Ali Wong is just a little obsessed with Craigslist.
“It’s a black hole for me,” said the Los Angeles-based comedian, relaying stories of digging through a stranger’s girlfriend’s old clothes and meeting struggling UCLA students in random parking lots to purchase used sunglasses. “I have turned into a certified crazy Craigslist person.”
Wong performs at the Riot Act Comedy Theater this Thursday through Saturday.
| Onstage |
| Ali Wong |
| » Where: Riot Act Comedy Theater, 801 E St. NW |
| » When: 8 p.m. Thursday to Saturday, 10:30 p.m Friday and Saturday |
| » Info: $12 to $20; 202-697-4900; riotactcomedy.com |
Wong may need to use a little more discretion in future meetings. Thanks to the exposure from the now canceled sitcom “Are You There, Chelsea?” and her appearances on “Chelsea Lately” and “The Tonight Show,” folks are beginning to recognize Ali Wong.
“It’s really strange being in like Addison,Texas, and having people come up to me at a Nordstrom’s or a gas station,” Wong said. “It’s really, really surreal.”
“Are You There, Chelsea?,” based on the work of comedian Chelsea Handler, never gained traction with audiences. But Wong understands that even getting cast in a show and having it picked up counts as a success. Plus, she admits it’s helped with her stand-up career.
“I already knew at that point that a chance of a show lasting is so slim,” Wong said, adding that she comes from a family that expects the worst. “I was fully prepared.”
Wong dove head first into comedy after college. She worked on her craft in her hometown of San Francisco before eventually seeking more opportunities in L.A.
“I always really loved comedy,” Wong said, adding that Patrice O’Neal, Eddie Murphy and Louis C.K. are major influences. “It’s the only thing I was ever good at.”
In addition to hitting the road this summer, Wong also plays a small part as a hacker in the upcoming Oliver Stone film “Savages.” She hopes to put together a one-hour stand-up special some time in the near future.
While on the road, Wong tries to explore the cities she visits. However, in smaller towns that can be limiting, she spends time watching episodes of “Breaking Bad.”
“I get it now,” Wong said of the road. “It’s really hard. If you’re not into drinking and getting strippers and stuff, the road can be super duper lonely.”
Wong said she’s looking forward to visiting D.C. and taking advantage of the perks of being in the nation’s capital.
“I am so excited to go to D.C. and see my tax dollars at work when I go see the pandas for free,” Wong said. “That’s my favorite part.”
