Vong Show

  • Purchase Tickets
  • Watch Videos
  • Order Merch
  • Learn About Vong

RICE: Asian Comedy Showcase, Chinese New Year Edition!

November 18, 2019 By vongshow

Join us for the Chinese New Year edition of RICE – Asian Comedy Showcase, a special concert film taping live at CBC Glenn Gould Studio on Friday, January 24, 2020, at 7:00 p.m.

Since its launch during Asian Heritage Month (May 2019) as Canada’s first all-Asian monthly stand-up comedy revue, RICE has consistently played to sold out audiences and garnered glowing reviews from prestigious Canadian media outlets including CBC Comedy, NOW Magazine and Mooney on Theatre.

Hosted by international comedy legend Ron Josol, the Chinese New Year edition of RICE unites all headliners from the past year for a once-in-a-lifetime lineup featuring Canada’s top Asian comedians. Starring Vong Sho (MTV, Logo Network), Cassie Cao (2019 Canadian Comedy Award, Just For Laughs), Jennifer Hsiung (Comedy Central Asia, Chinese Central Television), and Leonard Chan (Just For Laughs, Winnipeg Comedy Festival).

Glenn Sumi (NOW Magazine Theatre Critic):
“…RICE was a phenomenal show. Diverse, inclusive, tightly run and – most important – very, very funny… a revelation!”

Mooney on Theatre (Sarah Siddiqui):
“…there was something to love about every performer. I felt really impressed by the diversity of performance styles and found Vong Show to be a grounding presence between each act… Asian or not, it is well worth adding to your list of date nights and things to see in the city…”

SCHEDULE
6:00 p.m. Catered Reception in Lobby
6:45 p.m. Seating Begins
7:00 p.m. Comedy Show Starts (No Late Entry!)

CONCERT FILM TAPING
This special Chinese New Year edition of RICE will be filmed live and packaged into a concert film and comedy album for distribution at a later date. Audience members must give consent in the form of a signed waiver before the start of the show taping.

VENUE
CBC Glenn Gould Studio is a fully accessible venue with ground level access, wheelchair seating and accessible washrooms (wheelchair seating space limited, please confirm availability prior to ticket purchase). Venue is 13+ and show content aimed at PG-13 rating.

RICE Asian Comedy Showcase Chinese New Year Lunar CBC Glenn Gould Studio Vong Show Cassie Cao Leonard Chan Jennifer Hsiung Rivoli Toronto Standup Stand Up Comedy Comedian Ontario Canada
RICE Asian Comedy Showcase Chinese New Year Lunar CBC Glenn Gould Studio Vong Show Cassie Cao Leonard Chan Jennifer Hsiung Rivoli Toronto Standup Stand Up Comedy Comedian Ontario Canada
RICE Asian Comedy Showcase Chinese New Year Lunar CBC Glenn Gould Studio Vong Show Cassie Cao Leonard Chan Jennifer Hsiung Rivoli Toronto Standup Stand Up Comedy Comedian Ontario Canada

Filed Under: RICE Tagged With: Cassie Cao, CBC Glenn Gould Theatre, Chinese New Year, Jennifer Hsiung, Leonard Chan, Lunar New Year, Ron Josol, Vong Show

RICE: Asian Comedy Showcase starring Jennifer Hsiung!

November 11, 2019 By vongshow

Jennifer Hsiung (Comedy Central Asia) headlines RICE – Asian Comedy Showcase at the historic Rivoli.

Hosted by Vong Show (MTV, Logo Network, Comedy Cares). Special guest performances from an all-star lineup of Canada’s finest Asian comedians including Big Norm, Rush Kazi, Simmone P, Amish Patel.

GLENN SUMI (NOW MAGAZINE STAGE CRITIC):
“…RICE was a phenomenal show. Diverse, inclusive, tightly run and – most important – very, very funny. In the words of goddess Sandra Oh, it truly is an honour to be Asian.”

TICKETS $20 Online, $25 Door (Limited Availability)
SAVE $5 with Promo Code VONGSHOW

Rivoli is a fully accessible space for audience members. Street-level access with accessible washroom between bar and backroom.

