Today we’d like to introduce you to LeeAnn Tooker.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I spent my younger years pursuing dance and acting. During which, I often heard from people – friends, coworkers, strangers – that I should do stand-up comedy.
I’d always loved stand-up comedy but was certain that it was too hard, that being funny at a party was a far different thing than being funny on stage, and that it wasn’t my thing. So, I got a degree in theater with a minor in dance and moved to LA… where my first acting teacher suggested, I’d be good at stand-up. It’s funny how others can see something about you that you don’t recognize about yourself.
I had always enjoyed making my friends laugh at the lunch table, but from the first time I was on stage making people laugh, I was hooked. I’ve been doing stand-up for nine years now, and I’ve grown a lot in my comedy writing and performance. Also, stand-up has helped me look at things more honestly, and that’s done a lot for my personal growth.
Has it been a smooth road?
As with most things worth pursuing, there have been challenges. I think it’s difficult for anyone to pursue their passion wholeheartedly while also taking care of themselves financially, and that’s certainly true in LA. That struggle can make it difficult to have life balance. Stand-up comedy presents its own obstacles and challenges too – crappy gigs, late nights, being broke, hecklers, self-doubt, etc., but the cool thing about comedy is that it can help us cope with life’s obstacles by laughing about them.
We’d love to hear more about what you do.
I perform stand-up regularly in comedy clubs, casinos, bars, festivals, (a party boat once!) and at the occasional family reunion. I’m blessed with a job that offers me the flexibility to pursue my comedic and acting career and still keep me in cat food. I’ve had some fun highlights and am continually seeking ways to stretch myself artistically.
I have a role in a comedic web series being released in February, and I’m looking forward to a couple of upcoming acting projects. There are lots of moments from shows that I remember fondly and milestones that I’ve achieved. I’ve made some great friendships and memories, but I think the thing I am most proud of so far was just this past December when I released my first comedy album. It was one of my best decisions!
The motivation came out of a sort of mid-life crisis moment – I was picturing myself late in life, in a nursing home, telling the young nurse about my stand-up days… and she didn’t believe me! (I’m a real positive daydreamer). And I thought, well if I have an album out there, I’ll have proof! (So silly) Regardless of the motivation, I’m really glad that I made this album. I think it’s relatable and funny. I’m proud of it and excited to share it!
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and the least?
Naturally, I love that LA offers so many entertainment opportunities. I also enjoy the history of the city – the older buildings and architecture.
I’m from Texas, and I feel like there was always new construction rather than rehabilitation of the old, so I think it’s nice that you can see the past in Los Angeles.
And of course, I love the weather. I’d say the least redeeming quality of LA is the cost of living here. I think rental rates are CRAZY and I’m lucky I only have to support me and my cat. 🙂
Contact Info:
- Website: leeanntooker.com
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/leeanntooker/
- Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/FunnyLeeAnnTooker/
- Twitter: http://twitter.com/leeanntooker
- Other: https://leeanntooker.hearnow.com/
Image Credit:
@WebTechWorks
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
