In 2001 Chris Ricciardi started his stand-up career in Ann Arbor Michigan. Early appearances at Amateur Night at the Heidelberg and Good Night Gracies had Chris needing an escort out of the building for his raw perception of life. After some minor felony charges and a small DUI misunderstanding he needed to make a major life change. In 2003 Chris found his home in Alcoholics Anonymous and began performing as a recovery comedian.
In 2008 he moved to Phoenix, Arizona where he got married, bought a house, and continued his comedy career. After performing at local Roundups, open mics, and special events Chris found himself getting invites to perform at some of the better known Arizona Clubs. Chris has opened for comedians such as Tony Vicich and Jeffrey Bennett and his comedic style and ability to make fun of himself as well as the audience has left Chris a favorite among comedy club audiences. To this day he travels around the US as well as Mexico making people laugh everywhere he goes.
Recovery Comedy: What were you like as a kid?
Chris Ricciardi: Which kind of kid? As are young child I was very outgoing and silly. As an adolescent I was a pain in the ass and couldn’t remember anything. Looking back it was probably the drugs… the silly part not the pain in the ass part.
Recovery Comedy: What made you decide to become a stand-up comedian and how long have you been performing?
Chris Ricciardi: I really just wanted a microphone so everyone would listen to me for once. After all I have important stuff to say, where better than on stage while your drunk. My very first time on stage was in 2001.
Recovery Comedy: Were you performing stand-up comedy before you got into recovery?
Chris Ricciardi: I attempted comedy when I was drinking but I got a little too “comfortable” before I went on stage.
Recovery Comedy: Does your comedy have a message and if so what is it?
Chris Ricciardi: I try and stay open to whatever feels comfortable. If I had to pick one area it’s just how stupid people are, myself included.
Recovery Comedy: Who are your comedy idols?
Chris Ricciardi: Oh man… so many. Eddie Murphy, Chris Rock, Mitch Hedberg, Gallagher, George Carlin. I love all different styles and really appreciate the different deliveries and approaches.
Recovery Comedy: Where does your inspiration for material come from?
Chris Ricciardi: The people around me. I grew up in hippie Ann Arbor Michigan, I moved to gun toting, Wild West Arizona. The differences alone are enough to write jokes forever. I try to just take everyday stuff and see them a little different than everyone else
Recovery Comedy: What is your joke writing process?
Chris Ricciardi: As things unfold throughout the day I will write it down. I will also call my buddies and start bullshitting with them. Amazing how jokes just come out when you’re talking about life with someone you’re comfortable with.
Recovery Comedy: What is your kryptonite?
Chris Ricciardi: Honestly I have not really encountered anything paralyzing on stage. I really don’t take it too seriously. One show at a time.
Recovery Comedy: Is your family supportive of your comedy career?
Chris Ricciardi: Yes very much, my mother told me that friends from her church were watching me on YouTube. I told her sorry. Go say three Our Fathers and 12 Hail Marys.
Recovery Comedy: Is comedy part of your healing process?
Chris Ricciardi: No not really. I just like the experience and am enjoying the ride.
Recovery Comedy: What was your worst experience performing comedy?
Chris Ricciardi: Being escorted out of the building by friends while large drunken college kids scream your name… yeah and none of the drunk kids were hot coeds wanting me to sign their tits.
Recovery Comedy: What was your best experience performing comedy?
Chris Ricciardi: The first time anyone had given me 15 minutes was at a Crossroads Talent thing for AA. I had a few jokes written but mainly went out to have fun. I actually saw people rolling backward laughing so hard. That makes you feel so good. I really hope that guy is ok, he did appear to have a disability.
Recovery Comedy: What is your favorite joke?
Chris Ricciardi: That’s like asking Lindsay Lohan what her favorite drug is. I don’t really have a favorite. My favorite joke is the one that works. I’m on, the delivery is there, and the people roar. Hitting that sweet spot with any one of my jokes makes it my favorite.
Recovery Comedy: What is your comedy dream?
Chris Ricciardi: Honestly? I would love to be a part of a comedy sitcom. I have always loved sitcom TV since I was a kid. Cheers, Night Court, Fox News…. Plus being paid to have people watch you weekly wouldn’t be a bad gig.
To find out more information about Chris Ricciardi or to book him for your next Recovery Event just click here!
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