Filed Under: RICE Tagged With: Amish Patel, Asian Comedy Showcase, Big Norm, Jennifer Hsiung, RICE, Rivoli, Rush Kazi, Simmone P, Simmone Park, Vong Show

Cassie Cao stars in RICE – Asian Comedy Showcase at Rivoli!

October 2, 2019 By vongshow

Cassie Cao (Just For Laughs, CTV’s The Social) stars in RICE – Asian Comedy Showcase at the historic Rivoli. Hosted by Vong Show (MTV, Logo Network, Comedy Cares), official spokesperson for gay, super cute Asians. Special guest performances from an all-star lineup of Canada’s finest Asian comedians performing at the historic Rivoli.

GLENN SUMI (NOW MAGAZINE THEATRE CRITIC):
“…RICE was a phenomenal show. Diverse, inclusive, tightly run and – most important – very, very funny. In the words of goddess Sandra Oh, it truly is an honour to be Asian.”

TICKETS $20 Online, $20 Door (limited, standing room only)

Filed Under: RICE Tagged With: Asian, Canada, Cassie Cao, Comedian, Comedy, Funny, Gay, Gaysian, Jennifer Hsiung, Ontario, Rivoli, Toronto, Vong Show

RICE – Asian Comedy Showcase returns September 29 at Rivoli!

September 8, 2019 By vongshow

EVERY SHOW HAS SOLD OUT! DON’T WAIT!!!
Leonard Chan (Just for Laughs, Winnipeg Comedy Festival) stars in RICE – Asian Comedy Showcase at the historic Rivoli.

Hosted by Vong Show (MTV, Logo Network, Comedy Cares). Special guest performances from an all-star lineup of Canada’s finest Asian comedians.

GLENN SUMI (NOW MAGAZINE STAGE CRITIC):
“…RICE was a phenomenal show. Diverse, inclusive, tightly run and – most important – very, very funny. In the words of goddess Sandra Oh, it truly is an honour to be Asian.”

TICKETS $20 ONLINE
SAVE $5 with Promo Code VONGSHOW

Filed Under: RICE Tagged With: Asian, Canada, Cassie Cao, Jen Sakato, Leonard Chan, Ontario, Preeti Torul, RICE, Rivoli, Ryan Maglunob, Toronto, Vong Show

Photoshoot with Ron Josol!

July 27, 2019 By vongshow

RICE Asian Comedy Showcase Ron Josol Vong Show Leonard Chan Rivoli Toronto Comedy Standup Stand Up Comedian Canadian

Check out the results of my promotional photoshoot with Ron Josol for RICE – Asian Comedy Showcase. Ron Josol is such an amazingly talented comedian, and he really knew how to vary up his facial expressions.

The fabulous David Arnold help take the photos and I did the editing. So many photos to choose from with tons of variety. Can’t wait to get these photos on the poster and other promotional items!

RICE Asian Comedy Showcase Ron Josol Vong Show Leonard Chan Rivoli Toronto Comedy Standup Stand Up Comedian Canadian
RICE Asian Comedy Showcase Ron Josol Vong Show Leonard Chan Rivoli Toronto Comedy Standup Stand Up Comedian Canadian
RICE Asian Comedy Showcase Ron Josol Vong Show Leonard Chan Rivoli Toronto Comedy Standup Stand Up Comedian Canadian
RICE Asian Comedy Showcase Ron Josol Vong Show Leonard Chan Rivoli Toronto Comedy Standup Stand Up Comedian Canadian
RICE Asian Comedy Showcase Ron Josol Vong Show Leonard Chan Rivoli Toronto Comedy Standup Stand Up Comedian Canadian
RICE Asian Comedy Showcase Ron Josol Vong Show Leonard Chan Rivoli Toronto Comedy Standup Stand Up Comedian Canadian
RICE Asian Comedy Showcase Ron Josol Vong Show Leonard Chan Rivoli Toronto Comedy Standup Stand Up Comedian Canadian

Filed Under: Blog Tagged With: Asian Comedy Showcase, Chinese, Comedy, Filipino, Laos, Philippines, RICE, Rivoli, Ron Josol, Stand Up, Standup, Thai, Toronto, Vong Show

What Up! What Up! Toronto Pride Month Edition Was Super Fabulous!

