Seven years on, Prakash is still performing stand-up comedy (Photo: Prakash Daniel)
How did you get into comedy?
I was always a big fan of comedy. I used to watch loads of local comedians performing at the Time Out KL monthly shows held at the old Zouk in Jalan Ampang. I became friends with Kavin Jay and he mentioned that a new open mic room called “One Mic Stand” had started in PJ and invited me to try it out. He said if I didn’t like it, I had nothing to lose. So, I gathered my courage and went on stage and after that, I got bitten by the comedy bug. Seven years on, I am still performing stand-up comedy.
Where do you draw inspiration from for your comedy shows?
I draw inspiration from my life. Over the years, I have realised that comedy works best for me when I speak about things close to my heart, which include my parents, my beard and things that happened to me as an Indian guy growing up in Malaysia.
What is Beautiful all about and how is it different from your other shows?
Beautiful is about the things that I find uniquely special. The show will look at my career as a photographer, my love for my parents as well as other relationships. It will showcase some of my photography work and be accompanied by a talented musician. It is also the first time I am doing things a bit differently, content-wise. I am trying to break out from my usual style.
What are your thoughts on Malaysia’s comedy scene?
The Malaysian comedy scene is constantly growing. Ten years ago, there were only a handful of comedians. I can safely say more comedians have come along. The scene is also getting bigger as local audiences are beginning to enjoy stand-up comedy.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in comedy?
My only advice is to be consistent. Keep coming to open mics and test your material thoroughly. There is no shortcut. I know many people call themselves comedians on social media but it takes more than being a social media influencer to be one because stand-up comedy has to be done in front of a live audience. The instant approval from a live audience can’t be replaced by making someone laugh through a screen!
Catch 'Beautiful' on Sept 14 at PJ Live Arts, Jaya One, 72A Jalan Universiti, Petaling Jaya, from 8pm to 10pm. Visit www.peatix.com to purchase tickets.
