Abby Stonehouse transforms the absurdities of her life into masterful, autobiographical comedy that can leave anyone in stitches. Whether it’s narcissism or sheer brilliance, Abby’s comedy is undeniably captivating and takes you on a journey through her unique perspective. Stay tuned to catch her at local shows and perhaps even on a lawn near you!
How would you describe your comedy style?
My life is absurd, so my comedy naturally follows. It’s autobiographical—or maybe it’s full-blown narcissism. Honestly, who can tell at this point?
Who are some of your influences?
Rosie O’Donnell. Kidding. IMAGINE?
In all seriousness, I’m a comedy fan first, and a performer second, so my list of influences is endless. I love watching Beth Stelling, Rosebud Baker, Rory Scovel, Ian Karmel, and Moshe Kasher. My goal? One day harness all my rage and become the female Tim Dillon.
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
Growing up, my favourite comedian was my sister Kelsey. She’s not technically a comedian, but she’s still one of the funniest people I know. I didn’t really grow up watching stand-up. The closest thing to comedy I had was Elmo when I was a kid and Ashton Kutcher as a teen—which, yes, is mortifying. It wasn’t until later that I dove into the world of stand-up. My first big comedy crush? Pete Holmes. His podcast gave me a backstage pass into the artistry of stand-up, introducing me to some of the best comics out there.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
It’s hard to pick a single favourite, but one comedian I’ve seen live more than anyone else is Mark Forward. The way his brain works is just unreal—his absurdity is next-level.
What is your pre-show ritual?
Vomit. Then I write my set out in my notebook. Even if it’s a set I’ve done a hundred times, I like to jot down the bullet points and mentally rehearse until I’m sick of myself. I also take Gelsemium, a homoeopathic remedy for anxiety and stage fright. Weird, but it works.
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
I love performing on lawns. To be more specific I love performing in private backyard shows. Context: I produce private comedy shows in people back backyards during the summer months, called Lawn Laughs. It started during the pandemic and we still do them. They are so fun and absolutely the best stage to be on. It’s magical to make people laugh under the stars. These shows tend to have audiences that love comedy and because they are in a comfortable setting for them, their home, they tend to laugh more and be very engaged.
What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?
I’ve written some really dark jokes about death and grief that I personally find hilarious, but they’ve never made it to the stage. I’m proud of them because they’re sharp, but I don’t want to risk ruining someone’s day by delivering them live
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?
Podcasts. I love to hear who they are and how they got into stand-up comedy. I love to hear how their brains work and how witty they are. Podcasts are how I fell in love with stand-up comedy. I fell in love with most of my faves that way. This is how I became such a fan of Tim Dillon.
Since I am a Montrealer, I also love discovering new comedians during Just for Laughs. This festival has led to me discovering new comedians from all over the world that I become fans of for years to come.
Tell us a joke about your city.
Montreal is the most high-maintenance, codependent bitch I know. I wish I knew how to quit you.
Do you have anything to promote right now?
I am CONSTANTLY promoting it seems. This is how this industry works.
I have 2 podcasts: House of Stone Podcast and A Horrific Evening Podcast.
Where can we follow you?
All the links are on my website: Abby Stonehouse Comedian
I am most active on Instagram, like most millennials. My handle is @abbypstone_mtl
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?
Mariam Khan, Sara Quinn, Sadie Moland, John Cotrocois, Mike Meo, Samson Cooperman, and Amer Rez.
