Hadi Kubba crafts silly, punchline-packed comedy rooted in relatability, though he admits no matter what interesting topics he attempts, he somehow always ends up doing impressions of his mother. Shaped by an eclectic mix spanning Rodney Dangerfield’s rapid-fire delivery to George Carlin’s social commentary, and growing up on comedic actors like Jim Carrey and Adam Sandler before discovering standup through Patrice O’Neal and Dave Chappelle at thirteen, Kubba now absorbs Dave Attell while social media exposes him to endless funny voices.
How would you describe your comedy style?
Silly, punchline-packed, and relatable. I try to talk about interesting things, but somehow I always find myself doing an impression of my mother.
Who are some of your influences?
Rodney Dangerfield, George Carlin, Bill Burr, Jessica Kirson, Patrice O’Neil, John Stewart, Bassem Youssef, Shane Gillis, Mitch Hedberg, Dave Chappelle… I’m not picky.
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
Jim Carrey/ Adam Sandler/ Ben Stiller/ Jack Black… comedic actors mainly. I don’t think I realized that stand-up comedy was a thing until I was 13 or so. I got pretty into Patrice O’Neil, Dave Chappelle, Bernie Mac, and Chris Rock after that.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
Lately, I’ve been listening to a lot of Dave Attell. It’s hard to pick just one favourite, though. Social media has exposed me to so many funny comics.
What is your pre-show ritual?
Nowadays, I’m usually running from a Jiu Jitsu class, so I’m just rushing home to shower and then head straight to the venue with a snack. If I have the whole day to prep for a big show, I like to bullet point the material and quickly run through the set once or twice. I use cue cards and highlighters if I’m really nervous.
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
Headlining my first weekend at the Laugh Lounge in Ottawa was an incredible time. Ottawa has probably one of the hottest crowds in Canada, and that room is built for comedy.
What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?
I try not to hold any jokes above the rest, but I love writing about real things in my life or in society and painting a picture onstage. I have a joke about a particular zoo that I’m very excited about right now, the act-outs are fun.
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?
I’m listening to audio albums of comics nowadays rather than sitting down and watching them. I like to be doing something mundane and giggling to myself around the house or gym.
Tell us a joke about your city.
Montreal is beautiful for half the year. The other half is disgusting. It’s -30, everything is a bike lane, there’s nowhere to park. This is a good place to live for a penguin on a bicycle… I’m sorry, a French penguin on a bicycle.
Where can we follow you?
Website | Instagram | Facebook
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?
Bonggun Kim | Kansei Yasuda | Viveth K
