![]() Since starting my blog, I have been lucky enough to meet so many new and diverse people, both directly and indirectly involved in the Italian Canadian community. One of these people is the multi-talented Italian Comedian and Musician Enrico Rennella. I was intrigued by this funny man and I knew that I had to get the scoop on what makes his comedy stand apart from other Italian comedians. We met at a local café and I quickly learned that although he is an entertainer, that what you see, really is what you get. From his eccentric hairstyle, green stylish leather jacket and effervescent personality he expressed with the patrons and waitresses, to his story-telling, Neapolitan accent, and sense of humour, it all draws you right into his world. With a Parisian mother and Neapolitan Father, Enrico is the perfect mix of Italian charm and romantic flare that jumps off the stage between his comedy and music routine. The stars must have been aligned for this funny man who was born on April 1st; no joke. He was born in Paris and at the age of 1 moved to Napoli where he grew up in a family of 7 siblings. It is no wonder he wanted to perform; in such a large family you have to do what you can to stand out. He began to realize his comedic appeal at the age of 6, performing in front of his family and by his teens this young entertainer began performing throughout Napoli. With a lack of opportunity, Enrico decided to pursue another passion; food. He became a chef and in his 20’s moved back to Paris to open a Neapolitan restaurant called Café Italia. Even with a successful restaurant, that inner passion to perform never left and the game changer for him was watching his idol on TV, Neapolitan singer Gigi D’Alessio, perform at Radio City Music Hall in New York City in 2011. It was then and there that he decided to pursue his dream; “if he could do it, so could I.” So, who influenced this funny man? Well, according to Enrico, no one. Although he enjoys the comedy of Fiorello, Enrico prides himself on being his authentic self on stage and not like anyone else; “I want to be like me”. That is why he integrates his second love, music, into his performances; “I use music to make my comedy better”. After years of incorporating other people’s songs, he decided to pursue another desire and he has started creating his own music. But with a successful comedy career, why branch off? Well, for Enrico that is simple; music is passion “you can say something in music that you can’t say when you speak”. Enrico is now working with a well-known Neapolitan producer and is in the process of recording his first solo album with an expected release date in June 2018. Today Enrico resides in Toronto, performing throughout Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom and parts of Europe. Interested in checking out his comedy? I hope so, because his next Canadian performance is a charity show on March 16 at the City Playhouse Theatre in Thornhill. Partial proceeds from this event go to Shining Through Center in support of Smiles for Autism. What’s next for this already accomplished performer? With a new album and the successful show, I’m Not Just an Italian, wrapping up, we are all excited to see what Enrico has in store for us. I was lucky enough to get a sneak peak at his new show, The Italian Shades of Grey, opening in December 2018. This show will definitely be a change from his previous ones. His goal this time is to stretch the envelope and add some shock value to his comedy. A darker performance that is not to be missed! This big personality is also working on several other projects; so, don’t be surprised to see this multi-talented performer on the small screen too. Enrico’s comedic charisma and passion for life is infectious. It is not often that you meet such a genuine person. So maybe the stars were aligned for me too; getting to interview such an amazing talent, fellow foodie and singer and having him share his story was such a pleasure and an inspiration to never give up on your dreams. Tickets for any of Enrico Rennella’s shows can be purchased at: www.enricorennella.net
5 Comments
1/24/2018 11:15:37 pm
Italians have always been known for their natural affliction with art. It's my first time to hear about a comedian but I totally agree that if it's famous for one form of art form, he sure must have a lot of other tricks to boost. They all grew up exposed the world's best. They have the most beautiful architecture and they have the finest musicians. They are trendsetters anywhere they go. Even the food they eat is a form of culinary art taken seriously by everyone.
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9/21/2018 07:35:49 am
There are some interesting points in time in this article but I don’t know if I see all of them center to heart. There is some validity but I will take hold opinion until I look into it further. Good article, thanks and we want more! Added to bookmark as well
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10/3/2018 06:23:07 am
I'm impressed, I must say. Really rarely do I encounter a blog that's both rare and entertaining, and let me tell you, you have hit the nail on the head. Your idea is outstanding; the issue is something that not enough people are speaking intelligently about. I am very happy that I stumbled across this in my search for something relating to this.
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10/28/2018 04:14:04 am
Nice post. I learn something more challenging on different blogs everyday. It will always be stimulating to read content from other writers and practice a little something from their store. I?d prefer to use some with the content on my blog whether you don?t mind. Natually I?ll give you a link on your web blog. Thanks for sharing.
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4/24/2020 01:44:09 am
You share really interesting news which I never read on any website. Thanks for sharing here
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AuthorA first generation Italian Canadian with a love for food and the Italian Lifestyle. Archives
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