New Stand-Up Comediennes Set to Shine in the Philippines
In a country where female stand-up comedians are few and far between, two emerging talents are set to make their mark on the comedy scene. Meet Diana Aaron and Jeannie Lacay, who will take the stage this Wednesday, Oct. 18, and bring their unique brand of humor to audiences.
Diana Aaron, also known as Di, is often mistaken for a sophisticated “konyo” but identifies herself as a “dyologs.” She describes herself as kengkoy, carefree about the usual superficialities that many girls worry about. Diana discovered her passion for stand-up comedy during the pandemic, finding it to be a therapeutic outlet amidst the uncertainty. Inspired by comedians such as Miss Giselle, Mitch Valdez, and Ellen DeGeneres, Diana joined Comedy Manila’s online workshop and open mics to hone her skills. At 40 years old, she proves that it’s never too late to pursue your passions. With a background in marketing and sales, Diana brings a wealth of life experience to her comedy, touching on topics such as social classes, Pinoy culture, generational differences, womanhood, motherhood, marriage, aging, and death. Through her comedy, she aims to speak out and stand up for women in a male-dominated field.
Jeannie Lacay, on the other hand, began her comedy journey as a fangirl of renowned stand-up comedian GB Labrador. Wanting to understand her comedian boyfriend better, Jeannie decided to give stand-up comedy a try. She did her first open mic in Katipunan and immediately fell in love with it. Jeannie mainly performs in Filipino or Taglish for younger audiences but also showcases her sets in English during gigs abroad. Although she jokingly admits that sticking with her husband is partly motivated by his funnier nature and financial stability, Jeannie is determined to establish herself in the comedy industry and provide for her family. Her comedy revolves around self-deprecating humor, her experience as a flight attendant, her role as a wife and mother, being a woman, and her observations of the world around her.
Both Diana and Jeannie are excited to bring their fresh comedic perspectives to the stage. In a field dominated by male comedians, these women aspire to add their unique voices and perspectives to the comedy scene. Diana will be performing in “Lady Boses: Women of Power” at Wicked Dogs in Uptown Parade on Oct. 18 and “Spooky Comedy with Stanley Chi” on Oct. 28 at Hobby Stadium in New Manila, Quezon City. Jeannie has regular open mic shows every Tuesday at Wicked Dogs BGC, every Wednesday on Mow’s Matalino St., and every Thursday at Gighouse Muntinlupa.
As an experienced stand-up comedian herself, the writer wishes Diana and Jeannie the best of luck in their chosen field. May they make fellow female stand-up comediennes proud with their performances!
