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Not a lot of stand-up comedy gigs find their way to Hibiscus Coast venues, but local comedian, Ocean Denham, is hopeful that a local comedy scene could grow.
The 27-year-old is part of a strong line up taking the stage at Paraoa next month, with Rhys Mathewson, Itay Dom, Keegan Govind and MC Tarun Mohanbhai.
Ocean grew up on the Coast. She says singing is what got her into musical theatre, starting with a number of Centrestage productions. She has a BA in Performing Arts and thought that musical theatre would be a big part of her future, until she “fell into” stand-up, on the advice of a friend, at an open mic night at a London club.
“In musical theatre you have to be malleable to suit different roles, but in stand-up you create a niche and don’t have to play a character as such,” Ocean says. “It can be organic and free-flowing.”
That was four years ago, and she is now carving out a niche in NZ stand-up, with gigs at places such as the Classic Theatre in Auckland.
She says other comedians are supportive of those starting out, and she is ok with the need to take the failures, as well as the highs, and develop a thick skin.
Ocean describes her comedy style, as “unapologetic – a safe space to have a fun time”.
“I say things people may want to say but they can’t. But never at the expense of anyone else,” she says. “I also sing!”
It will be only the second time she has performed locally.
“This time a lot of people know who I am. I think the audience here will be interesting as we don’t get much comedy here. But I think they’ll all be keen for a good night.”
The Stand-Up Comedy Night at Parāoa is on Thursday, July 27. Tickets from Eventfinda.
