Like funny shit? Then you probably already know theres only a few days left of JFL42. The annual comedy festival started its 2017 run about a week ago and ends this Saturday (October 1). Havent seen a show yet? Theres still time, plus weve been catching up with a couple of featured comedians during the fest, checking in and finding out how they feel about our city.
Last night at dusk we rolled to The Royal to see the brilliant Beth Stelling. You may have seen her on her episode of Netflix’s The Standups or know her dope work writing on the HBO series, CRASHING or Comedy Centrals hella underrated Another Period. We linked up with Beth backstage before her show and talked about a funnily named local bra shop and how her feelings are like a studio album.
Is this your first time in Toronto?
Beth Stelling: Second time. I played Comedy Bar about two years ago.
Does it feel any different coming back now two years later? Have you noticed anything different?
BS: I noticed it wasnt cold. Last time I was here in January. Now its September and you decided to stop making it cold here! A very hot late September!
Was there anything you enjoyed during your chilly trip?
BS: Last time it was freezing, so I mostly spent my time in the hotel or in the car on my way to Comedy Bar. I did write a joke about something I saw on my way to the club. Theres a store, I think its called My Sisters Secret?
The bra shop?
BS: Yes! I said I walked into the store and the salesperson whispered, Youre adopted. I dont tell that joke anymore, I think its lost its luster. But yeah I didnt get out much then. But now! September in Toronto! Im really getting out there. Im walking to all the Toronto classics, Nordstrom, Sephora, Chipotle getting it in! I wanna experience what your burritos taste like.
And?
BS: Good. Still good. The quality at Chipotle, is waning but Im still a staunch supporter. Only cuz I dont taste when I eat…
Have you noticed anything about the Toronto comedy scene?
BS: I havent been to a comedy festival in Toronto before so its been cool for me to see the other venues. Ive gotten to experience the Garrison, the Rivoli, Comedy Bar and here! The Royal Cinema! So thats been fun. Seeing more, especially because some of them are music venues, which are fun to make into comedy venues. They translate pretty well.
The venn diagram of vulnerability.
BS: I always say I relate to musicians because my feelings are like a studio album they come out eleven months after the events that inspired them.
What would you say a comic whos coming here for the first time?
BS: Sometimes its a cautionary tale if youre going to a different country… References people might not understand. But Toronto… You guys are great crowds, honestly, so I dont really have any tips. You guys are easy going and down for a good time. You tend to like dark humour, which is why I am here!
You can catch Beth Stelling tonight (Thursday, September 28), 9pm at Garrison but, heads up, it’s sold out. Try your luck at the door an hour before the show starts. And look up some more sweet comedy on the JFL42 calendar and grab yourself a pass now!
