Samira Banks: ‘My stand-up comedy is just a representation of myself’

GIRL power is set to dominate the stand-up comedy scene as LOL: Ladies of Laughter embarks on another UK tour later this month.

The immensely popular shows masterminded by Luv Entertainment bring together established names together with exciting newcomers such as Samira Banks. She will be part of an actionpacked line up at the tour’s opening show, which takes place at Kenneth More Theatre in Ilford next Friday (26).

Eastern Eye caught up with the fearless young talent to talk all things comedy and the tour led by female comics.

How did you first connect with standup comedy?

I don’t remember the first time I watched a stand-up performance, but growing up in a Middle Eastern family, humour has always been a big part of our life. Especially witty remarks from mothers, aunts and grandmothers - they always have a joke about you up their sleeve, which is usually a bit too close to the truth!

What do you most remember about your first stand-up comedy gig?

I remember feeling very nervous and almost refusing to go on. Luckily, I had a friend with me who threatened to never talk to me again if I didn’t – and the rest is history.

 How do you feel being on stage in front of a live audience?

It is always a thrill. Every audience is different, and it is so much fun getting to know what an audience is like, what mood they are in and what kind of jokes they prefer. It is lovely.

 How enthusiastic are you about performing on the Ladies Of Laughter show?

I am really looking forward to it. It is so rare to be on a line-up consisting of just ladies. I already know it is going to be a great time.

 How does it feel to be on a line-up with other stand-up comedians?

The Ladies of Laughter line up is sublime. There are comedians on that lineup that I have genuinely been a fan of for years. I can’t wait to perform alongside them.

 How would you describe your brand of stand-up comedy?

I would say my stand-up comedy is just a representation of myself, which is a little bit awkward, dark and sometimes just silly. I think I say things people wouldn’t expect to hear from me.

How much of your set is inspired by your own life?

All of it pretty much. More than I would like to admit. Sometimes word for word.

Do you sometimes feel like you are revealing too much on stage?

(Laughs) Oh yes, definitely!

Who is your own comedy hero?

I love Poppy and Rubina. Their podcast, Brown Girls Do It Too, was a gamechanger for me, and something that really encouraged me to come out of my shell and dare to speak about things that, in my culture, women are not generally encouraged to speak about in public.

Who is the funniest person you know in real life?

It would have to be my cousin. And it is usually when she is giving me her opinion on my taste in men. She does not hold back – it is a constant roast battle.

Well, not much of a roast battle, just her roasting me.

 I can’t complain; she is hilarious. What inspires you?

Definitely, the women in my family who I grew up around. They have overcome so many adversities and built lives full of love and laughter despite it.

Why should we all come to watch the Ladies Of Laughter show?

Personally, I think it sounds like a dream – ladies and laughter. What more could you want? I can’t wait.

LOL: Ladies Of Laughter is on next Friday (26) at Kenneth More Theatre, Oakfield Road, Ilford IG1 1BT. www.luventertainment.co.uk