Theatre

Q&A

Anjelah Johnson tells us how YouTube changed her life

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Anjelah Johnson is bringing her latest stand-up show to Australia this August and we couldn’t be more excited.

The US comedian, actress and YouTube sensation may have a viral video to thank for her initial skyrocket to fame, but its her consistent live performances that have kept comedy fans flocking to see her ever since.

Anjelah’s first visit to Australia in 2014 saw her sell out the entirety of her Melbourne International Comedy Festival season, and the upcoming August shows are proving just as popular. After selling out the initial show at Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre, Anjelah announced a second show due to demand.

Ahead of her return to Aus this August, we’ve caught up with Anjelah to talk about performing live, new impressions and how YouTube totally changed her life.

Read our full Q&A:

What is your favourite thing about performing in front of a live audience?

The instant gratification of the laugh to something I wrote. I also love seeing people’s faces in the audience full of joy.  

Do you suffer stage nerves or have any tips for other aspiring comedians that might? 

Yes, only when I know I’m trying new material, or if my tickets didn’t sell too well then I get nervous and in my head about if people really want to be at my show. 

Are there any impressions or characters you’ve yet to perfect, or would love to perform as part of a future routine?

I’m always working on my different accents. So far I have a really hard time making the distinction with Australian, New Zealand, South African and British. They all come out of my mouth sounding the same! 

How beneficial do you think YouTube is, or can be, to new comedians?

YouTube changed my life. The thing is you never know what will go viral and what won’t. If you don’t put anything up on YoutTube then your odds of going viral are very slim. 

Did you have to work to make your stand-up routine stand out, or do you feel like things have happened mostly organically? 

My stand-up routine is uniquely my own. It takes work to craft a joke, however, I don’t set out to stand out from the rest but to just continue to grow as an artist and continue to make people laugh and bring joy. 

What’s the secret to not taking yourself too seriously in today’s society? 

Remember we are all human. We all make mistakes, we all have quirks, we all have our thing that makes us different, so embrace it and celebrate it instead of trying to hide from it.  

Finally, what music are you most likely to be listening to in your dressing room, or en route to a show?

I have a playlist on Spotify called “Smile Songs”. It is a list of songs that I can’t help but smile while listening to. I don’t listen to it too much because I don’t want to get tired of it. I only listen to it when I need it. When I need a boost of energy and joy! 

 

WIN the chance to meet Anjelah in Australia

Simply buy two tickets to any Anjelah Johnson Live show between 16 – 30 July, and get the chance for you and a friend to win an exclusive meet and greet with Anjelah on the night! Competition terms and conditions apply. Purchase Anjelah Johnson Live tickets at Ticketmaster.com.au, and you’ll be automatically entered into the draw.