Ksenia is a Russian-born, Los Angeles-based comedian, actress, singer and content creator. Known
for her straight-faced humour, she finds comedy in dating, cultural differences and everyday life. She
recently filmed her independently produced comedy special, Big Problems, at Dynasty Typewriter,
directed by Emmy winner Peter Chakos. She’s also working on new music and her musical comedy
show, Ready for Hollywood.
How did you get into comedy, writing and producing?
I think I was always kind of funny. I’d say what everyone else was thinking, and it would make people laugh out loud. But I did go to acting school, where they taught us how to write, produce and create our own projects. I also watched a lot of Woody Allen movies and really loved his comedy. So I started writing my own stuff and figuring out how to make it happen.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
Everyday life, especially men. My favourite topic. They keep giving me material. Dating, conversations, cultural differences – sometimes someone says something and I immediately think, “Okay, that’s a video.”
What advice would you give someone starting out in comedy?
I think training is important. I took a stand-up class with Lisa Sundstedt at Pretty Funny Women, and I have very funny mentors. You also need a point of view. What do you believe? What do you want to say? Then you have to get out there and do lots of open mics and shows. That’s how you learn.
Who are your favourite funny women?
I love Jennifer Coolidge. She’s hilarious. Sometimes it’s just the way she says one word or looks at someone. She has such a specific personality, and I love that.
What do you love about writing and producing your own comedy?
I love having control over it. I can write myself a role instead of waiting for somebody to give me one. I can have an idea and actually make it happen. And now I have a fan base who enjoys what I do, which makes it even more exciting to keep creating.
What are you working on, and what’s next?
My special, Big Problems, is in post-production now, and I’m excited for people to see it. Next up is
Ready for Hollywood, my musical comedy show about my journey from Russia to Hollywood. I still
need to write a couple more songs for it, so stay tuned for dates! I’m also going to release more
music. There’s always something!
Keep up with Ksenia’s latest projects, music and comedy updates by following her on Instagram.