May 26, 2019 By vongshow

What Up! What Up! Toronto Standup Stand Up Comedy Comedian Rivoli Vong Show Elvira Kurt Ted Morris Martha Chaves Brandon Ash-Mohammed Robert Watson Paul Hutcheson Christophe Davidson Ron Josol

What Up! What Up! Toronto Pride Month edition was spectacular fun! Featuring a stellar lineup starring Elvira Kurt, Martha Chaves, Ted Morris, Brandon Ash-Mohammed, Robert Watson, Ron Josol, Christophe Davidson and Paul Hutcheson.

BRANDON ASH-MOHAMMED, CHRISTOPHE DAVIDSON, COMEDIAN, COMEDY, ELVIRA KURT, GAY, LGBT, LGBTQ, MARTHA CHAVES, PAUL HUTCHESON, PRIDE, QUEER, RIVOLI, ROBERT WATSON, RON JOSOL, STAND UP, STANDUP, TED MORRIS, VONG SHOW

First time using our new backdrop. The last backdrop was made of vinyl and was super wrinkly and way too shiny, which kinda ruined the video and photos. I’m so excited by this new backdrop; it had no wrinkles at all and was a great exture for photos.

BRANDON ASH-MOHAMMED, CHRISTOPHE DAVIDSON, COMEDIAN, COMEDY, ELVIRA KURT, GAY, LGBT, LGBTQ, MARTHA CHAVES, PAUL HUTCHESON, PRIDE, QUEER, RIVOLI, ROBERT WATSON, RON JOSOL, STAND UP, STANDUP, TED MORRIS, VONG SHOW

Calm before the storm. All our tables are set up and ready to go before the show starts. Doors opening soon!

BRANDON ASH-MOHAMMED, CHRISTOPHE DAVIDSON, COMEDIAN, COMEDY, ELVIRA KURT, GAY, LGBT, LGBTQ, MARTHA CHAVES, PAUL HUTCHESON, PRIDE, QUEER, RIVOLI, ROBERT WATSON, RON JOSOL, STAND UP, STANDUP, TED MORRIS, VONG SHOW
BRANDON ASH-MOHAMMED, CHRISTOPHE DAVIDSON, COMEDIAN, COMEDY, ELVIRA KURT, GAY, LGBT, LGBTQ, MARTHA CHAVES, PAUL HUTCHESON, PRIDE, QUEER, RIVOLI, ROBERT WATSON, RON JOSOL, STAND UP, STANDUP, TED MORRIS, VONG SHOW

Love the view from the stage on to the audience. Rivoli is definitely one of the best venues in the entire city. Super fortunate to get to work with such an amazing venue and everyone who works there including Serge and JP.

BRANDON ASH-MOHAMMED, CHRISTOPHE DAVIDSON, COMEDIAN, COMEDY, ELVIRA KURT, GAY, LGBT, LGBTQ, MARTHA CHAVES, PAUL HUTCHESON, PRIDE, QUEER, RIVOLI, ROBERT WATSON, RON JOSOL, STAND UP, STANDUP, TED MORRIS, VONG SHOW

Ted Morris kicked off the show with an amazing set!

BRANDON ASH-MOHAMMED, CHRISTOPHE DAVIDSON, COMEDIAN, COMEDY, ELVIRA KURT, GAY, LGBT, LGBTQ, MARTHA CHAVES, PAUL HUTCHESON, PRIDE, QUEER, RIVOLI, ROBERT WATSON, RON JOSOL, STAND UP, STANDUP, TED MORRIS, VONG SHOW

Christophe Davidson performed a spellbinding set centred about mental illness in preparation for his performance at Just For Laughs in Montreal, Quebec!

BRANDON ASH-MOHAMMED, CHRISTOPHE DAVIDSON, COMEDIAN, COMEDY, ELVIRA KURT, GAY, LGBT, LGBTQ, MARTHA CHAVES, PAUL HUTCHESON, PRIDE, QUEER, RIVOLI, ROBERT WATSON, RON JOSOL, STAND UP, STANDUP, TED MORRIS, VONG SHOW
BRANDON ASH-MOHAMMED, CHRISTOPHE DAVIDSON, COMEDIAN, COMEDY, ELVIRA KURT, GAY, LGBT, LGBTQ, MARTHA CHAVES, PAUL HUTCHESON, PRIDE, QUEER, RIVOLI, ROBERT WATSON, RON JOSOL, STAND UP, STANDUP, TED MORRIS, VONG SHOW

Brandon Ash-Mohhammed was his usual effervescent self on stage.

