Meet Lizzie Allan, the ingenious mind behind “Hilarapy” – a comedic style that seamlessly blends therapy with humour. Unveiling her unique brand of stand-up, Lizzie fearlessly dives into the art of standing in her power and owning her life’s quirks, delivering a refreshing cocktail of observational wit and captivating storytelling. As she takes the stage, Lizzie invites you on a journey through the absurdities of daily life, turning personal tales into uproarious anecdotes. We spoke with her to find out more about her promises, not just laughs, but a therapeutic exploration of the lighter side of life, one punchline at a time.
How would you describe your comedy style?
I call my style Hilarapy- comedy meets therapy- standing in my power owning my shit, observational and storytelling.
Who are some of your influences?
French and Saunders from the UK – their sketch show showed me my future job
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
Lee Evans
Who is your favourite comedian now?
My friends are my favourites – they crack me up and we all write comedy together.
What is your pre-show ritual?
Dancing and singing vocal warm-ups.
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
My own Hilarapy shows, because it’s a house party I get to control. Producing my own shows gives me the power to set the positive high vibrations and respect that my heart-centred comedy deserves. I prefer an alcohol and drug-free environment – I’m a person in long-term recovery which means I haven’t had a drink or a drug in 14 years.
What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?
I love my lesbian-vegetarian joke. It’s a play on stereotypes and has helped me to heal from my experiences of internalised homophobia.
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?
I love Instagram reels, I also teach comedy therapy courses and I have discovered some phenomenal talent. When we walk into the shadow side of our stuff we can really access our power, I have witnessed some stars find their shine.
Tell us a joke about your city.
I’ll tell you a joke about Canada,
You know what I love about Canada? There is no pressure to be fashionable. No offence to the lady in the bicycle helmet. I’m from the UK, theirs so much pressure to be fashionable. But Canada has very sensibly erected an invisible forcefield round the entire country that says “Fashion NO! We’ll have none of your frivolous ways here.” The height of fashion in Canada is a decent coat. Being able to stand at the end of a pier in a windstorm and not feel it, that’s en vogue round here.
Do you have anything to promote right now?
Join our mailing list for upcoming Hilarapy shows.
Where can we follow you?
Website | Facebook | Instagram
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?
Ellen Bradley- Cheung
