This week we had the chance to talk with Katie-Ellen Humphries about her influences, style, and what she is currently up to.
How would you describe your comedy style?
Conversational (if when you had conversation you strategically inserted practiced one-liners) and confessional.
Who are some of your influences?
My brother Matt is probably my biggest influence; I basically modeled myself after him in all respects throughout our lives. He lives in Australia currently so I steal his clothes less these days. I also draw a lot of inspiration from minor league baseball, independent wrestlers and the Vancouver independent hip hop scene.
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
It might sound odd for a choice as a kid, but Richard Pryor. I loved him in movies growing up, before I knew what standup was. Later when I discovered standup I came across his autobiography Pryor Convictions and it was very impactful. Also Miss Piggy. That broad can deliver a line.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
Maria Bamford.
What is your pre-show ritual?
I like to listen to femme Pop music while I get ready. The type of upbeat stuff used to sell exercise equipment or played in the trailer for movies where women get their life together after divorce.
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
The Victoria Event Centre (in Victoria B.C.) will always hold a special place in my heart. That is where I first performed regularly when I was trying to make the transition from student-athlete into the arts. I performed with a group called “Atomic Vaudeville” and got to work with incredible performers who had years of training and for regular audiences who became a really beautiful fan community. It feels like where I became a performer.
What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?
My favourite bit is one I closed my album Ladyfinger on, a bit about prostate exam jokes. I initially wrote it for the first “Ride for Dad” Comedy Fundraiser Show in White Horse, Yukon, which is a great event that raises money for prostate cancer testing and education and is a function that became quite special to me. It’s also the first joke I wrote that got a big reaction from both comedians and audiences. It has some gender commentary on double standards in comedy so it says something that is meaningful to me but it’s not only political. It’s a bit sexual while still (relatively) safe for work and as I became a more seasoned performer that joke grew to have a fun act out so it got more and more fun to do.
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?
Nothing beats live. I love to go to an open mic or an amateur night and see new comics coming up. Short of going to live shows I like to find new funny folks on Twitter.
Tell us a joke about your city.
I’ve been trying to get more alone time lately, so I’ve been making plans with friends in Vancouver.
Do you have anything to promote right now?
Also… I co-host a weekly podcast with my best friend/life partner actor Amitai Marmorstein called Horny OFF MAIN where we talk about shame, vulnerability and the things we are most excited about (horny for) each week.
Where can we follow you?
Website | Twitter | Instagram | Mailing List
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?
I can’t get enough of Rachel Schaefer.