BRANDON ASH-MOHAMMED, CHRISTOPHE DAVIDSON, COMEDIAN, COMEDY, ELVIRA KURT, GAY, LGBT, LGBTQ, MARTHA CHAVES, PAUL HUTCHESON, PRIDE, QUEER, RIVOLI, ROBERT WATSON, RON JOSOL, STAND UP, STANDUP, TED MORRIS, VONG SHOW

Martha Chaves was as dynamic as ever!

BRANDON ASH-MOHAMMED, CHRISTOPHE DAVIDSON, COMEDIAN, COMEDY, ELVIRA KURT, GAY, LGBT, LGBTQ, MARTHA CHAVES, PAUL HUTCHESON, PRIDE, QUEER, RIVOLI, ROBERT WATSON, RON JOSOL, STAND UP, STANDUP, TED MORRIS, VONG SHOW

First time I got to share the stage with Paul Hutcheson in years! So happy to see him and again. He always makes me laugh so hard!

BRANDON ASH-MOHAMMED, CHRISTOPHE DAVIDSON, COMEDIAN, COMEDY, ELVIRA KURT, GAY, LGBT, LGBTQ, MARTHA CHAVES, PAUL HUTCHESON, PRIDE, QUEER, RIVOLI, ROBERT WATSON, RON JOSOL, STAND UP, STANDUP, TED MORRIS, VONG SHOW

Ron Josol was in town from Los Angeles. Such a treat to have him on What Up! What Up! Toronto. Truly one of the great comedians in North America. One of my heroes when I first started comedy.

BRANDON ASH-MOHAMMED, CHRISTOPHE DAVIDSON, COMEDIAN, COMEDY, ELVIRA KURT, GAY, LGBT, LGBTQ, MARTHA CHAVES, PAUL HUTCHESON, PRIDE, QUEER, RIVOLI, ROBERT WATSON, RON JOSOL, STAND UP, STANDUP, TED MORRIS, VONG SHOW
BRANDON ASH-MOHAMMED, CHRISTOPHE DAVIDSON, COMEDIAN, COMEDY, ELVIRA KURT, GAY, LGBT, LGBTQ, MARTHA CHAVES, PAUL HUTCHESON, PRIDE, QUEER, RIVOLI, ROBERT WATSON, RON JOSOL, STAND UP, STANDUP, TED MORRIS, VONG SHOW

Robert Watson lit up the stage with his comedy, his high-heeled boots, and his electric impersonation of Cher!

BRANDON ASH-MOHAMMED, CHRISTOPHE DAVIDSON, COMEDIAN, COMEDY, ELVIRA KURT, GAY, LGBT, LGBTQ, MARTHA CHAVES, PAUL HUTCHESON, PRIDE, QUEER, RIVOLI, ROBERT WATSON, RON JOSOL, STAND UP, STANDUP, TED MORRIS, VONG SHOW
BRANDON ASH-MOHAMMED, CHRISTOPHE DAVIDSON, COMEDIAN, COMEDY, ELVIRA KURT, GAY, LGBT, LGBTQ, MARTHA CHAVES, PAUL HUTCHESON, PRIDE, QUEER, RIVOLI, ROBERT WATSON, RON JOSOL, STAND UP, STANDUP, TED MORRIS, VONG SHOW
BRANDON ASH-MOHAMMED, CHRISTOPHE DAVIDSON, COMEDIAN, COMEDY, ELVIRA KURT, GAY, LGBT, LGBTQ, MARTHA CHAVES, PAUL HUTCHESON, PRIDE, QUEER, RIVOLI, ROBERT WATSON, RON JOSOL, STAND UP, STANDUP, TED MORRIS, VONG SHOW

Elvira Kurt showed all of us how it’s done. Such a professional!

