Social media sensation Peter Chao stops by on Close-Up Culture to chat about his performance on 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 Peter, welcome to Close-Up Culture! Can you tell us about your background and how you got into comedy?
First off, thanks so much for having me. My background in comedy started at a young age. I was always considered a class clown growing up so when I started YouTube, I infused everything that got me into trouble and paired it with stuff that legit made me laugh and winged it in front of a cheap webcam; a lot of it was hit and miss but when people started tuning in and gravitating to my style of humour, there was nothing stopping me.
You are one of the comics featured on the new show, Comedy Invasion. What can audiences expect from your appearance in the show?
It was great to perform in front of a crowd again; it was an intimate setting in a historic venue and after the last couple of years, I think people were ready to laugh again. My material is pretty much a start from scratch and very experimental but there’s nothing like figuring it all out when you’re out there and relying on instantaneous feedback to steer the ship.
What was your experience like working on the show?
The experience was very nerve-wracking as I was stepping on stage for the first time in years with all new material. The fun part of performing is figuring out how the crowd will react and adapting from there. It’s a bit of a risk when you haven’t had time to refine the material but I was really excited to be out there.
What do you love most about comedy and creating online?
The satisfaction of creating comedy online is making magic in a controlled environment. It’s akin to performing in front of a live audience but once a video is uploaded, it doesn’t belong to you anymore, it belongs to the audience.
Who are some of your biggest inspirations?
One of my all-time favourite comedians is Dave Chappelle; I’ve been following his career and work since his humble beginnings and the way he’s able to interweave life stories with thoughtful punchlines in a way that commands the crowd is something to behold. And of course, one can’t overlook the cultural impact of Russell Peters and the no-nonsense comedic styles of the late, great George Carlin.
What are your plans and ambitions for the future?
My vision for the future is to dominate everyone’s TV screens and theatres around the world. My gift to this world is providing laughter and I find great joy when I’m able to make someone happy.
Follow Peter on Instagram – Peter Chao (@peterchao) • Instagram photos and videos
For more Peter – Peter Chao on Direct.me