Alex Calleja says stand-up comedy in Philippines still 'relatively new'
MANILA, Philippines — Stand-up comedian Alex Calleja is set to release a brand-new comedy special on streaming service Netflix this coming February 7.
The much-awaited special, “Tamang Panahon,” marks a significant milestone in Calleja’s career that spans nearly two decades.
“Tingin ko ito na ang tamang panahon na lumabas sa Netflix para mas lumawak pa ang reach ng Pinoy stand-up comedy at mas marami pang maka-appreciate ng ganitong art form,” he said.
Alex explained his humble beginnings when he started doing stand-up back in 2007.
“Halos walang tao sa mga open mics namin noon. Minsan 'yung madadatnan mo nagmi-meeting pa,” he recalled.
Today, Alex has become a top-grossing live act selling out bar shows and theater events in Metro Manila and all over the Philippines with his group, The Comedy Crew. He has also become one of the most sought-after performers at corporate events and weddings mainly because of the topics he focuses on, which are deemed very relatable.
The Netflix release promises to deliver his hilarious takes on family, gossip, gender, the contrast between rich and poor, and everyday Pinoy life experiences.
“Mas gusto kong mag-focus sa mga topics na hindi nangti-trigger o maghahati ng crowd,” he said. Alex said stand-up comedy in the country is still relatively new, and, as such, Pinoy audiences are still getting acclimated to this form of entertainment.
“Nililigawan pa din natin ang audience. Kaya ang objective talaga ay mapatawa mo sila kesa mang-shock lang o maging controversial,” he said.
Aside from his humor, the demand for Alex can also be attributed to his steady presence in the entertainment industry. He has been a fixture on TV as co-host of hit shows “Tiktalks” and “Face 2 Face.” On radio and podcasts, you can hear him on “Good Times with Mo,” “Good Times Radio,” and his very own “Punchline with Alex Calleja.”
This year, he will embark on a world tour to promote his Netflix release. This kicks off on February 16 with a post-Valentines show titled “Kuwentong Pag-Ibig: The Hilarious Side of Love” at the Stephen Riady Auditorium in Singapore. The show is his and The Comedy Crew’s fourth in the Lion City in less than a year, including a theater show last July 2024 that was sold out.
In the following months, Alex will also perform in North America with shows in the United States from April 4 to April 13 and shows in Canada from May 23 to June 8. Also lined up within the year are shows in the United Arab Emirates, Australia, and New Zealand.
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