BRANDON ASH-MOHAMMED, CHRISTOPHE DAVIDSON, COMEDIAN, COMEDY, ELVIRA KURT, GAY, LGBT, LGBTQ, MARTHA CHAVES, PAUL HUTCHESON, PRIDE, QUEER, RIVOLI, ROBERT WATSON, RON JOSOL, STAND UP, STANDUP, TED MORRIS, VONG SHOW
BRANDON ASH-MOHAMMED, CHRISTOPHE DAVIDSON, COMEDIAN, COMEDY, ELVIRA KURT, GAY, LGBT, LGBTQ, MARTHA CHAVES, PAUL HUTCHESON, PRIDE, QUEER, RIVOLI, ROBERT WATSON, RON JOSOL, STAND UP, STANDUP, TED MORRIS, VONG SHOW
BRANDON ASH-MOHAMMED, CHRISTOPHE DAVIDSON, COMEDIAN, COMEDY, ELVIRA KURT, GAY, LGBT, LGBTQ, MARTHA CHAVES, PAUL HUTCHESON, PRIDE, QUEER, RIVOLI, ROBERT WATSON, RON JOSOL, STAND UP, STANDUP, TED MORRIS, VONG SHOW

My favourite part of the whole show, the cast photo! Oh the memories!

Filed Under: What Up! What Up! Toronto Tagged With: Brandon Ash-Mohammed, Christophe Davidson, Comedian, Comedy, Elvira Kurt, Gay, LGBT, LGBTQ, Martha Chaves, Paul Hutcheson, Pride, Queer, Rivoli, Robert Watson, Ron Josol, Stand Up, Standup, Ted Morris, Vong Show

RICE – An Asian Comedy Showcase

April 4, 2019 By vongshow

RICE Asian Comedy Showcase Vong Show Cassie Cao Leonard Chan Rivoli Toronto Standup Stand Up Comedy Comedian Ontario Canada Jennifer Hsiung Joe Vu Jeff Tseng Ronald Hae

Excited to announce RICE – An Asian Comedy Showcase, celebrating Asian Heritage Month with an all-star cast of Canada’s finest Asian comedians performing at the historic Rivoli. Tickets available now!

Starring Vong Show and Cassie Cao. Hosted by Leonard Chan.

Special performances by Joe Vu, Jennifer Hsiung, Ronald Hae, Jeff Tseng.

RICE Asian Comedy Showcase Vong Show Cassie Cao Leonard Chan Rivoli Toronto Standup Stand Up Comedy Comedian Ontario Canada Jennifer Hsiung Joe Vu Jeff Tseng Ronald Hae
RICE Asian Comedy Showcase Vong Show Cassie Cao Leonard Chan Rivoli Toronto Standup Stand Up Comedy Comedian Ontario Canada Jennifer Hsiung Joe Vu Jeff Tseng Ronald Hae
RICE Asian Comedy Showcase Vong Show Cassie Cao Leonard Chan Rivoli Toronto Standup Stand Up Comedy Comedian Ontario Canada Jennifer Hsiung Joe Vu Jeff Tseng Ronald Hae
RICE Asian Comedy Showcase Vong Show Cassie Cao Leonard Chan Rivoli Toronto Standup Stand Up Comedy Comedian Ontario Canada Jennifer Hsiung Joe Vu Jeff Tseng Ronald Hae

Filed Under: RICE Tagged With: Asian Heritage Month, Cassie Cao, Jeff Tseng, Jennifer Hsiung, Joe Vu, Leonard Chan, RICE, Rivoli, Ronald Hae, Vong Show

Up and Comers 7 presented by Queer and Present Danger was Amazing!

November 14, 2018 By vongshow

QAPD Queer and Present Danger Chanty Marostica Elvira Kurt Melanie Dahling Aba Amuquandoh Amar Singh Brad Graham Dustin George Hovey Nunes Agduk Honey Bennett Kelly Sanchuk Kez Vicario-Robinson Robin Valerie LGBT LGBTQ Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Rainbow Pride
What an honour to be on the part of the amazing lineup at Up and Comers 7 presented by Queer and Present Danger. The event was hosted by Chanty Marostica and anchored by Melissa Darling and Canadian comedy legend, Elvira Kurt.

