Chewy May bows down to the craft
Chewy is a comic born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. She has over 20 years of social awkwardness under her belt which fuels her comedy mind and her perspective on life.
On your deathbed, what transcendent advice would you croak at a young comedian?
At the end of the day, it is your bits, your image, and your story. Do not follow anyone else’s journey and definitely do not compare yourself to anyone else.
When you were coming up in comedy, what helped you stick with it?
The feeling of making people laugh and the acknowledgment of my comedy peers.
Best comedy advice you ever got?
Comedy does not need you, you need it. You must bow down to this craft.
Worst comedy advice you ever got?
Do you know Margaret Cho? You should do that too and talk about your mom.
Favorite response to a heckler or troll?
I like to treat a heckler like a “get to know” moment and use that information to make fun of them. My favorite comedian that has mastered heckler handling is Jimmy Carr.
Tell us the story of your worst gig.
I did an “ambush” type show (the audience doesn’t know a show is happening). In the middle of my set, a lady enjoying her birthday dinner said “Please turn the music back on.”
What were you like as a teen?
I was definitely not a funny teen. I was super religious and in the closet. I even tried to start the Christian Club at my high school.
How has being funny helped you in your offstage life, either recently or when you were younger?
It definitely helped me in my personal life, especially with dating. In my experience, jokes are a good icebreaker and a good first-date memory for both parties.
Was there one person who inspired you to go into comedy? If so: Who, why, how?
No one inspired me to get into comedy. I’ve always been a fan of standup comedy. I’ve been a fan of Ellen Degeneres and Wanda Sykes. When YouTube became popular I started becoming a fan of Marina Franklin, Jessica Kirson, and Bill Burr.
What single word always cracks you up?
Focaccia.
