Our latest featured comedian is Jon Steinberg. We spoke with him to find out more about his comedy style, influences and where we can follow him now.
How would you describe your comedy style?
It’s kinda weird I guess, some of it is based on my real life and some is observational, but it’s mostly just weird stuff that comes out of my head.
Who are some of your influences?
Steven Wright, Mitch Hedberg, Emo Phillips, Norm MacDonald
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
Well there was a guy who used to have a sitcom, did commercials for gelatinous snack treats, but we don’t talk about him anymore, so I’m gonna say next question?
Who is your favourite comedian now?
There are many people I could name, I’ve been enjoying Sebastian Maniscalco lately
What is your pre-show ritual?
I like to show up early, sit by myself and feel nervous. I don’t really like to feel nervous, but I don’t have a choice, so I like to be alone and early while I’m doing that.
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
I did the New Years’ show at Massey Hall years ago, it’s a really special, historic venue, with great acoustics, but there were no free drinks. So I’d have to say somewhere with free drinks.
What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?
I had a bit about the travel booking site Expedia, which never really got much reaction, but I tried to make it work for years. I’m proud of myself for sticking with that one so long.
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?
I find it’s better to see people live if I can. There’s something that gets lost in YouTube clips or tv appearances.
Tell us a joke about your city.
Well, I grew up in Ottawa and also started doing comedy there, but I’ve been in Toronto so long that it also feels like this is my city now. In any case, I don’t have a joke about either of those cities.
Where can we follow you?
You can follow me on Twitter.
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?
