Ese Atawo brings bold, loud, and spontaneous comedy shaped by a theatre background and a deep love for original, powerful performers like Whoopi Goldberg, Debra Wilson, and Maya Rudolph. Her favourite creation is Lil Clitty, a character born in 2018 from her passion for hip-hop and curiosity about how female MCs are depicted—a persona she loves so much that her Instagram operates under that handle. Coming from theatre, Atawo must do a body roll down and stretch before hitting the stage, then connect with her Seasoned comedy collective to pour love on each other before performing.
How would you describe your comedy style?
I’d describe my comedy as bold, loud and spontaneous.
Who are some of your influences?
Growing up, I loved watching Whoopi Goldberg. She had a flare that was her own, and she was such an inspiration. As my comedy evolved into more character-focused comedy, I fell head over heels for Debra Wilson (Mad TV) as well as Maya Rudolph (SNL). They were original, powerful and of course, hilarious.
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
Outside of the names I mentioned earlier, Bernie Mac was also a favourite of mine. How unapologetically he was. His Def Jam Comedy spot sealed my love and affirmation for him.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
Ohhhh…well, I’m so happy and elated that more people are recognizing the brilliance that is Regina Hall. All the Scary Movies were a staple in my home, solely for her. Not only is she a wonderful dramatic actor, but her comedic timing and ease are so beautiful to watch.
What is your pre-show ritual?
Coming from a theatre background, I must do a body roll down and stretch before hitting the stage. Boring, I know, but I also connect with the rest of Seasoned. Just pouring love on each other before we hit that stage.
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
I would have to say the Revue Stage on Granville Island. Coming from theatre, the stage is so big and wide that all my beautiful characters have space to be their crazy selves!
What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?
Lil Clitty! She’s my baby, and I love her very much. She’s a character I created in 2018. She came from my love of hip-hop music and my curiosity in how female MCs are depicted.
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?
I would have to say social media. At least for the introduction of finding new comedians, it’s following everything they do and watching all their YouTube clips, specials or movies. Just consuming all their content. Wow, just realized I’m a binge consumer.
Tell us a joke about your city.
People say it rains every day in Vancouver. That’s not true—the sun comes out daily… specifically, during your afternoon yawn, when you’re nowhere near a window.
Where can we follow you?
You can follow me on Instagram.
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?
My brothers in improv. Kevin Vidal, Ronald Dario and stand-up Sasha Mark and Sasha Hayden.
