Tragedy Plus Time: Vancouver Comic Tyler Boissonnault

Tyler Boissonnault is a Vancouver-based comedian who broke into the world of comedy by running a bar that would host comedy shows. Through networking with friend Jordan Ducharme and his keen interest in doing stand-up through earlier days as a musician, he made his debut at an open-mic comedy night at Vancouver’s own Benny’s Bagels. Through his wicked sense of humour and ability to poke fun at his own trials and errors, Tyler is able to rouse a laugh out of just about anyone.

Tyler Boissonnalt

How would you describe your comedy style?

I try to write about things I’ve personally experienced. About my past addiction issues or something like that… Sometimes it just comes out as a dumb joke about how to peel a banana though…but if gets a laugh I’ll keep it.

Who are some of your influences?

I’m big on Jacques Cousteau, the red cap, the accent, he had a good thing going there.

Who was your favourite comedian growing up?

George Carlin was probably my favourite. I could quote most any HBO special he had but not remember my times tables. Teachers loved that.

Who is your favourite comedian now?

I think I still lean towards the people who have been in it for a while. Bill Burr, Tom Segura, Dave Chapelle. Obviously not the newest on the block but the work ethic of the 3 of those guys is something I try and strive for.

What is your pre-show ritual?

I don’t know if it’s a pre-show ritual but I have a daily routine. I get up early (for a comic) I meditate, work out and have functional mushrooms in my coffee. As I’ve got older I find doing those three things on a daily basis helps my overall level of productivity and sharpness and has 100% made my comedy better.

What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?

I’m still pretty new to this so haven’t been to a lot of places but let me tell you, the fellas over at Vancouver Comedy Ring have had a couple of amazing spots during the short four years I’ve been doing comedy. Their most recent spot Holy Chow on Pender Street is so fun! It’s a tight little room at the back of a restaurant that is PRIMO for comedy. I highly recommend checking out any show there. They do it Thursday through Sunday EVERY WEEK!

What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?

I think my favourite always changes depending on what the new thing I’m working on is. That’s what I love about comedy, is getting the bits better and better each time.

What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?

I really like podcasts for this.

Tell us a joke about your city.

I love doing shows in the DTES. In my last gig, I had a guy come up to me outside the venue and ask ” DO YOU WANT TO BUY A KNIFE”? I guess I have to now…

Do you have anything to promote right now?

Please check out the Show Me Yours Podcast. It’s a super fun weekly pod I do with Jackie Agnew and Jonny DiVito anywhere podcast can be found!

Where can we follow you?

Come out to a live show!

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PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?

If you don’t know Jackie Agnew and Jonny DiVito you need to get on that train. I should also give a shout-out to Daragh “The Scorpion” Turner, a well-mannered Irishmen who I love watching. Nicole Tanner is someone to keep an eye on as well!

About Emilea Semancik 190 Articles
Emilea Semancik was born in North Vancouver. Emilea has always always wanted to work as a freelance writer and currently writes for the Vancouver Guardian. Taking influence from journalism culture surrounding the great and late Anthony Bourdain, she is a recipe author working towards publishing her own series of books. You can find her food blog on Instagram: