships for the program which suits students ages 8 – 13, and 14 – 17.

~ Kirsten C. Lonnie  

Executive Director  

Southampton Cultural Center

"This is so important a time, when children across the board, are struggling with mental health."  

~ Ruth Allan

Senior Humanitarian Affairs Officer

UK

"What an amazing experience you gave the kids. They were all so impressive and we are so grateful. Our family all loved it- even from England. So fun." 

~ Diana Heather, Parent

"Thank you so much, Bernie! What a great class. It was so much fun seeing my daughter get excited writing down material, and playing around with it. Thank you again for your tireless work and dedication to the kids." 

~ Chad Vossen, Parent

"Thank you, Bernie, for making a positive difference in my child’s life and I hope this program will continue to grow.  For any parent considering a comedy class taught by Bernie, please, think no further.  Sometimes we don’t know the effect we can have on others.  Thank you again for being such a positive influence on my child.  What a gift." 

~ Linda Nelson, Parent

"I love it!!!! The children are precious and I loved getting to see them in action. I love how you have adapted it for the classroom. Congrats on its success!

~ Lizzie Sider

Award-winning singer/songwriter