Let’s be real—Ottawa often gets a bad rap for being a sleepy government town, but the local comedy scene tells a completely different story. From packed open mics on Elgin Street to sold-out festival stages, the capital is quietly churning out some of the sharpest wit in the country.
Bringing in a pro comic does more than just kill time at an event; it completely changes the energy. Nothing breaks the ice at a stiff corporate mixer or a family reunion quite like shared laughter.
It turns a standard gathering into something people actually talk about the next day. If you are currently scouting comedians for hire in Ottawa, you are in luck—the talent pool here is deep, diverse, and ready to make your next event unforgettable.
Top 10 Comedians for Hire in Ottawa
Finding the right talent for your event can feel like a gamble, but the capital is packed with pros who know exactly how to work a room. Here is a look at some of the best comedians for hire in Ottawa to get your planning started.
Todd Van Allen
About: Todd is practically a fixture in the capital’s comedy circuit. You might recognize him as the host of the long-running podcast Comedy Above the Pub, or from his regular appearances at local venues.
He is a veteran performer who has mastered the art of entertaining audiences right here in the city.
Comedy Style: Todd specializes in observational storytelling that hits that sweet spot of being sharp but corporate-friendly. He often jokes about relationships, aging, and the absurdities of modern life, making him a very safe yet hilarious bet for mixed crowds at Ottawa events.
Rick Currie
About: If you have watched Canadian TV in the last two decades, you have probably heard Rick’s jokes, even if you didn’t realize it.
He spent years as a staff writer for The Rick Mercer Report and has been a staple on shows like CTV’s Comedy Now! and CBC’s The Debaters. He is an absolute pro who knows the craft inside out.
Comedy Style: Rick is known for a clean, whimsical style that works perfectly for just about any audience. He avoids the shock value stuff, preferring smart, relatable observations that everyone can enjoy.
This makes him one of the most reliable comedians ottawa has to offer for corporate gigs or family-friendly events where you need laughs without the worry.
Joe Laniel
About: You might know him better as “The Funny French Guy,” a nickname he has definitely earned. Joe is a firecracker on stage and one of the few performers who can crush a set in both official languages.
He brings a background in hip-hop and content creation to his comedy, meaning he knows exactly how to command attention and keep the energy high.
Comedy Style: Joe’s routine is fast-paced, energetic, and often plays on the unique cultural mashup of the region. He nails the “Franglais” struggle and the quirks of bilingual life that locals understand all too well.
If you are looking for comedians for hire in Ottawa who can cater to a mixed Francophone and Anglophone crowd without missing a beat, Joe is your guy.
Kyle Brownrigg
About: Kyle is a massive success story coming out of the Ottawa scene. He recently took home a Juno Award for Comedy Album of the Year and was named Best Breakout Artist at the Canadian Comedy Awards.
You may have seen him on Roast Battle Canada or The Debaters, where his quick wit is always on full display.
Comedy Style: Kyle is a powerhouse of energy. His storytelling is sharp, sarcastic, and often revolves around his loud, chaotic alter-ego, “Lyle.” His ability to command a room with fast-paced, relentless energy makes him one of the best comedians that you can hire in ottawa if you want an event that feels electric rather than polite.
Shelina Merani
About: Shelina is a true original in the local scene, bringing a perspective you won’t hear anywhere else. By day, she is a communications professional and union activist, but on stage, she is “Shelina Stand-Up,” a performer who uses humor to bridge cultural gaps.
Her background as a Muslim woman with East African and Indian roots gives her a deep well of unique stories that she shares with infectious energy.
Comedy Style: Shelina’s set is inclusive, high-energy, and focused on breaking down stereotypes through laughter. She tackles topics like identity, immigration, and family life with a warmth that draws everyone in. She is easily one of the most refreshing comedians for hire in Ottawa, perfect for events where you want comedy that connects people rather than dividing them.
Dave Joseph
About: Dave is a fantastic option for event planners who need a comedian that can appeal to just about anyone.
He has been a consistent presence in the Ottawa comedy scene, performing everywhere from local clubs like Absolute Comedy to private corporate functions and retirement homes. His background allows him to connect with diverse groups effortlessly.
Comedy Style: Dave is a master of relatable storytelling. His humor is accessible, grounded, and designed to make people feel comfortable rather than called out. Whether he is talking about family, work, or the daily grind, he frames it in a way that feels like you are sharing a laugh with an old friend. He is a safe, solid bet for wide audiences.
Fabio Ricci
About: Fabio is a local Ottawa boy who wears a lot of hats—filmmaker, commercial actor (you might recognize him as the “Guy Eating a Hamburger” in those A&W ads), and stand-up comic.
He grew up in a loud Italian household, which gives him endless material about family dynamics and cultural quirks.
Comedy Style: Fabio doesn’t just stand there and tell jokes; he makes the audience part of the show. His style is incredibly interactive and high-energy, making him perfect for private parties or lively corporate bashes where you want everyone involved. If you are looking for comedians for hire in Ottawa who can roast the boss or customize material on the fly, Fabio is a top-tier choice.
