Shawn Cuthand has no interest in making you comfortable — and that’s exactly what makes him so good. With a style that blends sharp storytelling, absurdist slice-of-life observations, and a gift for evoking well-earned white guilt, Shawn brings a perspective to the stage that is distinctly and unapologetically his own. Shaped by Eddie Murphy on VHS and Adam Sandler CDs, and sharpened by years in the Canadian comedy scene, he’s the kind of comic who can turn a childhood memory into a political gut-punch without you seeing it coming.
How would you describe your comedy style?
I would say my comedy style is part storytelling, part silly and absurd — slice-of-life stuff that tends to invoke a little white guilt.
Who are some of your influences?
Marc Maron, Chris Rock, Bill Burr, Anjelah Johnson. There also used to be a podcast produced by Redban called the Icehouse Chronicles, which took place in the green room of a comedy club, and comedians would join the conversation after their set. That really got me interested in the world of stand-up comedy.
Who was your favourite comedian growing up?
Eddie Murphy on VHS, Adam Sandler’s comedy CDs, and Pablo Francisco.
Who is your favourite comedian now?
I really like what Josh Johnson is doing right now — he releases YouTube specials about current events. Otherwise, it’s Annie Lederman, Stavros Halkias, Katt Williams. I know I’ll think of more names way later.
What is your pre-show ritual?
I usually just try to memorize my set list in my head, which makes me very socially awkward at the show. You can also tell how seriously I’m taking a show by how tight my braid is — ooh la la.
What is your favourite place you have performed? Why?
For a comedy club, I’d say Wee Jonny’s — even though I once got to perform on the Kill Tony stage at the Comedy Store, but that wasn’t good. I bombed worse than an M-80 under an overpass. I feel like I always had a fun set at Wee Jonny’s in Winnipeg, but sadly, it no longer exists.
What is your favourite bit you have written and why are you proud of it?
I have a bit about John A. Macdonald that really gets the crowd going. It takes something innocent from my childhood and turns it into a big political statement.
What is your favourite medium for listening to or finding new comedians?
Definitely YouTube. I like to watch shows like Stand Up on the Spot and Roast Battle and follow comedians’ content and specials.
Tell us a joke about your city.
You could play Squid Game in Saskatoon — all you’d need to do is put on a black-and-white tracksuit, walk on the west side, and try not to get jumped.
Do you have anything to promote right now?
The Feather News is on APTN Tuesday nights, and if you’re ever in Saskatoon, check out our open mic show Sunday Night Heat at Art Bar.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: Who is another local comic/comedian we should know about?
@shysapp — and not just because we’re from the same rez! And my bros @hanoverknight and @moccasincomedy. Also, shoutout to @mcwilliams_comedy — he wants the followers!
