Andrew Khoury is a comedian some find flirty and some just dirty. No matter what your experience you are sure to come away buzzing with laughter and joy. We connected with Andrew to learn more!
How would you describe your comedy style?
Hmm…I’ve had a few people say it’s dirty, but I would describe it as flirty and fun. If you’re a man in the audience, chances are I will be seeking you out. If you’re rich, even better. And I’m not signing a prenup.
Who are some of your influences?
Robin Williams as a comedic actor has had a big impact on me throughout my life. Just everything about him. Even his dramatic acting is incredible. I still find myself saying “O Captain, My Captain” when I think of him. The Birdcage is one of my favourite movies, even though I’m probably more like Nathan Lane’s character. The thing I admire about Robin Williams is that while I understand why certain comedians may want to just perform or be appealing to certain types of crowds that they most relate to, I feel like he’s adored by everyone. As a comedian, I want to be able to perform for most groups of people. Give me 5 minutes with the Taliban and I promise you, I can win them over.
Other influences that will always have a special place for me are Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Wanda Sykes, and Bea Arthur on The Golden Girls.
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
I don’t think I really watched much stand-up as a kid but I would say that my first and most profound introduction to a form of live comedy was probably SNL. All these years later, I will never not laugh at Chris Farley’s Matt Foley, no matter how many times I watch it.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
Jay Jurden, Ali Wong, Matteo Lane, and Shaden
What is your pre-show ritual?
On my way to a show, sometimes listening to Tina Turner gives me the energy I need. Before I go on stage, I always lotion my hands. I can’t be looking ashy on stage.
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
I’m gonna give two answers to this. We are talking about me after all.
First, in terms of a regular venue I perform at, it would be McKibbin’s on Bishop Street because it’s a more intimate venue and the crowd is often made up of such a mix of people.
Second, I performed at an outdoor show for Fierté Montréal (Pride Montréal) in the summer of 2022. The reason I include this one is because of what it meant personally as this queer Arab kid from a small suburb in Nova Scotia to be given that kind of platform.
What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?
I don’t want to say what the joke is but the reason why the joke I’m thinking of is one of my favourites is because it’s kind of morbid and the reaction from the crowd’s laughter and their shock sparks so much joy in me, Marie Kondo style. I’m taking a very difficult moment from my life and telling it as a joke in a very absurd and unexpected way.
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?
Word of mouth is a good way to find out about new comics, and then from there, I’ll look them up on social media to watch their content to at least have a starting point of knowing whether I’ll be into their comedy or not.
Tell us a joke about your city.
Orange is the new black.
Do you have anything to promote right now?
I will be hosting a show as part of Brockville Pride in June, so look out for that.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?
John Cotrocois, Mariam Khan, Oren Shbiro, Sin Dee, Amer Rez, Raquel Maestre.
