Comedian Desiree Walsh speaks to Close-Up Culture about her role in the new show, Comedy Invasion.
Comedy Invasion is the first TV series of its kind featuring comics who are either from the disabled, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ and/or female community. It is set to make its premiere on Amazon Prime on November 29th.
Hi Desiree, welcome to Close-Up Culture. Can you tell us about your background and how you got into comedy?
I got into comedy after deciding to take a Second City stand up comedy class. My friend’s roommate took a Second City stand up class and met her husband there (Neither of them pursued stand up after the class.) I thought it might be a good way to meet someone as well. Sadly, I didn’t meet a partner, but I got this lovely comedy career which I think is just as good LOL.
You are one of the comics featured on the new show, Comedy Invasion. What can audiences expect from your appearance in the show?
Hopefully a fun, entertaining show of super funny comedy, that is also somewhat informative of what it’s like to be a woman with a disability.
What was your experience like working on the show?
My experience working on the show was great. I have never been part of a TV taping so it was cool to learn about how everything works. I have also never been flown anywhere to do stand up before so that was also fun. It made me feel super fancy. The cast and crew were so nice and very professional. It was so great to meet other comedians from across the country. Up until now I mostly only knew Toronto based comedians. I have some family and friends that live in Vancouver, so they came to the taping and that was nice to have them share in this as well.
What will be your biggest takeaway from working on the show?
My biggest takeaway from the show will probably be the whole experience. As I said before I have never really done anything in film or TV before. Therefore, just having this knowledge of what a TV taping of a stand-up comedy special is like, is priceless. Also, the people I met through doing the show. I love meeting new people and connecting with them.
What does comedy bring to your life?
This is going to sound incredibly cheesy, but comedy has given me a real sense of community. I have made some great friends that I don’t think I would have otherwise met if it was not for comedy. It’s also a good creative outlet. I love being creative and connecting with people and it has been good for that. I also think it’s a good way to educate people about the experience of the disabled and the need for accessibility (I use a wheelchair, I’m not just passionate. Well, I mean I am, but you get it …) in society without people even realizing they are learning. I’m also excited that I get to be a positive representation of the disabled in the media.
What are your plans and ambitions for the future?
I have a Comedy album coming out with Howl and Roar records Called “Everybody Panic” That will hopefully be out by Christmas. I would also really like to do more film and TV projects. I was recently part of a sitcom pilot and that was fun.
Follow Desiree on Instagram – Desirée Walsh (@desiree.lisa.walsh_) • Instagram photos and videos