Tragedy Plus Time: Comedian Reza Peyk

Reza Peyk is a Vancouver-based stand-up comedian who pulls no punches and makes no apologies. Drawing from personal experience, social commentary, and the beautifully chaotic mess of everyday life, Reza has built a reputation for saying the quiet parts loud — in the tradition of his heroes Bill Burr, Dave Chappelle, and Patrice O’Neal. From open mics to his home club at the Underground Comedy Club in Vancouver, he’s been quietly becoming one of the more compelling voices on the Western Canada circuit.

Reza Peyk

How would you describe your comedy style?

I draw from personal experiences and do a bit of social commentary. Little unfiltered probably!

Who are some of your influences?

I’ve always been drawn to comedians who can be honest and sharp without losing the audience. Guys like Bill Burr, Dave Chappelle and Patrice O’Neal. They all have a way of saying things people are thinking but aren’t comfortable saying out loud. I also take a lot of influence from real life-everyday interactions, relationships, and the chaos of normal life tend to shape most of what I write.

Who was your favourite comedian growing up?

Chris Rock in the mid 90s/early 2000s was a problem! Bring The Pain erra.

Who is your favourite comedian now?

Some incredible comic in an open mic somewhere crushing in front of an audience of 6. That guy/girl is my favourite right now.

What is your pre-show ritual?

Drugs. Lots of drugs(just kidding). Keep loose. Little moment of silence maybe before going on, and we’re good money!

What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?

Underground Comedy Club in Vancouver, BC. The venue is incredibly intimate and folks are eager to watch comedy. It’s my home-club in Vancouver and it’s a special place. There’s magic in there!

What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?

It’s a bit about being admitted to the psych ward. Feels therapeutic to have strangers also agree that you’re nuts.

What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?

That would have to be at the clubs or any venue that puts on a comedy show.

Tell us a joke about your city.

So I was walking down East Hastings right??? That’s all I got so far 🙁

Do you have anything to promote right now?

Yes, I’m doing Western Canada Tour called Mask Off. Cities include:

May 7 – Vancouver, BC – Underground Comedy Club
May 15/16 – Edmonton, AB – Yuk Yuk’s
June 12 – Calgary, AB – Yuk Yuk’s
Tickets for all cities on sale now at https://linktr.ee/rezapeyk

Where can we follow you?

Instagram would be best

PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?

Niki Wright

 

About Emilea Semancik 368 Articles
Emilea Semancik was born in North Vancouver. Emilea has always always wanted to work as a freelance writer and currently writes for the Vancouver Guardian. Taking influence from journalism culture surrounding the great and late Anthony Bourdain, she is a recipe author working towards publishing her own series of books. You can find her food blog on Instagram: