Standing up for clean humour
Fervr interviews Christian comedian, Dave Wiggins
These days, comedians seem to have push the boundaries more and more to get a reaction from crowds. So it's not uncommon to hear loads of swearing, sexual jokes, and worse from a lot of Australian and international comedians. However, there are still comedians out there who believe you can have a clean routine & still get plenty of laughs. This year some of them are putting on an event in Melbourne called "Squeaky Clean Comedy". We interviewed one of them about what it's like being a Christian comedian & what the show is all about.
1. What's your name & where do you live?
Dave Wiggins, West Auckland , New Zealand
2. Can you tell us what or who got you interested in pursuing a career in comedy?
We were having a going away party for a friend. We had a band and I decided to jump up and MC the night. Later at the party a friend of mine said you should do stand up comedy so a few weeks later I booked myself in at the rookie night at the comedy club and I haven’t looked back since.
3. What challenges face a Christian who works in the mainstream comedy business?
I think every comedian has the challenge to stay true to themselves and their style and personality. That becomes a bit more difficult sometimes when you’re a Christian and decide to do clean comedy as it seems everyone’s pushing the boundaries in the other direction. But in some ways its better because you are forced to work hard to make sure your material is funny for the right reasons and that you are not just going for a cheap laugh.
4. You're performing in Melbourne as part of 'Squeaky Clean Comedy'. What should we expect from the show?
I came to Melbourne a couple years ago to do the festival and I’ve been wanting to come back ever since and doing the Squeaky Clean Comedy show just made sense. Expect to see and hear squeaky clean comedy but there will probably be a stage and microphone and you’ll hear people laughing. I think that’s pretty much it.
5. What advice would you give to a young Christian guy or girl who is interested in pursuing a career in comedy?
Do it. The only way to learn how to do it is to get on stage and give it a go. Find an open mic at a comedy club and sign up. Also watch as much live comedy as you can - you can learn how comedy works and what you like and dislike. Finally find a comedian you like and respect and ask them to tell you about stand up. Comedians love to talk so they’ll be happy to have a chat
6. What is your favourite clean joke?
"I used to play sports. Then I realized you can buy trophies. Now I'm good at everything." (Demetri Martin)
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To find out more about Squeaky Clean Comedy head to the website for Candlelight Productions.
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