Kru Harale is a comedian whose work encompasses stand up, sketch comedy, improv and acting. Her material is heavily influenced by her experience growing up in Bombay, India and her fresh voice was on full display at the 2022 Melbourne International Comedy Festival. In this interview, Kru discusses her comedic influences, how she came to feel “at home” on the stage and pivoting to online performances during lockdown.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your creative practice.
I’m a comedian trying to make Melbourne laugh with a ‘fresh’ (off the boat) perspective. I mainly do standup, but I enjoy doing improv, sketch and acting on the side.
How did you start your creative practice and why?
I disliked my day job and wanted something to laugh about 🙂 Jokes apart, I started with improv comedy which led to a standup comedy course. At my graduation performance I felt “at home” on the stage. I felt aligned and happy while making people laugh. I knew I needed to pursue this further.
Where did you grow up and has it influenced what you create?
I grew up in Bombay, India. It has definitely influenced my material. I joke about Indians and growing up in a big city.
Tell us about your past creative projects. What has been a highlight so far?
Other than standup, I’ve done improv and sketch comedy. One of the highlights was performing sketches in front of a live audience at our show called ‘Sketchy People’ in MICF2022
Who or what inspires your practice?
I am inspired by all kinds of funny – standup, sketch, improv. Jerry Seinfeld has always been a big inspiration. Other than that, I enjoy the work of Trevor Noah, Wanda Sykes and Dimitri Martin.
Where do you feel most creative?
I’ve noticed that it isn’t a particular location. It’s generally a state of mind. I feel the most creative when I am in a state of flow, and out of my own way.
What gets you through challenging creative/ industry times?
It helps to find other ways of being creative during challenging times. For example, we made an ‘online’ sketch show during the 2021 lockdowns. This helped get my creative juices flowing.
Whose work are you digging at the moment?
I am currently closely following Celia Pacquola and Luke McGregor’s work.
What future projects are you looking forward to?
I am traveling overseas and looking forward to gigging there and exploring the international audience.
What can we expect to see in terms of your involvement in Junction Footscray & what are you looking forward to?
I am looking forward to getting to know the Footscray community while making them laugh. I’m honoured to have the opportunity to contribute, and be a part of the creative Footscray community.
Where can we find and follow you online?
Instagram: @kruharale
Facebook: @KruHarale
Youtube: Krutika Harale
You can see Kru perform at Junction Footscray Saturday 9th July 5-6pm. Full event runs 4-10pm.