Kathleen McGee

When Comedy Meets Calm: A Night with Hannibal Buress!

Ever wondered what it's like to open for a comic as chill as Hannibal Buress? Kathleen McGee spills the beans on this unforgettable night at The Comic Strip!

Ever had one of those nights where everything just feels right? That’s how I felt when I opened for Hannibal Buress at The Comic Strip in Edmonton a few years ago. If you’ve seen Hannibal perform, you know he’s not just another comic; he’s like the calm in the storm of stand-up comedy. While most comedians are bustling with energy before their set, Hannibal has this serene aura about him that's almost contagious. Honestly, when you're backstage with him, you can’t help but feel like everything's going to be just fine. If only all night outs could be this easy!

As the show kicked off, you could feel the crowd on edge, ready for a laugh explosion, but Hannibal strode onto the stage like a man who didn’t have a care in the world. His delivery was smooth, like butter on warm toast, and while the audience erupted with laughter, there was a sense of tranquility about him. Between sets, it felt less like a performance and more like everyone was just hanging out and having a good time. This dude had such a cool vibe that it almost made me forget I was about to take the spotlight after him - which is no small feat!

It's fascinating to see how someone so laid back can wield such power over a room full of people. You could tell that he was not just a performer but a storyteller, weaving his way through mundane realities with a clever wit. Every punchline felt like a surprise, yet somehow it all felt connected. That balance of calmness mixed with sharp humor is what makes Hannibal Buress a standout in the comedy industry.

In the end, what really struck me was how, despite his fame, he remained such a humble person. After the show, we both hung out for a little while, and he shared some neat insights about his journey in comedy. It’s uplifting to find someone at the top who still appreciates the little things, like good company and a solid punchline.

Fun fact: Hannibal began his career writing for the hit show "30 Rock" and he was not only a comedian but also a talented writer! His influence in comedy circles is undeniable, having worked with legends and comedians alike. In addition, The Comic Strip, where we performed, has been a launching pad for many famous comedians in Canada, making it a magical place for both performers and fans!