We had a chat with Alex Svarez, a comedian known for his irreverent observations, quick-witted crowd work, and scorching roasts, draws inspiration from comedians like Ari Shaffir, Bill Burr, and Louis CK, as well as influences from the hardcore music scene. We discussed his current residency at the Cultus Lake Pub and what’s in the future for the Fraser Valley comedy scene and beyond.
How would you describe your comedy style?
My comedy consists of irreverent observations, impressions, quick-witted crowd work, scorching hot roasts of myself/the audience, and filterless confessions of my time on this crazy little rock spinning through space.
Who are some of your influences?
Some of my influences are Ari Shaffir, Bill Burr, Louis CK, Patrice O’Neal, Dave Chapelle, and the hardcore music scene (my dream is to have a mosh pit at one of my shows).
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
My favourite comedian when I was a kid was Russell Peters, I remember seeing him on those old JFL re-runs and thinking it was the funniest thing I’ve ever heard. “Somebody gonna get-a hurt.”
Who is your favourite comedian now?
Sam Tallent, I can’t get enough of that chubby behemoth.
What is your pre-show ritual?
Screaming in the car, having a beer, and fighting Imposter Syndrome. and doing box breathing.
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
Underground Comedy. It’s such a great room for comedy; low ceilings, dark, and subterranean (away from the prying eyes of God).
What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?
My favourite bit I’ve written is about a little rat who lives in my heart named Maurice. When I do good on stage Maurice says I could have done better, and when I do bad on stage Maurice tells me to kill myself. I’m starting to think Maurice isn’t my friend, but it’s like they always say… keep your friends close and keep a little rat in your heart who hates you.
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?
Podcasts like Kill Tony, YouTube Specials, and Standup on the Spot.
Tell us a joke about your city.
Abbotsford is a weird place, it’s kind of like FarmVille meets Grand Theft Auto, it’s like Little House on the Prostitute, Home on the Deranged. They call it the Bible Belt, but I don’t feel safe without a knife on my belt.
Do you have anything to promote right now?
I’m doing a residency at Cultus Lake Pub all summer, shows are bi-weekly, right across from one of the largest campgrounds. It’s the ultimate getaway from the city, and we’re bringing some of the best comics from across BC/and beyond.
Where can we follow you?
People can follow me on Instagram and YouTube. Also my podcast on Instagram and YouTube.
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?
A local comic/comedian that everyone should know about is Brendan Friggin Washbern!
