Can a Trans Comedian Win at the Oscars of Comedy Without Getting Dirty?

Sam Nicoresti has made history by winning the prestigious Edinburgh Comedy Award (ECA), becoming the first trans person to achieve this accolade. Despite this remarkable milestone, she expresses discomfort with being labelled solely as a "trans comedian." Instead, her goal is to showcase her comedic talent beyond identity politics, using humour to tackle the everyday challenges of life.

Last updated: 27 September 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Sam Nicoresti is the first trans comedian to win the Edinburgh Comedy Award.
• Her award-winning show, Baby Doomer, offers relatable humour while discussing the trans experience.
• Sam prefers to focus on her comedic talent rather than being defined by her identity.
• She aims to engage audiences without dwelling on political issues related to being trans.
• Despite her success, she remains cautious about audience reactions and online discourse.

The Significance of the Edinburgh Comedy Award

The Edinburgh Comedy Award is often referred to as the "Oscars of comedy," with previous winners including celebrated figures like Stephen Fry and Frank Skinner. Winning this award is a significant achievement that can launch a comedian's career, offering them unprecedented visibility and opportunities.

For Sam, this award serves as a "body shock," a feeling she is still grappling with. Competing against approximately 3,000 acts makes this recognition even more extraordinary, highlighting her unique voice in the comedy scene.

Sam's Journey to Recognition

Sam's journey into the spotlight has been marked by her desire to present a comedic perspective that goes beyond identity. In her show, Baby Doomer, she shares her experiences with a light-hearted approach, using laughter to convey the struggles of being a trans person in a society that often politicises their existence.

Her comedic style is characterised by its relatability and authenticity. Instead of focusing solely on her identity, Sam incorporates her life experiences into her humour. This approach resonates with audiences, allowing them to connect with her on a deeper level.

Humour in the Face of Adversity

In Baby Doomer, Sam recounts the amusing anecdote of trying on a skirt suit in TKMaxx, a situation that escalates into a hilarious tale of struggle. However, the show is not merely about humorous mishaps; it delves into the nuanced challenges faced by trans individuals, all while maintaining a comedic tone.

Sam's ability to blend humour with serious themes sets her apart. Rather than engaging in political debates or tear-jerking narratives, she opts for a style that puts the human experience at the forefront, making her comedy accessible and enjoyable for a wide audience.

Resisting Labels and Embracing Authenticity

Despite the accolades and recognition, Sam expresses discomfort with the label of being a "trans comedian." She feels that such labels can lead to assumptions about her comedy and the themes she covers. "I’m not the weird one, as far as I’m concerned," she states, highlighting her desire to be seen as a comedian first and foremost.

This reluctance to embrace a singular identity is rooted in her belief that comedy should transcend labels. Sam aims to prove that her humour can stand on its own, irrespective of her identity as a trans woman. She wants her audience to appreciate her work for its comedic value rather than her personal narrative.

Confronting the Online Discourse

Sam acknowledges the existence of negative online discourse surrounding her and her experiences as a trans comedian. However, she chooses not to engage with it, stating, "I don’t read things about myself. Why would I? I am myself." This resolute stance allows her to focus on her craft and the positive aspects of her career.

As she transitions into a broader audience, moving beyond the "queer little niche" of alternative comedy, Sam is aware that exposure can bring challenges. "I’ve been more worried about getting the broadsheet readers in," she admits, highlighting her concerns about potential hecklers and disruptive audience members.

The Future of Sam Nicoresti

With her Soho Theatre run of Baby Doomer continuing until late September, Sam is poised for further success. Her journey has only just begun, and she remains optimistic about the path ahead. "I’ve just got to keep on selling out a Soho Theatre run," she laughs, embracing the joy of her craft.

As Sam continues to navigate her career, her commitment to authenticity and humour remains unwavering. By sharing her experiences with laughter, she challenges stereotypes and encourages audiences to engage with trans narratives in a more humanised and relatable way.

Conclusion

Sam Nicoresti’s historic win at the Edinburgh Comedy Award is a testament to her talent and dedication to her craft. While she grapples with the implications of her success and the labels that come with it, her focus remains on making people laugh and sharing her unique perspective on life. As she continues her journey in the comedy world, it will be exciting to see how she influences the conversation around trans identities and humour.

With her fresh take on comedy, Sam is not just breaking barriers; she is redefining them. What will her next steps be, and how will her success inspire other comedians within the LGBTQ+ community? The future looks promising for Sam and her audience alike. #SamNicoresti #EdinburghComedyAward #LGBTQComedy

FAQs

Who is Sam Nicoresti?

Sam Nicoresti is a British comedian who recently became the first trans person to win the Edinburgh Comedy Award. She is known for her show Baby Doomer, which explores the trans experience through humour.

What is the Edinburgh Comedy Award?

The Edinburgh Comedy Award is a prestigious accolade in the comedy industry, often regarded as the "Oscars of comedy." It recognises outstanding performances at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

What is Baby Doomer about?

Baby Doomer is Sam Nicoresti's award-winning comedy show that combines humour with reflections on the challenges of being trans, while also touching on relatable life experiences.

How does Sam feel about being labelled as a trans comedian?

Sam expresses discomfort with being labelled solely as a "trans comedian," preferring to be recognised for her comedic talent rather than her identity. She aims to transcend such labels in her work.

What challenges does Sam face as a comedian?

As a comedian entering the mainstream, Sam faces potential audience hostility and negative online discourse. However, she remains focused on her craft and the positive aspects of her career.