Toronto comedian Natalie Norman describes her comedy as “self-deprecating with a hint of extreme narcissism,” which pretty much ensures you’re in for one crazy, but funny, ride. Fairly new to the standup scene, Norman co-hosts a bi-weekly show at Labyrinth Lounge, as well as a comedy podcast with Toronto comedian Catherine McCormick. We chatted with Norman about rom-coms, her first time on stage and what her family thinks of her being a comedian.
How did you know you were funny?
When I spoke, people laughed. Most of the time people were laughing because I said something wrong, and I wasn’t intentionally being funny. Now I think I understand how to make people laugh, but I’m really not sure.
Describe your first standup performance. Where was it, how did it go?
My first standup performance was on a Sunday afternoon at Absolute Comedy. It went well! A bunch of my friends came out to support me. The whole experience was a lot of fun. A week after the performance my friends told me that while I was onstage my pants were see-through, and the whole audience could see my underwear!
How would you describe your act?
Funny.
How often do you work on your routine before a show?
Honestly, not long enough. I always feel unprepared.
Have you had any hecklers? If so, how did you handle it? If not, how would you handle it?
I have a had few, but not many. I try to ignore them. If that doesn’t work, I yell at them, and if that doesn’t work, I cry.
Who makes you laugh the most?
My best friend, her whole family, my whole family. They are all super funny and bizarre people. Television makes me laugh. Also the comedians I mentioned as my influences. I have listened to each of their multiple performances way to many times; it’s a kind of a problem.
What does your family think of you being a comedian?
My dad acts disappointed in front of my mom, but he is secretly really excited about it. When I first started, my mom said to me, “Natalie, there is no such thing as a Jewish comedian. Why can’t you just be a lawyer?”
What’s your favourite funny movie?
I am more of a rom-com person. I love Notting Hill.
What’s next on the horizon?
Every month I co-host an awesome comedy show with fellow comedian Camille Cote. Our show is called Comedy in the Annex and it happens at Labyrinth Lounge (298 Brunswick Ave.) every second Thursday of the month. We are always working on making the show better. We try to make it fun for both the audience and the comedians because I want everyone to always have a good time. I am working on a bunch of other projects with many Toronto artists and activists, but I have to keep them a secret, otherwise I will be in a lot of trouble!
In five years, where are you, what are you doing and who are you with?
I know I will be traveling, doing comedy everywhere I can and it will be great! I am trying to be positive.
The details:
Year started standup: September 2011
Influences: Jennifer Saunders, Eugene Mirman, Tig Notaro, Sarah Silverman, Margaret Cho, Wanda Sykes, Fortune Feimster, Jen Kirkman
Next gig: The Humourless Feminists Comedy Night, The Garrison, 1197 Dundas St. W., 416-519-9439. Feb. 7, 7 p.m.