QAPD Queer and Present Danger Chanty Marostica Elvira Kurt Melanie Dahling Aba Amuquandoh Amar Singh Brad Graham Dustin George Hovey Nunes Agduk Honey Bennett Kelly Sanchuk Kez Vicario-Robinson Robin Valerie LGBT LGBTQ Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Rainbow Pride
The Rivoli in Toronto is a gorgeous venue. I arrived early to set up video cameras to capture the show, and the whole setup of the room is basically perfect for filming. There are great sight lines all around and the technical and wait staff were super helpful. The lovely Robin Valerie came early to help set up the cameras to ensure everyone got great footage.


I performed in the second half of the lineup. The crowd was so amazing and supportive, even cheering when I adjusted the stool! It’s always great when a crowd keeps their energy up all night long, especially since I was near the end of the show.

QAPD Queer and Present Danger Chanty Marostica Elvira Kurt Melanie Dahling Aba Amuquandoh Amar Singh Brad Graham Dustin George Hovey Nunes Agduk Honey Bennett Kelly Sanchuk Kez Vicario-Robinson Robin Valerie LGBT LGBTQ Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Rainbow Pride
The amazing Elvira Kurt closed the show with a remarkable set. The new generation of queer comedians all looked on in awe as Elvira commented on every single performer’s act from earlier in the night. It really meant so much to the comedians to be acknowledged by their hero.

QAPD Queer and Present Danger Chanty Marostica Elvira Kurt Melanie Dahling Aba Amuquandoh Amar Singh Brad Graham Dustin George Hovey Nunes Agduk Honey Bennett Kelly Sanchuk Kez Vicario-Robinson Robin Valerie LGBT LGBTQ Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Rainbow Pride
Not everyone was able to stay after the show to take this cast photo, but definitely happy we were able to get the rest of us in together. What an amazing end to a memorable night.

Filed Under: Live Performances Tagged With: Aba Amuquandoh, Amar Singh, Brad Graham, Chanty Marostica, Dustin George Hovey, Elvira Kurt, Gunes Agduk, Honey Bennett, Kelly Sanchuk, Kez Vicario-Robinson, Melissa Dahling, Robin Valerie, The Rivoli, Vong Show

Gay Games Paris 2018 Was a Life-Changing Experience

October 3, 2018 By vongshow

Participating as an athlete representing Canada at Gay Games Paris 2018 was a dream come true. I had last participated at Gay Games Cleveland 2014 where I took home three medals and was really excited to visit Paris for the first time. Everything I experienced in Paris far exceeded my expectations and by the end of my time there, I knew I had experienced a truly life-changing moment.

Vong Show Stand Up Standup Comedy Comedian Funny LOL Asian Gaysian Laotian Laos China Chinese Athlete Gay Games Paris 2018 Hong Kong Volleyball Table Tennis Badminton Gold Silver Bronze Medal Union Pearson Express Toronto Airport
My trip started out on the Union Pearson Express train from downtown Toronto over to Pearson Airport. What a sweet ride; I love the new train system as it cuts out the long commute to the airport down to just 25 minutes. The UP Express was built for the recent Pan Am Games in Toronto and hopefully Toronto continues to invest in infrastructure moving forward.

Vong Show Stand Up Standup Comedy Comedian Funny LOL Asian Gaysian Laotian Laos China Chinese Athlete Gay Games Paris 2018 Hong Kong Volleyball Table Tennis Badminton Gold Silver Bronze Medal Union Pearson Express Toronto Airport Mike Jancik
Before I move on further, I really want to thank my partner Mike Jancik, without whom the trip would not have been possible. I had decided that after leaving my full-time job last year to focus on comedy that taking an expensive trip to Paris would not have been the best idea. With Mike’s encouragement and support I was able to go to Gay Games Paris 2018 and for that I will always be grateful.

The plane ride itself was pretty eventful. We boarded the red-eye flight to Paris and arrived at 8:00 a.m. local time. There was a woman on the plane who was fairly abusive to the airline staff including assertions they had given her the wrong seat (which was later dispelled when she called her friend to confirm what had been booked). Mike had actually offered to switch seats with her to diffuse the situation but it seemed like she was more in it for the drama than to find an actual solution. In a twist of irony, she ended up seated next to two sets of babies who cried for most of the plane ride, at which I couldn’t help but laugh.

