Art Bellerose, a rising Indigenous comedian, is making waves with his distinctive blend of old-school setup-punchline technique and evolving storytelling approach. Drawing inspiration from comedy legends like Chris Farley and Norm Macdonald, Bellerose crafts material influenced by classics such as “Seinfeld” and “Naked Gun” that resonated with him growing up.
How would you describe your comedy style?
Old-school setup and punch, but lately, I’ve been trying longer stories punched up.
Who are some of your influences?
My childhood hero was Chris Farley. I’d say my comedy is influenced by the shows and movies I thought were funny growing up—Seinfeld, Almost Heroes, and Naked Gun, to name a few.
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
Norm Macdonald.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
Since getting into comedy, I’ve really enjoyed watching Amos Gill and Tommy Savitt. Nice guys, too.
What is your pre-show ritual?
If it’s a bigger show, I usually blast Metallica’s Harvester of Sorrow in the truck before going in—just to get mentally prepared. It’s how I used to prepare for football, and it’s been working well for stand-up.
What is your favourite place to perform? Why?
The Comic Strip in West Edmonton Mall. With all the history and big names that have come through, I always feel privileged when stepping onto that stage. The staff and management treat me like family. Outside of Edmonton, the Lido Theatre in Fort St. John was so fun.
What is your favourite bit, and why are you proud of it?
My favourite bit right now is about being a single Indigenous man trying to date a white woman on Thanksgiving weekend. My best joke is about Land Acknowledgements. After hearing so many bad Land Acknowledgement jokes, I made it a goal to create the best one—and I did.
What is your favourite medium for discovering new comics?
The VonDubCast—a podcast run by Nick Von Dub out of Edmonton. He interviews a ton of Canadian comics, including myself. Check it out!
Tell us a joke about your city.
For Calgary: You guys have a Metis Trail, but when I’m driving on it, I never see any Metis people.
For Edmonton: I never have a problem finding a date—I was voted Sexiest Man Alive in Abbotsfield, 2007.
Do you have anything to promote right now?
I’ll be in Lethbridge, co-headlining Good Times Comedy Club on August 8th and 9th.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comedian we should know about?
Danny Martinello, Nick Von Dub, Brad Semotiuk, Simon Glassman, and Dan Schmidt.
