INTERVIEW: Local Comic Performs at Iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater
Photo Credit: Amy Schumer
One might feel vicariously triumphant when a Capital District native achieves a significant career milestone. Our region has produced remarkable musical talents who have transcended local boundaries to gain broader acclaim and success on larger stages.
In the realm of comedy, no local has come close to what Jaye McBride has achieved.
Though originally from Westport, McBride launched her comedy career in Albany after attending SUNY. She quickly became a beloved figure in the comedy scene, known for her stellar joke writing, dark sense of humor, and relentless work ethic. Not only is she a fan favorite, but she is also widely respected among her peers. Tirelessly humble, McBride is always the first to offer advice to fellow comedians on taglines or how to elevate their performances. It’s easy to be taken advantage of when you exhibit that level of kindness, but McBride always has the patience of a saint when it comes to sharing what she’s learned with newer comics.
Years ago, she left the Capital Region for Los Angeles, but eventually found a better fit in New York City, where she has lived since 2018. Since her move, McBride has broken into the prestigious Comedy Cellar, where she performs regularly. Her performances caught the eye of Amy Schumer, who hired her to write for "Inside Amy Schumer" and invited her on tour.
Last month, McBride had the incredible opportunity to open for Schumer once again, this time at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado.
McBride shared her experiences, marking yet another milestone in her evolving career. It’s a stark contrast to the tumultuous societal climate for trans individuals. “It’s a very hard time for my people,” she said, acknowledging the fear many in the community are facing today. However, the comedian found a bright spot performing at one of the world’s most esteemed venues.
Situated against ancient rock formations, Red Rocks holds a special place in entertainment history. McBride described the surreal experience of stepping onto the stage, surrounded by towering cliffs, and taking a moment to appreciate the venue's grandeur. “It's hard not to look at the venue and just be grateful for where you are,” she said. “I performed at Madison Square Garden. You think about the history of that place. But then you look at the history of Red Rocks. It's like 60 million years old.”
(And how often do you get to share a photo with Amy Schumer as the photographer?)
McBride continues to perform regularly at the Comedy Cellar, rubbing elbows with some of the best comics from around the world. When she’s not entertaining audiences, she focuses on another passion: her artwork. McBride is an exceptional cartoonist, and while she will never stop telling jokes, she often hints at a future where she can devote more time to drawing. She has been working on a comic book, and one of the highlights of her career has been contributing her comic stylings to Metroland.
With the weight of the world pressing on but the power of laughter as a tool for resilience, Jaye McBride continues to inspire, proving that humor is a vital ingredient in navigating both personal challenges and societal turbulence.
You can catch Jaye McBride tonight (May 18th) at The Lark Street Tavern in Albany at 7 PM.