Adam Jacobson is a comedian known for his energetic and genuine performances. His comedy style, described as “high energy, higher autism” offers a unique perspective that resonates with audiences. Influenced by comedians like Maria Bamford and Jim Gaffigan.
How would you describe your comedy style?
High energy, higher autism
Who are some of your influences?
Maria Bamford, Big Jay Oakerson, Jim Gaffigan, Norm Macdonald, George Carlin, Kenny Hotz, Jessica Kirson, Bill Burr, Gilbert Gottfried, Steven Brody Stevens, Chris Rock, Jon Stewart, Ivan Decker, Patrice O’Neal, Gary Gulman, Joan Rivers, Ari Matti and Ralphie May. That list may seem too long, but I feel like I forgot people.
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
I don’t think I can say I had a favourite, I just consumed stand-up and comedy shows of all sorts and loved it. The first form of stand-up I ever saw was Russel Peter’s Comedy Now special and I’ve been hooked ever since. I had a ton of great memories of staying up late, laughing at JFL clips on Comedy Network, Kenny Vs Spenny, The Daily Show and South Park.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
I absolutely adore Jessica Kirson. She is so sweet and goofy, and I feel like we all need that in these trying times.
What is your pre-show ritual?
Listen to music, pump myself up and just hope the adrenaline settles in my body.
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
There are so many great clubs in Vancouver. I always have fun at House of Comedy. The staff are super warm and work so hard to create a fun club experience for comics of all skill levels. Chill X Studios has a gorgeous aesthetic and is very intimate. The producers do amazing work and help me so much in improving my craft. Underground Comedy has the feel of a New York Comedy Club in the heart of downtown Vancouver. Some of the best hangs I’ve had in comedy were at Comedy After Dark. Super welcoming space and I love the food there too they have amazing poutines. And finally, I love the MOTN and its controlled chaos where comics are encouraged to express themselves in the weirdest, most wonderful ways. There’s an awesome show called Big Dog Energy where there are puppies in the audience. It’s so wholesome and wonderful it makes me want to vomit.
What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?
I feel most proud of my autism material. Everything about it is all me. The ups and downs that come with walking down that Autismo path. After shows audience members will come up to me and tell me about their lived experiences with autism, or about their loved ones who have it and that just makes me feel swell.
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?
Nothing compares to seeing a show live. See local Canadian comics live, it is better than doomscrolling through algorithm feeds.
Tell us a joke about your city.
“The housing bubble will burst any moment now.”
Do you have anything to promote right now?
Check out my show at Nanaimo Fringe Festival “You’re Just…Different: An Autism Journey” coming out this August 8-18!
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?
Am Mangat Robert Peng Jimmy Trotter Eden Kaminski Zachary Joesph Josh Fleming