Jenn Labelle
About: Jenn is the kind of comic who instantly feels like the funniest friend in your group chat. By day, she’s a high school teacher (which gives her plenty of patience and even more material), but on stage, she’s a powerhouse who has graced the Halifax Comedy Festival and taken top honors at local competitions like “Crackup the Capital.”
Comedy Style: Jenn specializes in that relatable, “everywoman” humor that hits home because it’s so honest. She talks about the trials of dating, the chaos of teaching, and the general messiness of being an adult.
Her ability to turn mundane frustrations into hilarity makes her one of the most relatable comedians that you can hire in ottawa for events that need a spark.
Jesse Reynolds
About: Jesse is practically local royalty in the entertainment scene. You likely know him from his years on morning radio or his award-winning podcasts. He has been voted Ottawa’s Favourite Comedian multiple times by Faces Magazine, and once you see him live, it is easy to see why.
Comedy Style: They call him “Ottawa’s Acid Tongue” for a reason. Jesse’s style is sharp, sassy, and unapologetically energetic. He blends storytelling with rapid-fire wit, often poking fun at his own life and the chaos of the modern world. If you are looking for comedians for hire in Ottawa who can double as a killer MC for a gala or corporate bash, Jesse is your best bet.
JJ Whitehead
About: JJ is a true heavyweight in the comedy world. He is an international touring pro who has performed on some of the biggest stages around the globe, from the prestigious Edinburgh Fringe to The Jim Jefferies Show.
Despite his global success, he maintains strong roots in the Ottawa scene, bringing a world-class level of polish that you rarely see outside of televised galas.
Comedy Style: JJ delivers the kind of “edgy but polished” humor that commands immediate respect. He isn’t afraid to get personal or tackle rougher topics, but he does it with such professional finesse that the audience is always on his side.
If you want entertainment that is infinitely more memorable (and decidedly cooler) than hiring a standard comedian in ottawa, JJ’s fearless wit will leave your guests talking for weeks.
How to Choose the Right Comedian for Your Event
Picking a comic isn’t quite as simple as picking a caterer; bad food is just disappointing, but a bad comedy set is excruciating. To avoid that awkward silence, you need to read the room before you even send an email.
Match the Style to the Crowd
This is the biggest factor. If you are booking for a conservative corporate AGM or a family reunion, you want someone “Clean” (like Rick Currie) who can be funny without crossing the line.
On the other hand, if it’s a rowdy bachelor party or a late-night club event, a “Clean” comic might bomb. In that case, you want someone “Edgy” who isn’t afraid to push buttons.
Consider the Event Type
Context is everything. A comedian performing at a wedding needs to be charming and inclusive, able to weave in jokes about the couple without roasting grandma. A corporate event, however, usually needs someone polished who understands professional boundaries but can still poke fun at office culture.
Stalk Them (Professionally)
Don’t just take their bio at face value. Check their online presence. Look for clips on their website or Facebook page to see their delivery in action. A written joke might seem safe, but the delivery could be totally different. Watching a five-minute set is the best way to gauge if any of these comedians for hire in Ottawa are the right fit for your specific vibe.
Where to Find and Book Comedians In Ottawa
So you have narrowed down your list, and you know who you want. Now, how do you actually get them to show up at your venue? You generally have two ways to go about this, and the right choice depends on how much legwork you want to do yourself.
The Direct Route: Websites and Socials: Most working comedians today—especially the pros listed above—have their own websites or at least a dedicated Facebook page. You can usually find a “Bookings” or “Contact” tab where you can send an inquiry directly.
This method is great for building a personal connection with the performer from day one. The downside? It can involve a lot of email tag, negotiating contracts yourself, and waiting for replies while they are on the road.
The Streamlined Solution: Booking Platforms: If the idea of chasing down invoices and contracts sounds like a headache, using a dedicated platform can save you serious time. Sites like AGNT are designed specifically to bridge the gap between talent and event planners.
Using AGNT allows you to browse profiles, check verified reviews, and handle the entire booking process—including payments—in one secure place. It adds a layer of professionalism and security that a simple DM exchange might lack. You get the peace of mind knowing the details are sorted, so you can focus on the rest of your event planning.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, people won’t remember the centerpieces or the playlist, but they will definitely remember how much they laughed. Hiring a professional comedian isn’t just about filling a slot in the schedule; it’s about creating a shared experience that brings everyone together.
Whether it’s a dry corporate seminar that needs a jolt of energy or a milestone birthday that deserves a proper roast, live comedy adds a spark that nothing else can match.
Don’t let your next gathering be just another forgettable date on the calendar. With so many incredible comedians for hire in Ottawa, finding the perfect match for your vibe and budget is easier than ever. So, take the leap, browse the talent, and get ready to be the host who threw the funniest party of the year.
Also check our article: Best Professional Comedians for Hire in Montreal Right Now
