Sarah Masri brings a perfectly unhinged charm to Vancouver’s comedy scene — the kind that makes audiences feel like anything could happen next, including Sarah herself figuring out what’s going on. Drawing inspiration from comics like Andrea Jin, Sophie Buddle, and the darkly magnetic energy of Aubrey Plaza, Masri blends dry observations, cultural storytelling, and beautifully awkward honesty into a style that’s entirely her own. Whether she’s performing at Vancouver staples like Little Mountain Gallery or sharing stories about her Lebanese heritage, Sarah delivers comedy that feels both chaotic and deeply personal — lip balm always included.
How would you describe your comedy style?
People have told me my vibe on stage is that I have no idea what’s going on, which is awesome. I think my comedic style is having no idea what’s going on.
Who are some of your influences?
Andrea Jin and Sophie Buddle are two comics from Vancouver whom I never got to meet, but I respect them both so much and love their comedy. Also, Aubrey Plaza isn’t a stand-up, but one time someone told me I omit the same dark energy, and that was hurtful, but also a huge compliment to me because I’ve always loved her a lot.
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
I was obsessed with Jeff Dunham growing up. Besides that, the only television I watched was The Simpsons, if that counts. This can explain why I grew up to be extremely intelligent.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
Aaron Chen, Dave Merheje, Zainab Johnson, Patti Harrison, Olivia Carter, Ramy Youssef, Nataly Aukar.
I’m also lucky that some of my favourite comedians are also my friends, and I get to learn from them every day. Yay!
What is your pre-show ritual?
I have to put on lip balm, or else I feel stupid and ugly.
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
Little Mountain Gallery is a venue that means so much to me. I always feel special getting to perform there. Besides that, it’s always a treat performing at Jokes Please! I also got to perform at Comedy Bar in Toronto a couple months ago. It’s so cool getting to perform at venues and shows I went to before I started doing stand-up.
What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?
Anything I’ve written about my culture and my heritage. I’m so proud to be Lebanese; it makes me happy any time I can share that experience with others.
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?
I actually listen to comedy albums all the time when I walk my dog. Nothing beats a live show, though.
Tell us a joke about your city.
I would never joke about my terrible city.
Do you have anything to promote right now?
Please follow me on Instagram because I lost 20 followers on my birthday, and it really hurt my feelings. Not stand-up, but I also perform monthly with a group called Grad School Improv, and it’s awesome and always fun.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?
Josh Fleming is a star and makes me laugh so hard any time he’s on stage.
