At 67, comedian Lisa-Gay Tremblay is proving that retirement doesn’t have to be the end. With a conversational, interactive style built around crowd work and sharp observations, Tremblay has found a way to make even mortality funny. Inspired by comics like Joan Rivers and Rodney Dangerfield, she brings an honesty and warmth to the stage. From opening for Dionne Warwick at Ottawa’s National Arts Centre to preparing to release her debut comedy album, Unretired, Tremblay is embracing this next chapter and finding plenty to laugh about. We spoke with her to learn more.
How would you describe your comedy style?
I’d describe my comedy as conversational and interactive. I love doing crowd work and weaving it into my material, so every show feels unique. The audience isn’t just watching the show—they become part of it.
I tell stories drawn from real life, aging, relationships, and the absurd things we all experience. My goal is to make people feel like they’re spending an evening with a funny friend, where anything can happen and everyone leaves feeling a little better than when they arrived.
Who are some of your influences?
My biggest influences are Joan Rivers, Rodney Dangerfield…and, apparently, a lot of dead people.
I love comics who weren’t afraid to tell the truth, push boundaries, and make audiences laugh with sharp observations about everyday life. They taught me that if you’re honest and funny, your material never goes out of style—even if you do.
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
Growing up, I didn’t really watch stand-up comedians. I was more drawn to shows like Laugh-In and The Carol Burnett Show.
Ruth Buzzi was one of my favourites on Laugh-In, and the cast of The Carol Burnett Show was incredible—Carol Burnett, Harvey Korman, Tim Conway, Vicki Lawrence, and Lyle Waggoner were all comedy geniuses. Watching those shows taught me the power of character, timing, and the joy of making people laugh.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
That’s a tough question because there are so many incredibly talented comedians working today. If I had to name a few, I’d say, Dave Chappelle, Chris Rock, Chelsea Handler, and Sarah Millican.
What they all have in common is that they have distinctive voices and aren’t afraid to be themselves. They keep evolving, they tell the truth from their own perspective, and they make it look effortless—which, of course, it isn’t!
What is your pre-show ritual?
My pre-show ritual always starts with a nap. At my age, it’s not optional—it’s part of the act.
Before a show, I keep things quiet. I go over my set list, don’t talk much, and I never drink alcohol beforehand. I also make a point of watching the show from the very beginning. I want to get a feel for the room, see how the audience is responding, and listen to what the MC learns about them—birthdays, anniversaries, celebrations, all those little details. It helps me know who I’m talking to and makes the crowd work feel natural. Every audience is different, and I love tailoring the show to the people in the room.
What is your favourite place you performed? Why?
I think the most meaningful place I’ve ever performed was the National Arts Centre, opening for Dionne Warwick.
I was still fairly new to comedy, and it felt surreal. As a kid growing up in Ottawa, I’d toured the National Arts Centre on a school field trip. I remember looking at that stage and never imagining I’d one day be standing on it, performing. To go from being a kid in the audience to walking out under those lights was one of those full-circle moments I’ll never forget.
What is your favourite bit you have written and why you’re proud of it?
My favourite bit right now is about buying my mother an urn for her 89th birthday. Before anyone gets upset, she’s still very much alive. I was looking at this beautiful urn and thought, I could really see her in it.
I also love my material about obituaries. They always say someone “died unexpectedly.” Really? He was 93. At that point, it’s not unexpected—it’s just good time management.
I love these bits because they let people laugh at the things we’re usually too polite to talk about. If an audience is laughing about aging and mortality, I know we’re having a good night.
What is your favourite medium for listening or finding new comedians?
I discover a lot of comedians on SiriusXM Holdings and Netflix, but honestly, my favourite place to find new talent is still a comedy club.
There’s nothing like seeing a comedian live. You can feel the energy in the room, watch them work the crowd, and see material evolve in real time. That’s where comedy is at its best—unfiltered, unpredictable, and happening right in front of you.
Tell us a joke about your city?
I flew into Toronto Pearson Airport and looked around thinking, “Did I accidentally book a connection to Mumbai?”
Is India empty?
Do you have anything to promote right now?
Yes! I’m very excited to be releasing my first comedy album, Unretired, on Canada Day, July 1, in Ottawa.
The title says it all. I thought I was retired, but it turns out I just had to take a break. Now I’m back, I’m 67, and I’m having more fun than ever. If Unretired proves anything, it’s that you’re never too old to chase a dream—or make questionable career decisions.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comedian we should know about?
I’d recommend Cathy Boyd. She’s another old broad, so of course I love her. Her style is wonderfully dry, her writing is excellent, and she’s one of those comics who can get a huge laugh with just a look or a perfectly timed line. She’s definitely someone people should check out.
