Get ready to laugh your socks off as we introduce comedian Maitreyi Karanth as she prepares for her show Maitriarchy in this years 40th Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Let’s dive into her world of humour, passion, and inspiring moments.
About Maitreyi Karanth
What do you enjoy most about acting?
I feel completely me when I perform. I feel alive. I love looking into people’s eyes from up on stage and feeling the connection. Someone said after one of my performances, “I felt we had a lot of eye contact, a connection”. I love that.
Do you want to work in film, live theatre or both?
My dream is to be a talk show host. I think it comes very naturally to me. I started my time in the entertainment business with acting. Being an actress was what I set out to do before I discovered live stand-up comedy. Camera or stage, acting is a passion.
What has been your favourite role so far in your career?
The charity show was pure joy – 100 Filipinas laughing, cheering, and just letting their hair down. The energy in that room was wild and so full of love.
And then there was January 4th, 2026 – the biggest night of my career. The theatre show was historic: the first solo theatre show by a female comedian in Hong Kong! Only four comedians, irrespective of gender, have ever performed a solo theatre show here – and we sold out! The vibe was electric, the crowd was incredible, and my heart was full. That theatre was always my dream venue. I’d opened for a famous comedian there once and quietly thought, “One day this will be mine.”
What strategies do you use to overcome stage fright or nerves before a performance?
I listen intently to the host. A good host really puts me in the right mood. I feel very energised. I think nerves are good, just should not let them control you, that’s all.
How would you react if you received a negative review of a performance?
Naturally, I would be disappointed, but then I would see how much I agree with the review. Most of the time, we know how a show goes. Deep down, we know. It’s only a matter of accepting it. I am not a rebel without a cause. I have actually looked into my performance deeply whenever I have had any kind of review. What’s the point of a review if it’s not a chance to see what you don’t see
Have you ever had to improvise during a performance? If so, can you share an example?
Yes, of course. Sometimes you realise your audience type in the middle of the performance, and you have to pivot. Which is why it’s important to write a lot, to have something for everyone!
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
I love producing and emceeing as well. I think both come naturally to me. I have decided to take it up a notch and produce more International acts in the coming year. I also produce and perform in a lot of charity fundraisers. I love how I can use my talent for the greater good. In fact, in the beginning, my charity was funded solely by my performances!
Where can patrons purchase tickets to this production?
To book tickets to Maitriarchy, please visit https://www.comedyfestival.com.au/browse-shows/maitriarchy/.
Thank you so much for sharing your delightful stories and insights with us. We can’t wait to see how you light up the stage in “Meet The Comedian – Maitriarchy”. Best of luck, and may your performance be filled with laughter and joy!
Other interviews can be viewed in our Meet The Performer Series.
