Entertainment

Legal Alien

16. Apr, 2018

Comedic genius James Roque (roh-key) graces Australian stages at this year’s Melbourne International Comedy Festival. His brand new show Legal Alien explores his identity struggles and accepting his immigrant uniqueness.

Roque is a Filipino-born, New Zealand-raised immigrant, who pronounced his own Filipino last name wrong for seventeen years! With his parents very much Filipino, Roque struggled with finding his own voice and pathway throughout his younger years. His performance explores how things have changed for him since growing up, but 10% of the time, he still feels like a legal alien. Blessed with stage skills and a great sense of humour, Roque has discovered exactly what he is good at, despite his parents’ initial disapproval.

Very much a triple threat – comedian, writer and actor – there is no doubt that Roque is oozing with talent. He made his solo debut in 2013 at the New Zealand International Comedy Festival and has been a successful performer ever since. Roque has made many New Zealand television appearances such as being a panelist on Three’s 7 Days and being featured on Three’s Jono and Ben.

Legal Alien explores the stereotypes that come with being an immigrant. Roque’s anecdotes of trying to fit in are filled with hilarious gags that keep the audience in stitches. Roque is an entertainer like no other. His acting background and gift of the gab shine through his performance. Roque keeps his cool and engages with the audience throughout.

Legal Alien relates well to many Australians, as we are a country filled with many immigrants. Some comedians struggle to make racial jokes without being somewhat offensive; Roque glides through this and never takes it too far. Legal Alien explores how being an immigrant has shaped Roque into the person that he is today.

If you’re checking out the Comedy Festival this year, be sure to add James Roque’s Legal Alien to your list of shows. It is one of the best you will see this year!