Jordan Armenise starts collecting material before he ever gets on stage. The Stoney Creek comedian spends the lead-up to a show sizing up the room, trading notes with other comics, and listening for names and moments he can bring back later. It’s a high-wire style that mixes polished jokes with whatever the night hands him, and Absolute Comedy in Toronto is where he’s sharpened it. Here, Jordan talks about the comics who shaped him, the closer that pulls his whole set together, and what sets his hometown apart from its neighbour.
How would you describe your comedy style?
High-energy, quick-witted comedy blending sharp, honest material with spontaneous riffing and crowd work. A mix of crafted jokes and unpredictable moments that keeps every show fresh.
Who are some of your influences?
Sebastian Maniscalco. Don Rickles. Robin Williams. Norm Macdonald. Dave Chappelle.
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
As a kid, Jim Carrey. I loved In Living Colour growing up. Then, Dave Chappelle when I got into stand-up in the early 2000s. I watched Killin’ Them Softly so many times I could recite the entire set.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
Geoffrey Asmus. His style is exactly the north star of what I try to achieve on stage: unpredictable, witty, exciting and well-written.
What is your pre-show ritual?
In the car, I’m listening to 90s dance music. When I get to the show, I’m chatting with comics. Closer to the show, I’m making observations about the room, the city, the people, and making mental notes of things I can riff on. During the show, I’m watching the other comics and listening for audience names and bits so I can build on them when I get on stage.
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
Absolute Comedy Toronto. To me, it’s home. It’s where I’ve grown as a performer, and the place I’ve had some of the best moments of my career.
What is your favourite bit you have written and why were you proud of it?
My closer. It brings together everything I’ve established throughout my set, both as a person and a stage character. It slowly unravels through a story about a woman I met on the internet, culminating in something truly ridiculous. The perfect ending, leaving the audience thinking, “Yes, that makes sense. This man is lost and in control at the same time.”
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comics/comedians?
Instagram or YouTube. Nothing better than aimlessly scrolling your phone until you uncover a new comic, watch a bunch of their reels, and then give them a follow.
Tell us a joke about your city.
I’m Italian, and I am from Stoney Creek. Naturally, I look like I sell cologne out of the trunk of my car.
Do you have anything to promote right now?
I’ll be working with Frank Spadone November 20thand 21st at the Yuk Yuks in Niagara Falls.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?
Eric Johnston. A good friend, touring partner, and one of the best hours of comedy you need to see.
Madison Cassaday. A dual threat. Killing it in the sketch comedy game online and a very funny stand-up comic. A good dude.
