Today we’d like to introduce you to Ala Bama.
Hi Ala, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I was born and raised in Talladega, Alabama and start to pursue a comedy career in 2000, while moving to Baltimore, Maryland. I went to an open mic comedy spot called “Winchester’s” where I did a 5-minute spot and was well-received on my first time on a comedy stage. I was invited to another local open mic(five seasons) on the following week and did well also. I later was asked to open the comedy night @ the five seasons. That allowed me to get better as a comedian and the behind the scenes business side of show business. Fast forward I became the emcee and top comedian for the Baltimore comedy factory from 2004 till the present.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Many struggles as far as trying to pursue a dream and keep your personal life in check. I have sacrificed a marriage, friendships and relationship to keep a dream and goal in sight. Also when you first start during comedy, you’re not getting paid a lot of money and you just hope to get on shows and get better so you are able to get booked on shows and make some “change” to pay a bill. Show business isn’t for the weak lol.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a stand-up comedian/writer. I’ve been part of a comedy club in Baltimore (Baltimore comedy factory) for the better part of 20 years. I not only perform as a talent, I book acts to perform there. I have worked with some of the tip comedians to ever step on stage. From all the Wayans brothers, George Lopez, Dick Gregory, Paul Mooney, Drew Carey. Opening up and getting to talk and work on my comedy craft with comedy legends makes me very proud. Been able to not only take care of my business off stage, I’m also a hell of a comedic performer which separates me from everyone.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
When I first call the Baltimore comedy factory for the first time in 2001, I ask the lady who answer the phone how do I get a chance to perform @ the comedy factory? She told me “we only hire professionals”!! And proceeded to hang up. I took that not as an insult, which is what it really was, but as a motivational tool and to pursue to be a “professional” comedian. Not only now I’m a professional comedian. I have also been helping run the same club for 17years. Don’t let nothing or nobody stop your goals.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @comedianalabama
- Twitter: @funnybama
Image Credits
Rashawn Gross-White
