Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Cindy-Ann Boisson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Cindy-Ann thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

The Tickled Children Comedy Workshop has been the most meaningful. A few years ago I envisioned a children’s comedy workshop. Back then I didn’t have the exact template in mind. I was sure of two things: My love for working with children and my love for comedy.

You see kids WILL let you know when they’ve just about had enough and, they never wanted the day to end!

It was the first ever comedy event sponsored in part by the Broward Cultural Org. I’ve since done it again in 2022 with hopes of bringing it back in 2023.

Cindy-Ann, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’ve always had a knack for storytelling. I would ‘hold court’ at family gatherings and in the classroom (much to the annoyance of my teachers). I acquired my mum’s sense of humor too. Dry and sometimes dark. I’m extremely observant! Very little escapes the eye and I see humor in everything. Everything! Even pain. It’s what makes the pain bearable. They got the formula for comedy right. Tragedy plus time! After my son left for college I figured it was my time. Time to figure myself out and do what makes my heart smile. Standup comedy and storytelling makes my heart burst with joy. The sound of laughter ignites my soul. You hear me? Ignites my soul. Smiling faces paint a picture that provides a light in any darkroom.

I’m most proud of being able to take a good look at myself in the mirror and say ‘You gotta work for it! No one owes you shit!’ That took a lot because I’m spoilt. I’m used to getting things my way. Having that hard conversation with myself changed my life!

I’m originally from Trinidad and Tobago and function in an industry where no one sounds like me! That really dampened my spirits for a long time. But it doesn’t matter. Funny is funny. I’ve learned to pronounce some words differently so I don’t lose my audience but I’ve also learned to stay true to who I am.

I’ve been told I’m a masterful storyteller and if my words escape you my facial expressions will draw you right in. I like that. Growing up my mum had a devious look that would sting worse than the strap! I love to work my eyes too….it’s the window to the soul and can really capture a moment.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Value what we do!

Too often I’ve had people ask me to do a gig for free. It’s like they see value in a DJ, decor, venue, advertisements but expect you to ‘help them reach their goals’. It’s disrespectful. I have done a lot of free work and I will continue to do so on my discretion. The expectation that I should do so annoys me.

Support us by allowing to work without disruption. People come to a show and think it’s really cool to shout out or talk loudly to their friends WHILE you are on stage. It’s impolite. Respect us.

Understand the art form. Lots of people criticize various art forms because of a lack of understanding. Do the research, understand the process and appreciate the arts. There’s a formula but people are also entitled to add their own personal flavour. Allow it. Allow us.

Is there a mission driving your creative journey?

To educate people about and introduce people to the cultural differences in Trinidad and Tobago. My goal is to share my gift with as many people who will receive it. To talk about things people pretend doesn’t exist. Too often people pretend they don’t think about some of the things we bravely discuss on stage.

To stand in my truth

To get to share the stage with some of my favs in the comedy world: Wanda Sykes, Chris Rick, Tig Notaro, Bill Burr, Dave Chapelle, Aida Rodriguez and so many more!

To record my Netflix special! A girl can dream

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.cindyannboisson.com/
• Instagram: @Cindyannboisson
• Linkedin: Cindyannboisson
• Twitter: @cindyannboisson
• Youtube: Cindyannboisson

Image Credits
Abbi ballin, Villain theatre, Morgan Sophia photography