A GROUND-BREAKING year in entertainment saw glass ceilings shattered, and amidst the excitement, a new star has emerged on the UK comedy scene – the talented Priya Hall. This Welsh stand-up comic is captivating audiences with her laughter-filled performances, and her hilarious debut solo show, Grandmother’s Daughter, is set to take her career to new heights.
In a recent interview with Eastern Eye, Priya Hall revealed that her love for comedy has been ingrained since childhood, thanks to her mother’s influence. Growing up with shows like Goodness Gracious Me and The Young Ones, comedy became a constant presence in her life. Her exposure to Eddie Murphy’s iconic stand-up specials further solidified her passion for comedy, eventually leading her to explore the live circuit.
Reflecting on her first stand-up gig, Priya described it as a euphoric experience. Although it was a local gig for new acts and material, the supportive environment encouraged her to continue pursuing comedy despite any initial challenges.
When asked about her most memorable stand-up moment, Priya shared an unforgettable incident involving an audience member who admitted to having an affair during a bit of crowd work. The shock and subsequent reaction from the rest of the audience created a unique atmosphere that she will always remember.
Looking ahead, Priya expressed her excitement about performing at London’s iconic Soho Theatre, recognizing its reputation as a prestigious space for stand-up. She anticipates a dreamy audience and cannot wait to take the stage.
Regarding her show, Grandmother’s Daughter, Priya describes it as a blend of storytelling and oversharing about her own life and those around her. Promising a fun, queer, and heartfelt performance, she aims to capture the audience’s hearts and leave them in stitches.
Although nerves occasionally creep in before a performance, Priya’s anxiety manifests as sleepiness, leading to pre-show naps and inconveniences in green rooms. But once she takes the stage, her comedic brilliance shines through, captivating the audience with her unique style.
Priya’s writing process involves a delicate balance between oversharing on stage and reining it in to avoid revealing too much personal information. While embracing vulnerability has its benefits, she aims to strike a balance and avoid crossing that fine line.
When it comes to comedy heroes, Priya’s admiration is reserved for Rhod Gilbert, a Welsh comedian whom she describes as a genius. Having attended his live shows since childhood, she witnessed his remarkable comeback after a challenging period, solidifying her respect and admiration for him.
In real life, Priya finds her girlfriend to be the funniest person she knows, closely followed by her hilarious and vivacious nana. Drawing inspiration from people and their stories, gossip plays a significant role in her comedic style, providing endless humorous material.
Beyond the stage, Priya recognizes the power of laughter to brighten even the dullest moments. During her time working at a call center, being funny helped her navigate through mundane conversations, injecting a dose of levity into her day-to-day interactions.
As for her New Year’s resolution, Priya’s focus lies in training her cat to walk on a harness, envisioning delightful walks together in the park. She sees it as a commitment both for herself and her furry companion.
With Priya Hall poised to take the comedy world by storm, her upcoming performance at Soho Theatre is a must-see event for anyone seeking a night filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable stories. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the rise of this comedy wonder.
Priya Hall’s show, Grandmother’s Daughter, will be running at Soho Theatre from Monday, January 29, to Wednesday, January 31. For tickets and more information, visit www.sohotheatre.com.
