Vancouver’s own William Corry, interestingly enough, started his career nearly six years ago in Shanghai, China. William had lived in China for seven years on and off as a child and always wanted to try stand-up open mic. Shanghai provided a strong comedy scene, so William gave it a shot and was hooked immediately after his first night on the stage. He’s now working as a co-producer at Mum’s The Word on Commercial Drive, performing his captivating slapstick every Monday night.
How would you describe your comedy style?
I would describe my comedy style as observational, silly, and absurd.
Who are some of your influences?
Louis CK, Demetri Martin, Rory Scovel, Joe List, Phil Hanley.
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
Favourite comedian growing up was probably Dane Cook. After being introduced to comedy by Dane, I also became a huge fan of George Carlin.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
My favourite comedian right now is probably Stavros Halkias.
What is your pre-show ritual?
I always like to get some form of exercise on the day of a show to get some endorphins and to make sure I’m properly hydrated.
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
Probably the club I started out at in Shanghai, called Kung Fu Komedy. It has since closed down unfortunately but I just have so many great memories there and got to work with really talented people in that place. I also have to mention my favourite venue in Canada is The Effie Arts Collective in Kamloops, it’s a beautiful room with a gorgeous stage, the owners bust their asses for the arts community and they treat the artists so well when you perform there.
What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?
Probably one that I wrote about how suicide is tough to joke about. My favourite types of jokes are the ones where you say the thing you’re not supposed to say and people still can’t help but laugh at it.
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?
Instagram is where I find most new comics, through reels mostly. But a lot of specials are being produced on YouTube these days so I try to watch those when I can.
Tell us a joke about your city.
I think the funniest thing about Vancouver is that there’s a housing crisis but everywhere I look is just houses upon houses.
Do you have anything to promote right now?
Would love to plug the show I co-produce with my best friend Zawer Sulaiman. It’s called Sidebar Comedy at Mum’s The Word on Commercial Drive. Every Monday at 8 PM.
Where can we follow you?
You can follow me on Instagram.
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?
A comic you should definitely know about is Darragh Bourke. Irish fellow, probably one of the strongest joke writers in the city at the moment. I always stay in the room to watch him perform. He’s hilarious and fantastic.
