Nigel NG, the popular Malaysian comedian known as Uncle Roger, is set to perform in Delhi, India for the first time. Nigel describes Uncle Roger as an older uncle who talks incessantly and is perceived as an annoying know-it-all. This makes his character relatable, as every culture has someone similar. In an interview with Bangalore Times, Nigel discusses his journey into stand-up comedy, transitioning to social media during the pandemic, dealing with online trolls, and more. Here are some highlights:
- Nigel began creating online content during the COVID-19 pandemic after losing his income as a stand-up comedian due to comedy club closures. With a determination to pursue his comedy dreams, he utilized his video editing, filming, and comedic skills to create Uncle Roger, which quickly gained popularity.
- Nigel emphasizes the special nature of live performances, where audiences disconnect from their phones to immerse themselves in the show for the duration. This undivided attention from the audience holds significant value for him.
- Nigel expresses his excitement about exploring the vast culinary offerings in India, particularly looking forward to trying different varieties of biryani.
- Reflecting on his career, Nigel stresses the importance of honing one's craft over time, suggesting aspiring comedians dedicate three to five years to gaining experience before delving into social media exposure.
- He notes the evolving landscape for comedians, where they now take on multiple roles as one-man production teams due to the advent of social media platforms.
Overall, Nigel NG's journey showcases his resilience and adaptability in navigating the comedy scene, both onstage and online.When you were performing stand-up comedy, you used to focus solely on writing and delivering jokes at the comedy club. However, now, you have to write, perform, and film your jokes to maintain an online presence. There is a lot more to manage in this digital era.
Growing up, I observed individuals like Uncle Roger who would sit at a coffee shop, known as a kopitiam in Malaysia, sharing their wisdom while being kind-hearted.
Nigel NG advises that individuals who are easily offended should refrain from engaging in social media. Developing a thick skin is essential to handle trolls. One should be prepared for negativity on social media and learn to distinguish constructive feedback from criticism that can be ignored.
The Haiyaa World Tour featuring Malaysian comedian Nigel Ng, also known as Uncle Roger, is coming to India through an event organized by BookMyShow Live.
