Tanyalee Davis originally from Winnipeg, Canada, holds the Guinness Book World Record for the shortest comedian.
Tanyalee has diastrophic dysplasia and is 3 foot 3 inches. She is currently touring the UK with her stand up comedy show ‘Unstoppable Me’.
Not only is she an international stand up comedian, she is also a motivational speaker, with 3+ million followers on TikTok. She has appeared on UK shows ‘The Last Leg’ and ‘Live at the Apollo’.
She also shares a number of videos on her social media of her day to day life and how she overcomes different obstacles.
Whilst in the UK Tanyalee caught up with our committee member Kay to discuss what its like being a comedian with a disability.
Q. How does being an LP impact your shows, have you had any issues with accessibility?
A. There are loads of venues that aren’t accessible but I don’t mind being picked up/down the stairs if needs be. Obviously I’d prefer accessible venues but I got to do what I gotta do.
Q. Do you find it helps or hinders your content being an LP?
A. My tour show is all about my life. Obviously as an LP it gives me a unique perspective. In general most people can’t imagine being happy if they had the same body, and then I get up there proving I don’t let me size define who I am. That’s what being an Unstoppable Me is all about. I’ve accomplished many great things in my life despite being 3’3” (and shrinking). I’ve realized I’m a storyteller and I’ve got loads of stories.
Q. Do you feel being an LP changes how people react to you being a comedian? Are people open towards you being shorter/smaller or do you feel you have to work harder?
A. I think now since my show is story telling they understand the situations that I’ve landed in, have made me who I am on stage. I see the funny side of the crazy situations I get into because of my height. Having a sense of humour is key!
Q. You have shared some great awareness videos showing how you do/adapt day to day tasks, what inspired/encouraged you to start making them?
A. I love to do videos of me doing stuff because so many people ask why I don’t have a carer or my husband doing/helping me. I’m like ‘cuz I can do it myself’. My hubby knows that I will ask for help when I need it.
Q. Are there any must have aids or items you have with you whilst travelling?
A. I’ve designed 2 things that have been a game changer in my life. I’ve got the Unstoppable Me stick which helps me push my leggings/pants down and up, dry between my toes, help with socks, get laundry out the machine, reach stuff in the kitchen. The other invention is a metal rack that fits in the back post of my scooter seat. It has 3 hooks to hang my groceries or my suitcases. These both allow me to be independent.
Tanyalee is still currently touring the UK, you can find details of her tour and more here.