Comedian Gerry Dee Coming to the TBCA

How did you get going in comedy?

“ Iwas a teacher and I liked it but in the back of my mind, like a lot of people, I had thoughts on other things I’d always been curious about and this was one for me. I finally took a stab at it and it took off from there. I’ve been at it for 23 to 24 years now.”

I neverthought I would be a game show watcherbut have been enjoying Family Feud Canada and the interaction with the contestants. It really is a comedy show?

“I never thought I would be a game show host either! You’re right it is a comedy show. That is the only way I would want to do it. It is not easy because I am always improvising every day. I don’t know what I am going to say or what they are going to say. I don’t meet the families until they walk out on the stage. It’s fun to play on the day. Some stuff hits better that others. I try to make it a game show with some comedy in it, that’s what I am hoping to do every show. The people make the show it is not about me or the game- the families make the show. I think they are the stars of it and I just try to move it along with some

“You are like my dad who liked Don Rickles. I am a lot softer I hope. It was a different time then and he wouldn’t say what he said now and I certainly wouldn’t. I know what you mean, I like to kinda tease people and they are usually understanding of it and they know me now. The job of the host on that job is to be funny otherwise you are just moving a game show along but that’s part of it. I don’t really know how much people care if the people win or lose. They care because they love the families, but they also want to see comedy, some sweet moments are important.That’s what make the show special.” comedy. I think the casting directors of the show do a good job of choosing families. You need a family that is upbeat, fun, positive and energetic otherwise it just looks so flat and I don’t have anything to feed off of.”

Perhaps my favourite comedian of all time was Don Rickles. Ifeel like you could be like a softerversion of Don Rickles?

What can people expect at yourshow at the TBCA?

“ Well its so long since I’ve been there they are going to see a lot of new material. I’m excited for that. We have had a great crowd there in the past and expect this time to be the same. I’m looking forward to it. I’m glad I’m not going in the dead of winter. It is a great venue, a great theatre.”