Maria Bamford Follows the Love

September 1, 2016
By Rachael E. Worthington

Comedian Maria Bamford’s specialty is getting on stage and telling stories about some of life’s most awkward moments, which she’ll do in her signature style at the Lincoln Center this month.

Awarded the 2016 ‘Breakout Comedy Star of the Year’ at the esteemed Just for Laughs Festival, Bamford is the first female comedian to star in two Comedy Central specials. She also voices numerous characters on popular animated shows like Netflix’s “BoJack Horseman” and Cartoon Network’s “Adventure Time.”

Bamford’s latest role as “Lady Dynamite,” a semi-autobiographical comedy about her journey back into entertainment and her struggles with Bipolar disorder, has received critical acclaim for bringing light to the stigma of mental illness.

From a young age Bamford has been inclined towards humor, initially experimenting with her voices as a child. “I did it as a result of wanting to impersonate my mom as well as get attention,” she said; but she’s continued to use them to enhance her storytelling rather than her repertoire.

“I really liked and still love comedians and it felt natural to go to open mics, I looked forward to it,” Bamford says. She was drawn to pursue comedy professionally because of the sense of community and comradery: “It just seemed to be where the love was, where I belonged.”

Her best tip for aspiring comedians? “I guess the same thing I’ve experienced — go where the love is — where you feel inspired.” She went on to say that if such a place can’t be found, create it. If someone creates something original, people are bound to take notice.

It also doesn’t help to be overly competitive — “be kind to yourself and others. It’s frightening to put your work out there and everybody is in the same boat,” she says.

“The beauty, the clean air and performing with my best friend [and opener] Jackie Kashian!” are what excites her most about performing in Fort Collins. Recently married, Bamford said the audience should expect “Love/hope soundscapes” in the upcoming show.

See Bamford live Sunday, Sept. 11, 7 p.m. at the Lincoln Center. Tickets are available at LCtix.com for $32.50.