Comedian Betty Tsehai is Los Angeles-based now, but she first got her start on stand-up stages here in Vancouver. There’s a certain lighter, gentler Canadian touch to Betty’s thoughtful, observational humour. It’s nice to think that her roots here have equipped her to view Los Angeles with an outsider’s fresh perspective. Every day events from her life become her material, giving her the chance to delve into the ordinary and explore what about the banal she finds so thought-provoking. We chatted with Betty to learn more about her favourite comedians, whether she performs on an empty stomach, and why she thinks Los Angelinos need to touch grass.
How would you describe your comedy style?
I like pointing out the absurd in the mundane. I pull from my own life, or experiences that make me go “mmmmm. That’s weird.” Or, I hyperfixate on something, and go “why is this normal?” or “I did this…” I am going to talk about that on stage most likely.
Who are some of your influences?
Zainab Johnson, Lisa Kudrow, Larry David.
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
Conan O’Brien was my favourite when I was a kid. I would stay up to watch Late Night. His monologues and bits just absolutely destroyed me.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
I love Marie Faustin.
What is your pre-show ritual?
I’ll eat before I do a show. I’ll make a meal, drink a lot of water, and make a cup of coffee depending on how I am feeling. I’ll make a rundown of my material for the show. I’ll go through it as much as I can beforehand.
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
Lately, it’s Whammy Analog Media in LA. It’s a great space. It’s a microtheatre/ VHS store, and so you’re surrounded by all of these tapes.
What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?
It’s this bit about my hairdresser, Marti. She’s one of my favourite people ever. She’s always dropping gems. I have a bit about how she tells these insane and brilliant stories while she’s doing my hair, and acts like it’s nothing. So casual and smooth. Always a highlight.
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?
I like going to shows. When I do open mics, I also find out about comedians that way. Also podcasts!
Tell us a joke about your city.
I wrote something about how people in LA need to touch grass and drink more water. This was mostly because I was experiencing so much road rage right when I moved here. But now I get it.
Do you have anything to promote right now?
Catch me doing comedy around town (LA), or around town (Vancouver) when I visit.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?
