Ali Ward doesn’t do loud for the sake of loud. Their comedy sneaks up on you — dry, sharp, a little weird, and surprisingly moving — the kind that makes you laugh and then sit with it for a second longer than you expected. The Vancouver-based comic and producer has performed everywhere from East Van open mics to the iconic Belly Room at the Comedy Store in L.A., and they’re just getting started. We caught up with Ali to talk influences, introvert survival strategies, and what a housing co-op has to do with their love life.
How would you describe your comedy style?
A mix of dry observational humour, personal reflection, and storytelling — with a healthy dose of silliness thrown in. I like to find the funny in real life, including the parts that make you a little uncomfortable.
Who are some of your influences?
The SNL cast of the 90s and 2000s had a huge impact on me. Early Ellen DeGeneres and Steve Martin as well — both of them had this effortless quality that I’ve always admired.
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
As a kid, Robin Williams and Jim Carrey — mostly through their movies, but they were everything. In my late teens and early twenties, it shifted to Margaret Cho and Ellen DeGeneres. I also watched endless episodes of An Evening at the Improv as a teenager. I didn’t know most of the comics by name, but my sister and I were completely obsessed. We could not get enough of it.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
Hard to narrow down, but if I had to pick one — Maria Bamford. She is so unique, so brilliant, and so wonderfully weird. I have genuinely spit out my drink at her live shows more than once. Sincere apologies to the venue staff.
What is your pre-show ritual?
First, I talk myself down from the negative self-talk, the perfectionism, and the very strong urge to just… leave. Introvert problems. Then I run through my set list a few times in my head while reminding myself: “You actually like this. Just have fun.” And the thing is — I do like it. And I almost always have fun.
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
The Belly Room at the Comedy Store in L.A. — and it’s not even close. I was lucky enough to do a roast battle there this past spring, and I genuinely could not believe I was standing on that stage. It’s iconic. The history in that room is palpable. A total vibe from the moment you walk in.
What is your favourite bit you have written and why are you proud of it?
I have a joke about Game of Thrones that makes a pretty unapologetic comment about our culture. I’m proud of it because it’s funny, a little shocking, and almost impossible to argue with. That’s what I aspire to — comedy that makes people laugh at uncomfortable truths while also making them think. Those jokes are risky to write and perform because you can lose your audience fast if they’re not with you. But when it lands, there’s nothing better.
What is your favourite way to find new comedians?
Instagram finds me plenty whether I like it or not — the algorithm has opinions. But my favourite way is discovering someone new at a live show. There’s nothing like watching a comic you’ve never heard of completely own a room.
Tell us a joke about your city.
I live in a housing co-op in East Vancouver. Yes, I am a lesbian — that is how I found out. (I’ve been told this joke isn’t entirely original, which I think just confirms that housing co-op lesbian recruitment rates are remarkably high.)
Do you have anything to promote right now?
Yes! “Boy-ish Comedy” at The Closet Upstairs on July 10th, and “Chill Storytelling Mic” — a monthly show at Off The Rail. I’m producing and performing at both, so come out and say hi.
Where can we follow you?
Find me at @alicatward and follow @8monkeysproductions for shows produced by my company, 8 Monkeys Productions.
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic we should know about?
April Soon — @april.showers.soon.standup and Jake Spencer — @77jakes. Go find them both.
