Darwin Barcellano found his way into Vancouver’s comedy scene after taking the “Laughterzone 101” stand-up course with Jan Bannister just before the pandemic. Having used humour as a way to navigate life with a disability since childhood, he quickly realized his passion for stand-up and hasn’t looked back.
With a sharp mix of self-deprecating humour, one-liners, and storytelling, Darwin delivers a fresh and engaging perspective onstage. He has performed alongside comedy icons like Rex Navarette, Ron Josol, Bobby Lee, and Jo Koy, with one of his career highlights being a set in front of 15,000 people at SaskTel Arena.
How would you describe your comedy style?
My comedy style is a mix of self-deprecating humour, one-liners and storytelling.
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
I never really had a favourite comedian growing up, but I do remember one moment vividly. At the age of 8, my brother (Dexter), who was 6 at the time, was watching Sesame Street when my dad switched the channel to Three’s Company (John Ritter). We were instantly hooked. Then, we moved on to shows like Night at the Improv and Bizarre with John Bryner, along with Super Dave Osborne- none of which were really meant for kids, but we watched them with my dad.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
There are so many comedians out now, but lately, I’ve been gravitating back to the legends- veteran stand-up comedians like Sinbad, Dave Attell, Brian Regan, George Carlin, George Lopez, Freddie Prinze and Richard Pryor. Their timeless humour and unique styles continue to inspire me.
What is your pre-show ritual?
My pre-show ritual involves not eating or drinking anything at least two hours before the performance. On the drive to the venue, I go over my material, and I try to keep myself isolated to focus and mentally prepare. I also do breathing and vocal exercises to warm up my voice before hitting the stage.
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
My favourite place to perform is Yuk Yuk’s Comedy Club, any Yuk Yuk’s location really. It’s such a well-known brand, and the rooms are specifically made for comedy. People come there to watch and listen to comedy, which creates a great atmosphere. Additionally, the Yuk Yuk’s venues are always accessible to people with disabilities, which is something I truly appreciate.
What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?
My favourite bit that I have written is a Vasectomy joke. It came so naturally and pretty much wrote itself. I performed it one night, and it was an instant hit; it’s definitely one of my favourite jokes. One of the key lessons I have learned from veteran comics is that the topics you are afraid or nervous to talk about are often the ones you should try on stage.
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comes/comedians?
My favourite medium for discovering new comics and finding comedy is YouTube and streaming platforms that showcase classic stand-up shows and specials.
Tell us a joke about your city.
Winnipeg, Manitoba have five seasons: spring, winter, summer, fall and construction. Every year, those huge potholes need to be filled; it’s an annual tradition. Also, mosquitoes in Winnipeg are the size of pterodactyls! You don’t swat them away, you need to negotiate with them!
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?
There are so many amazing local comedians out there, it’s hard to pick one! My advice is to discover them by heading out to a show. Comedy events are often posted on social media, so be sure to stay tuned and support your local comedy scene. But if I had to name one, check Jackie Amsden.
