Melbourne International Comedy Festival comedian Q&A: Aliya Kanani, Where You From, From?

Growing up with 30 countries, 10 schools and six languages to your name, you are bound to develop thick skin and a quick wit, says comedian Aliya Kanani.

Aliya Kanani Melbourne Comedy Festival 2019.

What can people expect from your show at this year’s Melbourne International Comedy Festival?

People can expect to have fun.

That is first and foremost on the agenda.

Thought provoking, certainly.

Personal and therefore unique, absolutely.

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But above all, I want people to walk out with more energy than when they walked in … let’s play.

What have you been up to since last time you were here?

This will be my second year performing at MICF but my first year bringing my solo show to the festival, and I am pumped.

I got to wrap up 2018 with a few cool opportunities, including showcasing with Stand-up NBC at the renowned Gotham Comedy Club in New York, recording with CBC LOL and competing in Sirius XM’s Top Comic.

I’ve also recently started doing stand-up in French, too, which has been a very cool journey!

Who should see your show, and why?

Why should you see my show … hmm.

Do you like to laugh and feel good?

No, OK.

Fair enough. I won’t tell you how to feel. Carry on.

Yes? Good, phew.

You’re who I want at my show.

So why should you come?

I mean, I came all the way from Canada, I feel like it’s the least you could do.

Also, I am really excited about this show.

I’ve compiled some of my funniest stories about growing up in a mix of cultures, while moving around constantly, travelling the world and trying to find my place … which is something I think everyone can relate to.

I like to think my humour is inclusive with a dash of mischief.

Everyone is welcome!

What’s your No.1 tip for people coming to see a show at the comedy festival?

Go to the toilet before the start of the show. Comfort is key.

What do you love about Melbourne?

What I really like about the culture in Melbourne from what I have experienced so far is that they are very similar to Canadians in their friendliness, but slightly more reckless … which I am totally down with.

I think a little recklessness is important, makes life a little more interesting.

Who or what is your comedic inspiration, and why?

I get asked this question all the time and never know how to answer because I never really grew up watching stand-up or considering a career as a comedian.

I kind of fell into it by accident.

That said, I appreciate most humour.

ALIYA KANANI, WHERE YOU FROM, FROM?, APRIL 10-21, COOPERS INN, THE 40, 282 EXHIBITION ST. BOOK TICKETS