Regulars(Archives)
5 Questions with...Neil Fiander
Neil Fiander moved to Fort McMurray from Newfoundland last year, and has been entertaining audiences around town ever since. His unique comedy and magic combo has provided the perfect outlet for a guy who grew up loving the spotlight.
You’re known in these parts as a magician/comedian. Which came first: the magic or the funnies?
Well it’s hard to say which came first. At a professional level comedy came first but the interest came around the same for both.
How did you discover you could pull these off?
I knew at a young age I could hold people’s attention for a long period of time. Being able to take true life stories and add my twisted look on the world just came naturally.
You came from out east and have kept yourself busy touring countless bars and shows such as the East Coast Garden Party. What brought you out here?
I came to Fort McMurray for a couple reasons. I needed a “real” job; some people don’t see what I love to do as work. I was writing a TV show about Fort McMurray and couldn’t remember all the important details of my stay in the past. Also for doing comedy this is the best place I’ve lived yet. I do countless amounts of bars, corporate events, and festivals. I have never been this busy in my life. Also after spending a summer here for the first time I can’t see why anyone wouldn’t want to be here.
What are you currently working on?
I’m doing this comedy music duo with my friend, Matt, calling ourselves the “I’s The By’s”. This has proven to be the most challenging yet rewarding project yet.
If you weren’t doing this, what would you be doing?
This is a tough question for me. Not because I don’t have any other interests, because I do. I do a radio segment on 97.9 Friday mornings with Cub Carson, called Newfie News. But I really can honestly say I can’t picture myself doing anything else besides entertainment.
Follow Neil on Twitter at @fianderneil.
