The Lucy Show: A Celebration of Diversity and Comedy
Nestled on Montreal’s bustling Saint Laurent Boulevard lies a hidden gem known as The Wiggle Room—a venue steeped in cabaret charm, burlesque feathers and wayward rhinestones. It’s here, under the flicker of dimmed lights and the promise of a delicious, crafted cocktail, that Lucy Gervais unfolds their monthly extravaganza, this edition aptly dubbed The Lucy Show: Girls, Gays, and Theys!
The evening begins with an embrace from Lucy —a performer whose on-stage persona seamlessly blends with their off-stage authenticity. As a seasoned comedian, Lucy's journey from studying comedy to hosting their own show is a testament to their unwavering presence and magnetic charm. their vision for The Lucy Show is crystal clear: to create a space where comedy and burlesque converge in celebration of queer voices, each show a vibrant ode to community and self-expression.
Flame Fatale, a “Devilishly Divine Burlesque and Fire Artist,” ignites the stage with performances that defy my expectations. Lucy curates a lineup where every stand-up deluges the room with laughter. This includes Eva Alexo, who radiates positivity with tales of self-discovery, while headliner Andrew Khoury fearlessly dives into taboo topics, shattering norms with every punchline.
But The Lucy Show is more than just entertainment—it’s a vital platform for LGBTQIA+ visibility in comedy. Lucy’s dedication to showcasing queer and trans voices ensures that each show is a celebration of diversity, a microcosm of Pride that resonates month after month.
“It’s Pride every month,” Lucy beams, their voice echoing the sentiment of a community hungry for fuller representation and substantive joy. The Wiggle Room, with its old-world charm and intimate ambiance, provides the perfect backdrop for Lucy’s vision. Here, amidst the intimate space and strong (or virgin) cocktails, performers and audience members alike find alliance in laughter and acceptance.
Beyond the stage, Lucy’s journey as a producer is a testament to resilience and artistic passion. From navigating the complexities of show production to pushing boundaries in comedy, she’s carved a niche in which authenticity reigns supreme. Their one-person show, Lucy Gervais Has a Guardian Angel, blended autobiography with bravado, a testament to a life lived boldly despite its challenges. The guardian angel and the Grim Reaper tussle over their fate as she confronts mortality in a humorous yet poignant exploration of life’s precariousness.
"I wrote a one-person show that was a half-hour, autobiographical, sort-of stand-up style, but more storytelling than set-ups and punchlines," Lucy reflects. "I really wanted to talk about near-death experiences and times in my life when I took too many risks with my own safety."
In conversation, Lucy’s enthusiasm for their craft is palpable. “I found a home at The Wiggle Room,” she shares, “where audiences embrace the eclectic mix of comedy, burlesque, and everything in between.” Their aspirations for The Lucy Show extend beyond its current success; she envisions a future of higher visibility, perhaps even as a filmed podcast—a testament to their ambition and the demand for more inclusive comedy spaces.
As the night unfolds, it becomes clear why The Lucy Show is a must-see event in Montreal’s cultural landscape. It’s not just about entertainment; it’s about empowerment and the unapologetic celebration of queer identity. Lucy Gervais, with their infectious energy and unwavering commitment to their craft, has created more than just a show. She is leading a movement.
"In the world of comedy, we need more queer voices, more diverse perspectives," Lucy asserts. "We’re here to laugh, to challenge, and to celebrate. This is more than a show; it’s a statement."
Every laugh is a triumph, every performer fearless, and every audience member a part of something much bigger than themselves. In a world hungry for authenticity and acceptance, Lucy Gervais and The Wiggle Room offer a sanctuary where laughter knows no bounds and pride is perennial.
Expanding the Celebration: Lucy’s Inspirations and Vision
Lucy Gervais’s journey through the comedy world has been shaped by a myriad of influences, from trailblazing performers to personal heroes who embody the spirit of unapologetic authenticity. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Tig Notaro, whose understated storytelling captivates audiences, and Wanda Sykes, whose social commentary sparks laughter and reflection, Lucy aims to create a stage where diverse voices resonate with force.
“I admire comedians who push boundaries and challenge norms,” Lucy reflects. “They inspire me to elevate the voices that often go unheard in mainstream comedy.”
In their producing endeavors, Lucy’s foray into the scene began at Toronto’s Underground Café, a pre-legalization pot comedy club owned by the legendary Puff Mama. Despite initial challenges, including what she describes as a “bit of a train wreck” for their first production, Lucy remained undeterrable.
“It was a wild ride,” Lucy admits, reflecting on the early days. “But it taught me invaluable lessons about resilience and the art of creating memorable shows.”
Back in Montreal, The Wiggle Room has become Lucy’s creative playground—a venue where comedy and burlesque intertwine in a celebration of artistic expression. With aspirations to expand their show, Lucy envisions a future where The Lucy Show becomes a beacon for queer-centric comedy on an even grander scale.
Looking ahead, Lucy sees their monthly event evolving into a multimedia experience, perhaps even venturing into filmed formats or podcast episodes. Such ambitions are fueled by Lucy’s unwavering belief in the power of comedy to provoke thought and inspire change. “Comedy has this amazing ability to connect people and challenge perceptions,” Lucy muses. “I want The Lucy Show to be a place where laughter is not just entertainment, but a catalyst for social dialogue.”
A Testament to Resilience and Vision
Lucy Gervais’s journey—from their early days in stand-up to becoming a pivotal figure in Montreal’s comedy scene—is a testament to resilience and artistic vision. In their work, she has crafted more than just a series of performances; she has forged a community where laughter transcends barriers and celebrates diversity.
As The Wiggle Room continues to host Lucy’s monthly spectacle, audiences can expect more than just entertainment. They can anticipate an experience where laughter is a force for change, and where every performer shines a light on the richness of queer identity.
“At The Lucy Show, we’re rewriting the script on comedy,” Lucy asserts. “It’s not just about making people laugh; it’s about making them think, feel, and connect. That’s the true magic of what we do.”
In a world hungry for authenticity and acceptance, Lucy Gervais and The Lucy Show stand as lanterns of hope—a reminder that laughter knows no bounds and pride is perennial.
The next installment of The Lucy Show is on Sunday, August 11th. Buy your tickets HERE.