Meet Todd Ness, the stand-up comedian known for a style that blends storytelling, observation, and the absurd.
Todd is a dedicated fan of the craft, citing Bill Burr as his favourite and finding inspiration in everyone from Doug Stanhope to the clean humour of Nate Bargatze. His focus is always evolving, driven by the rewarding feeling of making the newest joke work.
This dedication recently led him to his favourite stage yet: performing for 10,000 people at the Great Outdoor Comedy Festival in Halifax.
To hear more of his work, read on.
How would you describe your comedy style?
My style is a mix of story telling, observational and absurd. Without that said, I never aim for any particular style when I’m coming up with material, I truly just express whatever I find funny in the best way I can- so it’s always evolving.
Who are some of your influences?
I love comedy so much that just about anyone at the highest level is inspiring- just from their mastery of the craft. Bill Burr is my favorite comedian, Dave Chapelle and Louis Ck’s specials have made me laugh the hardest by far. And I’m always blown away but how insanely hilarious Jim Gaffigan and Nate Bargatze are while also being completely clean.
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
Growing up, my favourite comedian was Doug Stanhope. I remember listening to some random comedy radio station every night before bed throughout late elementary school and junior high. Eventuall,y one of Stanhope’s bits came on, and his delivery and everything was so different from all the rest, he instantly became my early favourite.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
Bill Burr
What is your pre-show ritual?
This has changed a lot over the years. It used to be pacing around for an entire day, being so nervous that my whole routine for getting ready was simply trying not to puke and somehow forcing myself to eat something. Now that I don’t have the nerves, I like to calmly go over my set list and visualizing the show. When I get to the show, the prep is simply watching everything from the very beginning until I go on. This helps me get a sense of the room, come up with spontaneous ways to connect, and feed off the energy that the other comedians do a great job creating.
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
My favourite venue was just this past summer at the Great Outdoor Comedy Festival in Halifax. There was 10,000 people, all sitting on a hill that formed a natural amphitheatre. The audience, venue, weather and everything was perfect, and it was an amazing experience.
What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?
The most rewarding part of comedy is when you write a new joke/bit that works. A new joke has so much energy and enthusiasm, because its fresh and activates everything creative that makes comedy fun. So my favourite bit is always the most recent one that I’ve been able to make work.
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?
Podcasts for sure. I think that’s how people really get introduced to new comedians now. You sort of become a fan of them first, then seek out their stand-up as a result.
Tell us a joke about your city.
Construction
Do you have anything to promote right now?
I have a weekly Podcast called Nessin Around! I also have an album on Spotify, etc., called Working Comic. And will be touring again soon, so keep your eyes posted!
Where can we follow you?
Best way to follow is on Instagram
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?
You should follow Chris Gordon, Brittany Lyseng, and Dale Ward.
