Who is Sam Wade?
I’ve been called many names. Shark Jesus. Sonic Boom Laugh. Husbando, bringer of snugs. But I’m branding myself as an aggressively upbeat, autistic comedian from Sydney by way of the south coast in NSW.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
Take more risks. Embrace vulnerability. Start sooner. Invest in bitcoin in 2012.
Who inspires you and why?
Big names like Billy Connolly, Ross Noble, Dylan Moran and Pete Holmes because they’re legends. But most of the time it’s other local comics on the scene, trying new stuff, helping each other out, laughing, commiserating, and working together to make other people happy. That’s too close to real emotions so I’ll undercut it to save face. Poseidon, lord of the sea.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
The best thing I can do is try and fill the ever-encroaching void of darkness with joy and laughter. That’s what brings me joy and meaning. Also, because as I’ve been told time and time again “telekinesis isn’t real and you’d make a terrible god”.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Melbourne for the comedy festival! That’s bare faced pandering. Real answer is anywhere with a winery and low phone reception.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I’m dragging them to a line up show, followed by Greek food and then some kind of whisky bar. It’s got to have nooks so we can just riff for the rest of the night.
What are you currently reading?
Endless Batman comics. I’m obsessed with someone on an endless quest against overwhelming odds, who is always masking and unmasking, with an inordinate sense of justice and an unbelievably specific hyper-fixation. I don’t know why. I do know. It’s autism.
What are you currently listening to?
It’s rotating between ACDC (Bon Scott all the way), Synthwave (No thoughts, just neon), Self-help podcasts (Hustle culture is a hell-scape of our own making) and the Rocky Soundtrack (No further comment).
Happiness is?
Performing stand-up, my wife, my cat. Not necessarily in that order. Maybe in that order.
What does the future hold for you?
An actual holiday. More gigs. Gigs on holiday. The never-ending cycle of life that claims us all minute by minute, second by second as the river of time flows through me on its way to oblivion and the end of all things. More gigs. Maybe a nice pastry?
Sam presents Sam Wade Vs The Void at The Vault Theatre – Speakeasy HQ, as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, until 19 April 2023. For more information, visit: www.comedyfestival.com.au for details.
Image: Sam Wade (supplied)