Mark DeBonis is a Canadian comedian known for his stand-up performances and contributions to the comedy scene. He has achieved significant recognition in his career, including winning The Great Canadian Laugh Off and a Canadian Comedy Award.
DeBonis has performed at major events like Just For Laughs and appeared on platforms such as CBC and the Comedy Network.
In addition to live performances, Mark DeBonis released a comedy album titled Minutiae in 2020, further cementing his reputation as a talented writer and performer.
Sandra Battaglini is a Toronto-based stand-up comic who has been performing since around 2001. She began her comedy journey after taking improv classes at Second City, where she and some classmates decided to try stand-up. Her first performance was at the Laugh Resort club in Toronto, followed by a more successful set at Yuk Yuks.
Battaglini’s comedy style evolved from storytelling to incorporating more structured jokes, often drawing from personal experiences and family stories, particularly about her father. She also studied clown in 2002-2003, which influenced her performance style.
She has expressed views on the challenges Canadian comedians face in the industry, particularly regarding access to the American market, and has been involved in lobbying for comedy for about ten years.
Garrett Jamieson is a Canadian comedian, writer, and actor known for his dark, absurdist style and storytelling.
Jamieson’s comedy has been featured on SiriusXM, CBC Comedy, MTV Canada, and Comedy Network. He has toured across Canada and has performed at clubs and theaters, including NXNE and JFL 42.
In the latest episode of “Welcome with Karim Kanji,” we shine the spotlight on Patrick Hakeem, a comedian whose roots span the globe, enriching his comedic lens with layers of multicultural experience. Born in Montreal, Patrick’s half-Syrian, half-Ecuadorian heritage, combined with growing up in an all-Italian neighborhood, imbues his comedy with a rich tapestry of cultural influences.
The conversation ventured into Patrick’s recent stand-up special and album recording, shedding light on the intricacies and challenges encountered amidst a pandemic-laden world. Amidst the laughs, Patrick revealed insights into the Sirius XM realm, offering a glimpse into the lesser-known territory of radio royalties for comedians.
With a shared disinterest in political satire, Patrick and I navigate the terrain of comedy with a focus on personal connection. Their exchange underscored the vital role of relatability in crafting humor, delving into Patrick’s journey from reluctance to embrace stand-up amidst distractions.
Anecdotes flowed as Patrick and I recounted encounters with audience dynamics, from the absurdity of a self-proclaimed minority to the disruptive presence of hecklers. Patrick also lamented the dwindling platform for Canadian comedians, reflecting on Much Music’s transition and the saturation of comedy specials in the streaming era.
Throughout the episode, a deeper narrative emerged, painting a portrait of resilience amidst a changing comedic landscape. Patrick Hakeem’s journey serves as a testament to the power of cultural fusion in comedy, bridging divides with laughter and shared experiences.
Tune in to “Welcome with Karim Kanji” for a captivating exploration of comedy, culture, and the ever-evolving world of entertainment.
My next guest is a stand-up comedian who has been touring across Canada and the U.S. for the past decade. His comedic style has often been described as energetic, diverse, and honest. He has been featured on the JFL42 Festival, NXNE Festival, and SiriusXM. His material draws from his experiences as an Egyptian immigrant growing up in Canada, various life struggles, and finding humor in the hardest of times.
