Aurelia is a German-Cameroonian comedian, writer, and podcaster, who began a comedy journey at open mic nights in 2018. With a multicultural upbringing, humour was a key part of their family life, and the storytelling skills of Aurelia's mother played a significant role in shaping a unique comedic voice.
Aurelia's work often reflects personal experiences, resonating deeply with queer and POC audiences. As a non-binary and queer comedian, there's emphasis on the importance of representation in a male-dominated field, using humour as a powerful tool to address serious topics.
Beyond the stage, there is a passion for interior design, voice acting, and writing, with a vision for expanding creative pursuits and, perhaps, renovating the kitchen to fuel culinary creativity.
You began your comedy career at open mic nights in 2018. Can you tell us about your first experience on stage and how it shaped your journey in comedy?
My first ever gig went well which gave me confidence to sign up for another open mic that I then bombed at. It’s definitely a learning curve - the same material that gets huge laughs one night, might not go so well on another. It’s all about getting back on stage, and refining the material you’re working with as you go.
Growing up with influences from both German and Cameroonian cultures, was humor a big part of your family life? Do you think your cultural roots play a role in your style or the perspective you bring to the stage?
My mum is was a great story teller, and she was often funny - even if it was unintentional. A lot of stand up is based on telling stories so this definitely helped. I talk about my experiences and upbringing on stage, it’s like free therapy. I definitely notice that my queer and POC audiences tend to relate to my material on a deeper level.
As a non-binary and queer comedian, how important is representation in your work? Do you feel that comedy provides a unique platform to challenge gender norms?
Stand up is still a male dominated field so representation really matters. Humour allows me to connect with people over laughter, which makes broaching serious topics easier.
We really love your apartment! How would you describe your interior design style, and what inspired it? Do you have any favourite pieces?
I’d say my interior design style is colourful, vintage and warm. I’m always looking for new additions on Facebook Marketplace or when we’re travelling. I love looking at an item and remembering its backstory. (Like the pile of basketballs I was going to turn into a wall installation like at the Aime Leon Dore Store). But my favourite is our couch because it’s where we relax.
As you continue to grow in your career, how do you see your life evolving over the next few years? Are there other passions that you would like to explore?
I’d love to do more voice acting and I want to write a book. My problem is that I have a lot of ideas and have trouble following through. As far as the evolution of my life goes, I would love to get a new kitchen. My dream is a stovetop with 6 burners. I’m convinced I would start making everything from scratch if I had a fridge with French doors.
Creative Director & Photography: @_karabo_