Celebrating 41 Years: Laugh Factory Comedy Camp Empowers Youth Through Laughter

Laugh Factory Comedy Camp: Celebrating 41 Years of Empowering Youth

Established by Jamie Masada just five years after the opening of Laugh Factory Hollywood in 1979, the Laugh Factory Comedy Camp began as an innovative initiative aimed at helping at-risk youth cultivate self-esteem through the art of comedy. This summer, from June 28 to August 16, the 2025 edition of the camp marks its 41st anniversary, offering performance opportunities for 60 young participants aged 9 to 16.

The program has produced notable alumni who have gone on to achieve success in the entertainment industry, including Amanda Bynes, Nick Cannon, and Tiffany Haddish. Each year, participants benefit from the mentorship of seasoned comedians, with the likes of Tim Allen, Dane Cook, and Tiffany Haddish leading sessions this season.

A Legacy of Laughter and Learning

The Laugh Factory Comedy Camp is more than just a summer school for aspiring comedians; it serves as a supportive environment that has nurtured over 2,000 graduates to date. Each week, the program is tailored to meet the needs of the children, requiring a guardian's presence for each participant. This engaging structure culminates in a graduation ceremony that recognizes each child's journey, presenting them with a certificate and a small stipend of $200 for their final performance.

Jamie Masada emphasizes the vital skills gained beyond performance: "The most important thing we give all these kids is confidence—an invaluable asset that helps them communicate and connect with others effectively. Whether they go on to pursue comedy or other fields, the skills learned here will serve them well for a lifetime."

Notable Mentors and Impact

Over the years, the program has featured illustrious instructors who are legends in the comedy world. Icons like Richard Pryor, Rodney Dangerfield, and Jim Carrey have graced the camp as mentors, instilling a love for comedic expression in young minds. From stand-up routines to improv, participants learn various aspects of performance while also discovering the power of humor in overcoming life's challenges.

This year, in addition to industry stalwarts like George Wallace and comedy icons mentioned previously, the camp continues to focus on providing a safe and inclusive space for participants to express themselves. Masada’s future vision includes expanding the Comedy Camp to Laugh Factory locations in Chicago to further extend this positive influence.

Community and Social Impact

Beyond the showcases of talent, the Laugh Factory remains dedicated to supporting the comedy community and championing various social causes. The camp exemplifies this commitment by not only honing comedic talent but also fostering social responsibility among the youth. Established to prioritize positive engagement, the camp's ethos aligns with Laugh Factory's overarching goal of empowering individuals to make meaningful contributions to society.

Conclusion

With laughter as a backdrop, the Laugh Factory Comedy Camp continues to be a beacon of creativity and empowerment. As it celebrates 41 years of transformative experiences, the camp serves as a reminder of the positive impact comedy can have on lives—not just for those who want to entertain but for every child seeking a brighter future. As their slogan goes, the goal is to ensure that wherever the graduates go, they take a piece of that laughter and confidence with them.

To learn more about the Laugh Factory and the Comedy Camp, visit LaughFactory.com.