Comedian Theo Von spent his childhood days in New Orleans performing stand-up bits for an audience of stuffed animals – but that all changed in 2000 when he moved to Los Angeles and was chosen as a contestant for MTV's "Road Rules".
Von's work since "Road Rules" includes appearances on season four of NBC's "Last Comic Standing," Comedy Central's "Live at Gotham" as well as a seat on the judging panel of "America's Prom Queen." In 2008, Von was the winner of Comedy Central's "Reality Bites Back." Now on tour, Von will perform May 7 to 9 at the Comedy Club in Webster. We caught up with Von to chat about his upcoming projects, his family and what Rochester audiences can expect from his show.
So, your full name is Theodor Capitani Vonkurnatowski. Talk about what it was like to grow up with such a complicated name? I liked my name, it scared people. It was like a name and a Halloween costume all in one.
You're pretty vocal about organ donation, due to your sister's battle with biliary atresia. What's the easiest way for someone to become a donor? The easiest way to become a donor is to go to Donatelife.net. Each state has different laws regarding donation, but that site can guide.
On your MySpace page, you noted among your heroes "Zeus" and "Denny of Denny's Restaurants." Any other (living) heroes? My brother is my hero. He's been sober for 10 years, which makes me proud. He's really smart and one of my best friends. And he taught me how to be funny.
Where do you find the most inspiration for your comedy routines? Most of my inspiration comes from my southern roots, racial observations and traveling.
I noticed you've attended quite a few schools. Are you currently trying to finish a college degree anywhere? I've been to eight colleges. I have an exam on Wednesday that I'm writing now. My computer is broken, so I've been typing all 11 pages on my iPhone.
Can you tell us about any upcoming TV or film appearances? Hopefully my new TBS show gets picked up. It's about three comedians — me, Bert Kreisher (Comedy Central's "Reality Bites Back") and Bret Ernst (Showtime's "Weeds"), very funny guys — starting a fraternity for older guys.
What can Rochester expect from your comedy show? Fun. Comedy that hits you right in the jaw. No one is safe. Let's do this shit!
What's up next for Theo Von? A lot of comedy. Acting. A new ant farm. Hot chicks. Money. Champagne. And a weekend of funny shows in Rochester.
