Get ready to dive into the hilarious and insightful world of Ryan Lachance, a comedian whose style is as unique as his perspective. Join us as we explore Ryan’s story—his inspirations, including the legendary Billy Connolly and his late friend Matt Billon, his pre-show rituals, and his favourite performances. From his cherished local comedy club, Yuk Yuks Surrey, to the groundbreaking all-disabled performer show at the Halifax Comedy Festival, Ryan’s journey is filled with memorable moments and laughter.
How would you describe your comedy style?
My comedy style is very much stream of consciousness. Growing up I never learned how to write because of my physical disability, so i learnt to just be funny on the spot. I also talk about my perspective of being a person with a disability in today’s society along with general thoughts and feelings that are funny to me.
Who are some of your influences?
I fell in love with stand-up comedy because of Billy Connolly. When I was a kid, I used to listen to his albums over and over again committing them to memory. I also used to watch a lot of stand-up comedy late-night TV shows and comedy specials. I always had a really great sense of humour, and I wanted to share my thoughts as a performer like they would on TV. My other major influence is my late friend Matt Billon. In my opinion, he was one of the most underrated and most talented comedians that this country has ever seen. I spent over 14 years on the road with him performing as his opening act and sometimes headliner act. He taught me everything I know about standup comedy. I miss him every day. I would highly recommend anyone who loves stand-up comedy or is thinking about becoming a comic to check out his material online.
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
My favourite comedians growing up were Billy Connolly, George Carlin, Eddie Murphy and Robin Williams and Richard Pryor.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
MO Amar, Nate Bargatze and Adam Sandler are my favourite celebrity comedians. My favourite local comics are Elyott Ryan, Jessica Pigeau, Syd Bosel, Randii Andii, Gavin Clarkson and Chris Gaskin to name a few. Honestly, there are too many to mention.
What is your pre-show ritual?
My pre-show ritual comes in two parts. I prefer to get to the show early so I can watch the crowd come in and gauge what I can get away with, and what type of demographic they are. The second part is listening to the song Spoon Man by Soundgarden and I having a friend slap me as hard as they can and tell me to shut up and be funny.
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
My favorite place to perform is my local club Yuk Yuks Surrey. The reason is because the staff at the club always make me feel welcome and the crowds are always a lot of fun. I also enjoyed performing at the Halifax Comedy Festival for the first time in 2023 because I took part in and all-disabled performer comedy show and it was the first of its kind.
What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?
My favorite joke is ‘Never trust a guy in a wheelchair with dirty shoes. They are always up to something.’ I like the joke because it really allows people to come into my world.
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?
I use YouTube, multiple streaming sites and YouTube music.
Tell us a joke about your city.
White Rock is the only city I’ve ever been to where I have to move for someone on the bus and I’m in a wheelchair.
Do you have anything to promote right now?
I run a local comedy show that happens every 3rd Thursday of the month in White Rock It’s at the Galaxie Public House. I also host a podcast with my friend Chris Gaskin called ‘Rolling Thunder’ and it can be found on YouTube. We also have a spring tour in the books where we will be travelling throughout Western Canada. The tour will be called Rolling Thunder.
Where can we follow you?
Website | Facebook | Podcast | Instagram | TikiTok
My comedy album can be found on all music streaming sites. It is called ‘best of BC Rootin and Tootin.’ It was recorded in February of 2023.
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?
Everyone should check out Randii Andii. She is a very talented musical comedian who blends her sense of humour with her amazing singing voice. She definitely has a show that’s not to be missed.
