Ryan Short is a versatile comedian known for his unique storytelling style, sprinkled with props, act-outs, and voices. Recently, he’s been diving into physical comedy, even training his body for some ambitious, never-before-seen jokes. With a deep appreciation for the craft and a relentless drive to evolve, Ryan combines humour with meticulous preparation, making his performances both captivating and unpredictable.
How would you describe your comedy style?
I dabble a bit in everything, from props to act-outs to voices, but my main style is story-telling. Lately, I’ve been doing more physical comedy. I’m currently training my body for two jokes I am working on. One, I am not sure if it’s possible to do, but I haven’t seen it done before. I do have a backup move in case my body is unable to complete the first movement.
Who are some of your influences?
I have to mention Mitch Fatel to be one. I used to mimic his adorable style until I found my own. I learn a lot from many different comedians Gary Gulmans state aberration bit I’ve broken apart and dissected it has some amazing wordplay. As well as the first episode in James Acasters’ special Repertoire. I don’t want to spoil it for anyone who has not yet seen it but the way he loses himself while playfully talking about a break-up and lost identity. This special is like a master class in weaving so many metaphors together in a way that I think is just brilliant.
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
I didn’t like comedy growing up. My dad would often watch stand-up comedy and I thought what a waste of T.V. like does he have no idea cartoons are on? The first comedian to catch my attention was Dane Cook. He was so high energy it was hard not to watch him plus he was everywhere. The second comedian was Mitch Hedberg, He reminded me of my uncles when they would all come in from the garage wearing the same skunky cologne. Eddie Izzard, Garfunkle and Oats, and Eddie Murphy were watched a lot when I had access to a computer.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
That’s a hard one it often changes a lot. Right now Gary Gulman has my favourite Joke, James Acaster has my Favorite special, Louie Ck makes me laugh the hardest, Taylor Thompson, Jordan Jensen, and Jeff Arcuri are my most watched comedians on Instagram. Comedy is like bands to me. Most bands have 1-2 songs I really like and then I just get stuck listening to them on repeat.
What is your pre-show ritual?
Depends on the day. I used to have a black coffee and two shots of tequila. Then for a while in my 20s there it was perfectly timing a bump of cocaine right before the host started to intro me. But nowadays I’m trying to be healthier with my body and mind. I will call up some friends that make me laugh while I prepare my set in the hotel and I still occasionally have a small amount of caffeine or one shot before the stage. It all depends on what I am feeling closer to show time and if I’m starting to come down off my meds.
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
Laugh Lounge in Ottawa. It’s such a dark tight back room with low ceiling that it’s very easy to have a great set in. Plus it’s owned by a good friend of mine Nick Burden. This question though is such a close race between many venues. Comic Strip is my home club that I always cannot wait to play again. Yuks in Edmonton has an amazing team there led by Ashley who will no matter how insane something you want to try back you up with creative freedom. As well as stop the audience member from actually taking away the whole couch you gave away as a prize during the show. I could do a huge list of venues here. I just love being on stage and been to some amazing places.
What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?
Would probably be Gay Siqness. It has a message in it that if you are against something that doesn’t affect you in any way shape or form but takes away from someone else rights you’re an asshole. I think that message could be applied to a lot of things in life. And I’m proud of that bit because while making that statement the bit still gets big pots and laughs throughout. I always enjoyed it when comics would spread a message with their comedy and still make it funny, Doug Stanhope does a great job at this. Also, I cannot believe I forgot to put him as my favourite comedian! my favorite comedian is Doug Stanhope hands down.
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?
YouTube and Instagram. YouTube was how I started listening to and really discovered stand-up comedy.
Tell us a joke about your city.
I don’t really have one. I mean I have written jokes that happen in my city. A lot of people like my waterslides bit which can be found on streaming platforms. That story takes place at the World Waterpark in West Edmonton Mall. It’s easy to find.
Do you have anything to promote right now?
I am currently working on a tour with Jen Sakato. In May, we will visit the Okanagan area and many places along the way. You can follow my main social media on Instagram. I’ll be posting posters with venues there.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?
Brent Ayton. If I could only pick one. This guy is unreal. If stealing jokes was allowed I would take so many of his. He’s so funny it often pisses me off. It’s like cute aggression for his jokes and how talented he is. He is just a monster on stage. He wrote jokes so well that I could tell my friends his jokes in conversation meanwhile butchering the delivery of them and the bits would still get big laughs.
