Comedy has become such a powerful form of social commentary that there are now researchers assessing and quantifying its impact on society. One of these solemn academics concluded that watching Iliza Shlesinger is like being indoctrinated into a cult.
The same commentator likened Iliza to a motivational speaker, and though his dry and humourless approach to comedy is unsettling, he isn’t entirely wrong. Iliza‘s energy is undeniably motivational. The award-winning comedian has five Netflix specials, a book, three movies, a sketch show, numerous world tours, and a host of other credits to her name. She’s even made a perfume in loving memory of her famous dog, Blanche.
All of these achievements have arisen from Iliza’s appetite for challenging situations. And though her ever-growing portfolio is impressive, she insists it all comes down to mastering the art of saying yes. “Beggars cannot be choosers. You want me to play a tree stump? Sounds great, I’ll be there,” she says.
Iliza’s dedication and openness have paid off in many ways, most recently with roles in the action-packed comedy, 'Spenser Confidential', and slow-burning drama, 'Pieces Of A Woman'.
“I did a lot of yelling in 'Spenser Confidential'. And hitting and throwing. And in 'Pieces Of A Woman', I do a lot of very still crying.” Flashing her distinctive lopsided grin, Iliza quips, “which is a very normal day for me, but it just happens to be on camera.”
Though a quiet, dramatic role may seem out of character for this famously hyperactive comedian, Iliza was honoured to be chosen for the film. “I’m happy to be doing all of it. It can never be enough. The chance to get to learn from people like Ellen Burstyn, who has more awards than I’ll ever be nominated for, was really humbling and cool.”
Of course, the stage will always feel like home: “Connecting with fans through stand-up is what makes my heart beat.”
This is what motivates Iliza to pump out fresh material at such an astonishing rate. Though her most recent Netflix special, 'Unveiled', only came out in November of 2019, Iliza says fans can expect a whole new experience from her 'Forever' tour. “There’s crowd work and it’s just a real dance between the audience’s energy and mine. It’s an intense, communal experience. It’s more engaging than watching from home, and the idea is for you to leave feeling uplifted.”
The Aussie leg of this tour has a special significance for Iliza. She was in California during the 2018 wildfires and was stunned to learn the extent of the devastation caused by Australia’s recent fires. She knew immediately she had to do her part to help. Iliza is a huge fan of 'Kath & Kim' and Aussie comedian Chris Lilley, and she understands how central humour is to Aussie culture. So, she’s using the tour as an opportunity to round up financial aid for those in need while also bringing some much-needed laughter to the country.
As for the future that lies beyond her 'Forever' tour, Iliza says, “I’d love to do a Broadway play, have my own cartoon, have my own late night show, teach my dog English, wake up two inches taller, and have the ends of my eyebrows grow back. The early 2000s were unkind to them.”
And Iliza’s final piece of motivational advice? “Focus on your work, try not to be a dick, don’t use plastic.”
Iliza Shlesinger Tour Dates
13 February – State Theatre (Sydney)14 February – Queensland Performing Arts Centre
15 February – Hamer Hall (Melbourne)
