Tragedy Plus Time: Calgary Comedian Jacob Turquand

In a recent interview, Jacob Turquand describes his style as observational with personal anecdotes. Influenced by legends like Bill Hicks and Joe List, he admires Hicks for his dark humour. Before shows, he experiences and hilariously describes intense self-doubt. They promote a show at Cabin Brewing on July 7th and recommend local talent Faris Hytiaa. Despite no social media presence, he encourages supporting live comedy in Canada.

Jacob Turquand
Photo by: Betterton Atelier

How would you describe your comedy style?

I would say observational with personal anecdotes thrown in for extra jollies!

Who are some of your influences?

My influences is a tough one as there are a butt load. Hicks, Prior, Romano, Larry David, Steve Carell I could go on and on and on and you get it?

Who was your favourite comedian growing up?

It has to be Bill Hicks. His dark material with a political angle blew my tiny little mind at the time. A comedy titan!

Who is your favourite comedian now?

Now? It has to be Joe List. His style and delivery really resonate with me. I think NYC is swinging for the fences in the quality of Comedy coming out of it at the moment!

What is your pre-show ritual?

My pre-show ritual is to sweat and hate myself until they call my name! No better way to prepare yourself!

What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?

The bedroom. Very nerve-wracking.

What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?

I have a long bit about Disney being morally bankrupt that usually gets everyone on board and is probably the first longer joke I wrote that hit.

What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?

Mostly podcasts and a little bit of Instagram but yeah, comics I respect is probably the main place.

Tell us a joke about your city.

A joke about Calgary? Yeah the Flames.

Where can we follow you?

I don’t have a social presence but go to the pro/am nights, open mics and support live Comedy. Canada needs it right now!

PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?

There are so many killers in the Calgary scene that all deserve a mention but Faris Hytiaa should be on your radar if he isn’t already. Tellajokefaris is the handle you need!

 

About Emilea Semancik 160 Articles
Emilea Semancik was born in North Vancouver. Emilea has always always wanted to work as a freelance writer and currently writes for the Vancouver Guardian. Taking influence from journalism culture surrounding the great and late Anthony Bourdain, she is a recipe author working towards publishing her own series of books. You can find her food blog on Instagram: