In the state of Massachusetts, which is known for its smart comedians, Joe Wong stands out from the pack. 6 time winner of the Lizard Lounge weekly comedy contest in Cambridge, MA, finalist in the Boston International Comedy and Film Festival, and winner of the Third Annual Great American Comedy Festival are among many of Joe’s achievements.
Joe Wong is a Chinese immigrant who hails from Jilin, China. He immigrated to American in 1994 to attend Rice University in Texas. Since moving to Boston in 2001, Joe has attracted nationwide attention and has become a favorite on the Ellen DeGeneres Show, the Late Show with David Letterman, and has headlined for the annual dinner hosted by the Radio and Television Correspondents’ Association, performing for the Vice President, Joe Biden, and receiving a standing ovation for his comedy.
Wong’s unconventional, original, and inspired humor reaches out to audiences of all different age groups and cultural persuasions. His work includes his personal experiences, ethnic and cultural differences, and social and political observations. Joe is able to tell his jokes from the standpoint of both an insider as well as an outsider, having immigrated to America in his adult life. Joe Wong currently performs in sold out shows at major comedy clubs and colleges throughout the country, along with benefits and corporate events.
Interview conducted by: Gloria Tu
1. Who are you?
Very existential question. I can answer that by the use of a Venn Diagram with 2 circles: 1. Guy whose name is Joe Wong 2. Professional standup comedian.
2. What do you identify yourself as? (Nouns such as- father, comedian, Chinese, etc.)
An Asian-American comedian with a wife and a 3 year old son.
3. When did you start learning English?
In middle school as part of the curriculum.
4. How old were you when you first came to the U.S.?
I was 24.
5. What did you come to the U.S. for?
To study Biochemistry and become a professor.
More of our exclusive interview to be revealed soon.
