Harris Anderson has a comedy style marked by dark, self-deprecating humour that avoids profanity and shock tactics. Instead, he focuses on crafting laughs from relatable experiences and clever insights. He aspires to challenge both himself and his audience, ensuring his material remains fresh and original without delving into “blue” territory.
How would you describe your comedy style?
I would call my style dark and self-deprecating. I like using my voice in different ways and challenging myself to talk about whatever I want, but to get laughs without using profanity or shock tactics. I don’t do a lot of ‘blue’ or scatological material because it doesn’t feel natural to me and other comics have that area well-covered.
Who are some of your influences?
Brian Regan, Maria Bamford, Norm McDonald, Dave Attell, and Sean Cullen are some of my favourite comics. Coming up, I was lucky to work with and learn from comics like Ivan Decker, Simon King, and John Beuhler.
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
In the nineties, Jim Carrey was a rockstar. People who weren’t alive in that decade cannot fathom how huge he was. Every little boy in my school wanted to be him and I was no exception.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
Brian Regan is the reason I started standup, so I’d have to say he’s my present and likely future favourite. For the first few years of my career, my act was essentially a Brian Regan tribute. I never used his material, of course, but I would talk and move like him. Sorry, Brian.
What is your pre-show ritual?
I go to the bathroom, touch my toes a few times, pace, hold my head in my hands and murmur softly that I’m going to bomb, and then I go onstage and whatever is destined to happen transpires.
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
I got my start at a place called The Kino Café in Vancouver which, sadly, doesn’t exist anymore. The owner, Steve Allen, ran the show with a lady named Laura Accili and together they fostered an atmosphere where comics could congregate, experiment and figure out their style. It was a wonderful place and I miss it terribly.
What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?
I have a bit about haunted house movies, basically about how no one believes their wife in them. It doesn’t always hit but it’s fun to perform, very silly, and I like the flow of it. A great comic named Sophie Buddle told me she thought it was a perfect bit, which is about the best compliment you can receive as a stand-up.
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?
I don’t really listen to a lot of comedy these days because, if I’m being honest, I tend to imitate people whose work I admire and at this stage, I’d rather concentrate on creating my own thing. But there’s always very funny people out there and there’s never been more avenues of getting one’s material out there.
Tell us a joke about your city.
Vancouver is a white Range Rover parked two feet from the curb.
Do you have anything to promote right now?
I’m hoping to do another album or perhaps a special in 2025, so stay tuned.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?
My friend Gavin Clarkson is very funny and worth people’s attention.
