Being a comedian during COVID-19 is no laughing matter. As local arts venues - including comedy clubs - continue to bear the brunt of the pandemic, performers are finding new ways to safely entertain the public.
Tanya Horne is a prime example. She set up her own comedy stand on her neighbours' front lawn, at Nanaimo Street and East 5th Avenue, in the early days of the pandemic last year.
The process has been cathartic for Horne, who lost her job months ago and now brings the neighbourhood plenty of 'hilarapy' - a blend of hilarity and therapy.
She says, "I've suffered from depression and anxiety for about 20 years. So I was like, how do I help others while helping myself with my own mental health?"
Horne is still performing her sit-down stand-up routine every Tuesday and Thursday from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
