Danielle Florence has been lighting up the comedy stages across Vancouver. The lack of television or internet while growing up did not leave her short on inspiration for her bits. We gave Danielle Florence centre stage to tell us more.
How would you describe your comedy style?
As a female comedian, I am unable to talk about anything other than sex.
Who are some of your influences?
Currently, Jenny Slate. Historically, Alice Richard (my mom, but that doesn’t dilute her comedic impact)
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
We didn’t have TV or the internet growing up, so I didn’t watch any stand-up until university. That being said, the 1999 classic novel Angus, Thongs and Full Frontal Snogging was the first thing that made me laugh out loud and think, ‘I’d quite like to make other people feel this way’.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
Josh Thomas, bar none.
What is your pre-show ritual?
Bothering people who are trying to focus on their own sets
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
It’s a tie! I opened for Gianmarco Soresi at the Biltmore this year, which was surreal and an amazing venue, but in terms of a rollicking good time, I have to say the Legion in Gibsons. There was a live band playing the comics on and off stage, and a man tried to storm the stage during my set. What more could a gal want. Oh, also Hecklers in Victoria. Sorry, I’m bad at this game.
What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?
I’ve started writing material about not having a relationship with my biological mother and I’ve finally started to figure out how to get the audience to laugh instead of just mournfully say ‘awwww’ which I’m pretty happy about.
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?
Live shows, babyyyyy!
Tell us a joke about your city.
Affordable housing.
Do you have anything to promote right now?
I co-host a podcast with local legends Amy Walsh and Niki Mohrdar. It’s called Soft for Us and you can listen to it on Spotify and Apple Music.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?
Darragh Bourke, K.C. Novak, Bradley Fung, Dave Harris, Rory Dunn, aforementioned Niki and Amy.
