Ten years ago, Joe Bor won the award for Jewish Comedian of the Year. But a question has kept gnawing at Joe’s brain – is he really Jewish enough to be deserving of the title? He tackles the issue in his new show, A Room With A Jew.
Questioning his commitment to his religion and considering his Jewish upbringing versus his current predilection for pigs in blankets, Joe muses on his marriage to a non-Jewish wife, his fathering a half Jewish baby - and the racism inherent in calling a game Chinese Whispers. In this hilarious and thought-provoking hour, Joe reminisces about his school days among the goyim and tales of his Jewish family; delving into anecdotes about his overbearing mother, embarrassing father and his whole family’s pre-occupation with food.
Joe Bor is a highly respected on the circuit. He regularly works at many of the top comedy clubs and has supported Jack Whitehall, Kevin Bridges and Alistair McGowan on tour.
Joe Bor's tour dates are here.
1. What is the last thing you do before you go onstage (apart from check your flies and/or check your knickers aren't sticking out of your skirt and check for spinach between your teeth)?
I have a look at my jokes, I then check my reflection and I check my phone is off or on silent.
2. What irritates you?
Me. More specifically my inability to eat healthily.
3. What is the most dangerous thing you have ever done?
I once got done for speeding (i was young and naive), I temporarily lost my licence. I went to court and in court I remembering being so scared I genuinely said the phrase ‘what’s going to happen to me now?’ Like I was on trial for murder.
4. What is the most stupid thing you have ever done?
When I was 18 I bought a T-shirt with a zip in it because I thought it was trendy, it ended up being a breastfeeding top.
5. What has surprised you the most during your career in comedy?
It always surprises me what people laugh at. Sometimes you think you’ve got a killer joke and it doesn’t get the reaction you expect and sometimes you’ll tell a joke that you thought wouldn’t get much actually ends up going down pretty well.
Interview continues here.
