The Jeff Dunham fans of Saint John will be pleased to hear that the well-known comedian and ventriloquist will making an appearance at Harbour Station on Nov. 21.
Originally from Dallas Texas, Dunham has been entertaining people worldwide with his hilarious stand up acts consisting of a variety of dummy companions. This talented man has appeared on many television shows, including David Letterman, Comedy Central Present and The Tonight Show.
In addition, Dunham has five specials that run on the comedy network and previously starred in his own Jeff Dunham Show.
Dunham has had tremendous success worldwide and has been named “America’s favourite comedian.” He is also the top grossing standup act in North America and has been wildly successful in Europe. Aside from millions of dollars in profit from DVD’s and merchandise, Dunham has received more than 400 million hits on YouTube.
His Christmas special, A Very Special Christmas was the most watched telecast in Comedy Central History. He is also one of the top paid comedians in America and is only behind the likes of Jerry Seinfeld and Chris Rock.
Needless to say, Dunham has taken the world by storm as an entertainer. Although, this has not occurred free of controversy. Critics claim that much of Dunham’s work is racist, sexist and homophobic.
North Americans continue to support his work and consider him one of the greatest comedians out there.
In anticipation of his visit to Saint John, Jeff Dunham provided the Baron with some insight about who he is. Here is what Jeff had to say:
Q – How has social media (such as YouTube videos, where viewers can watch a recorded performance) affected your field of work?
A – Social Media has been huge for us. Comedy Central took us off the launch pad, You Tube took us around the world!
Q- Critics have accused some aspects of your performances/characters to be racist (Achmed the Dead Terrorist). What are your thoughts on this and have you had to do anything differently to avoid this criticism?
A – In my show I try and make fun of myself more than anyone, and I believe that we should all be able to laugh at ourselves.
I heard a great comic say once that if you’re aren’t offending a couple of people here and there, you’re not pushing the envelope enough. I know there’s a fine line, but I feel that most folks have a good sense of humor and can take a joke. I’m always very suspicious when folks are ‘offended’, because more often than not, the ‘offended’ are offended for someone else, and aren’t any part of the group being picked on.
Q-What is the best advice you could give to an aspiring ventriloquist/standup comedian?
A – Practice everywhere and anywhere you can.
Q-What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you during a performance?
A – My little Min Pin, Roadie pooped on the stage.
The show begins at 7:30 on Nov 21 and tickets can be purchased through Harbour Station online or at their box office.
