Jonathan Van Ness, known for their infectious personality on Queer Eye and their popular podcast Getting Curious, is taking their comedy to the stage at the Lil Rhody Laugh Riot festival in Providence, Rhode Island, on March 29. Ahead of their performance speaking with Gayety, Van Ness shared insights into their approach to stand-up comedy, the importance of LGBTQ+ representation, and how they use humor to navigate life’s challenges.
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For Van Ness, stand-up comedy offers a unique opportunity to connect with audiences in a way that differs significantly from their other projects. “Stand-up is by far the most exhilarating of all because it’s just about making people laugh,” they explained. While Queer Eye and Getting Curious offer platforms to discuss deeper, more personal topics, stand-up allows Van Ness to fully express their comedic personality. “I think my stand-up is the most full version of my personality I ever get to show,” they said. “I love taking people for a joy-filled ride to JVN town.”
Van Ness’s approach to preparing for a comedy set differs from their other endeavors. “I usually start my material at comedy clubs and then warm up into larger venues,” they said. “A one-hour set can take a couple of years to perfect.” They revealed that they keep a note in their phone to store ideas, which they refine into full shows. “Before taking it to the stage, I try to get it as comfortable and the timing as perfect as I can,” they added. For them, it’s all about the joy of the performance and the connection with the audience.
The Lil Rhody Laugh Riot festival features a diverse range of comedic talent, and Van Ness is thrilled to be part of the lineup. “I’m such a fan of Leslie Jones, she is so major,” Van Ness said. “There are so many comedians whose work blows my mind. I can’t wait to hit up some of the other shows.” The festival, which brings together a wide array of comic voices, provides an exciting opportunity for fans to see different styles and perspectives in one place.
Known for their candidness and humor on Queer Eye and their podcast, Van Ness promises their stand-up set will offer fans a chance to see a different side of them. “Stand-up is where I get to be much more unapologetically queer, brash, and take risks,” they said. “I think my stand-up audience gets a little surprise.” The comedic risk-taking is something Van Ness relishes, allowing them to push boundaries and share their unapologetic, bold humor with the crowd.
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A significant part of Van Ness’s stand-up routine draws from their own life experiences, including their journey living with HIV and overcoming struggles with addiction. They use humor to destigmatize these issues and encourage others to seek support. “Living with HIV and various struggles with addiction are things I joke a lot about in my stand-up,” they said. “I hope that allows people to feel less stigma, learn, and ultimately ask for help. Because sometimes even us strong divas need some support.” Van Ness’s comedy serves as a reminder that even in tough situations, laughter can be a healing tool.
When asked about the message they hope to convey during their performance, Van Ness was clear: “That healing is messy, so are we, and we are meant to laugh it out when things get shitty, otherwise, what’s the hope of keeping going?” Their comedic approach emphasizes the importance of resilience and humor when facing life’s difficulties, inviting the audience to join them in celebrating the messy, unpredictable nature of healing.
As an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, Van Ness sees comedy as a way to foster visibility, celebrate diversity, and create a safe space for people to be themselves. “Through building a community of hot, smart people,” they said, reflecting their belief that humor can empower others and bring people together. Their stand-up performance at the Lil Rhody Laugh Riot festival further cements their commitment to using their platform to uplift and inspire.
Van Ness’s podcast, Getting Curious, explores a variety of topics, ranging from self-care to societal issues. While they promise to bring a funnier version of their podcast content to the stage, they noted that their stand-up will dive into these themes with a comedic twist. “Yes, but funnier,” they quipped, teasing their fans with what to expect from their performance.
Reflecting on their own journey into comedy, Van Ness shared a piece of advice for aspiring LGBTQ+ performers: “Getting started is the hardest part, but in the words of Sheryl Lee Ralph from Sister Act 2, if when you wake up in the morning and all you can do is think about singing, then you’re a singer girl. Well, replace that with comedy and there you go, queen.” Their encouragement underscores the importance of perseverance and passion when pursuing a career in comedy.
Live performances are an integral part of Van Ness’s appeal, and they thrive on the unpredictable energy of an in-person crowd. “You never know what’s going to happen, and I just feed on that crowd’s energy,” they said. “Let’s go, queens!” Van Ness’s enthusiasm for live shows reflects their belief in the power of connection, laughter, and the communal experience of a comedy festival.
Looking ahead, Van Ness is excited about their future projects. “I’ll be on tour with this set through the end of the year and can’t wait to keep developing this material and turn it into my second special,” they said. In addition, they are eagerly anticipating more developments for their JVN Hair line. “We are doing such good hair and have lots of exciting new additions to find your best hair no matter what we’re going through.”
Jonathan Van Ness will perform at the Lil Rhody Laugh Riot comedy festival on Saturday, March 29, in Providence, Rhode Island. Tickets are available now at LilRhodyLaughRiot.com.
