This February, Cork comedian Chris Kent presents his 5th solo show, Moving On. We had a chat with him in advance of the show!
Can you tell us a bit about your background? Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Cork City. My first job was in a butcher shop, then I became a qualified electrician before I discovered stand up comedy
Who were your earliest comedy influences?
My dad got a ‘D’unbelievables’ tape for Christmas one year and I loved it. The entire family LOL-ing before LOL-ing was even a thing!
I was also really into Father Ted and remember recording every single eposode. It still makes me laught to this day.
How did you get into the comedy business?
Friends of mine did a show called “Joy In The Hood” with Des Bishop. It opened a door to stand up that I never knew existed.
Can you tell us a bit more about the show at the Civic?
It’s a storytelling show with plenty of jokes. It’s about me moving to the UK to persue my comedy dream. I found out shortly afterwards that I was going to be a Dad for the first time and that led me to question whether I could keep chasing this dream.
Where do you get your material?
I get it from my everyday life. There is always something going wrong in some way and it feels good turning it into something funny and making people laugh.
How do you deal with hecklers?
I don’t get them often and they are different everytime. I normally try to break down what they are saying because it’s usually pretty stupid.
What advice would you give new comedians starting out?
Get on stage as often as you can. Write loads and try to enjoy it.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
It’s almost a highlight in itself – I never dreamed I would have a job like this. If I had to pick I’d say opening for Bill Burr or doing Russell Howards Comedy Central.
You’ve just become a father, how has that changed your life and career?
Life is totally different now, it’s so much harder to plan anything! But I’ve got a new lease of life in another way and sombody else to make laugh and make me smile. Fatherhood has given me a lot to think about and write about. It’s also a massive inspiration to keep striving and trying to get better.
Are you looking forward to your gig at the Civic?
I am so excited about my gig in The Civic. I’ve gigged in Tallaght before and always had a great time, the crowds are just always up for it.
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Chris Kent
Saturday 17th February