Vong Show Stand Up Standup Comedy Comedian Funny LOL Asian Gaysian Laotian Laos China Chinese Athlete Gay Games Paris 2018 Hong Kong Volleyball Table Tennis Badminton Gold Silver Bronze Medal Union Pearson Express Toronto Airport Mike Jancik Opening Ceremonies
Upon arriving in Paris, our first event was to march in the Opening Ceremonies. For me, this is one of the most important moments of the entire games. To march in with your fellow countrymen and women is truly an honour and you truly feel the connection of being Canadian and truly respected as an athlete. On an outside note, it’s refreshing to be able to answer “Canadian” to the question of “Where are you from?” and not get a follow-up question, which is often the case in Canada (“No, I mean where are you really from?” Aargh).

Vong Show Stand Up Standup Comedy Comedian Funny LOL Asian Gaysian Laotian Laos China Chinese Athlete Gay Games Paris 2018 Hong Kong Volleyball Table Tennis Badminton Gold Silver Bronze Medal Union Pearson Express Toronto Airport Mike Jancik Opening Ceremonies
There were over 60 countries represented and Team China was definitely one of the favourites, as their enthusiasm for the Opening Ceremonies shown through brightly. I would later go on to compete against Team China in multiple sports, as I specialize in racquet sports tennis, badminton and table tennis.

Vong Show Stand Up Standup Comedy Comedian Funny LOL Asian Gaysian Laotian Laos China Chinese Athlete Gay Games Paris 2018 Hong Kong Volleyball Table Tennis Badminton Gold Silver Bronze Medal Union Pearson Express Toronto Airport Mike Jancik Chinatown Australia Sydney Melbourn
My trip to Paris was split into two parts, the first week consisting of four sports, badminton, volleyball, tennis and table tennis. The second week would be a relaxation week after the Gay Games ended starting with a full spa day including massage followed by a week of exploration in Paris. The first week I rarely saw any parts of Paris outside of the sports venues themselves. I didn’t actually try French cuisine until the second week, as I was worried my stomach would act up by trying new foods during the Gay Games. Mike was sweet enough to book us an AirBNB near Paris Chinatown so that I could eat Asian food the entire first week.

The first team we ran into was Team Australia on the train ride into downtown Paris. Loved that everyone was wearing their team uniforms all over the city.

Vong Show Stand Up Standup Comedy Comedian Funny LOL Asian Gaysian Laotian Laos China Chinese Athlete Gay Games Paris 2018 Hong Kong Volleyball Table Tennis Badminton Gold Silver Bronze Medal
First sport was badminton singles the day after Opening Ceremonies (Sunday). What a way to start a tournament, as badminton singles is by far the most physical demanding of all my sports. Further compounding the physical demands was that our venue did not have air conditioning and Paris was going through a record high heat wave. On the first day we played a total of 15 hours starting 8 a.m. and not ending until 11 p.m. Many athletes withdrew midway through the day due to the conditions, especially if they wanted to save their bodies for upcoming doubles play later that week. I somehow made my way through the draw and won my quarterfinals match sending me through to the semifinals which were scheduled to be played on Thursday.

Vong Show Stand Up Standup Comedy Comedian Funny LOL Asian Gaysian Laotian Laos China Chinese Athlete Gay Games Paris 2018 Hong Kong Volleyball Table Tennis Badminton Gold Silver Bronze Medal
After a short sleep, I woke up Monday morning and headed off to my second sport, Table Tennis. Being the reigning Gold Medalist in my division from Gay Games Cleveland 2014, I had high hopes for the tournament. Reality sunk in pretty quickly, though, as I ran into Team China in the first round and was promptly eliminated. On the bright side, it gave me a free afternoon of wandering around the city watching other sports play.

Vong Show Stand Up Standup Comedy Comedian Funny LOL Asian Gaysian Laotian Laos China Chinese Athlete Gay Games Paris 2018 Hong Kong Volleyball Table Tennis Badminton Gold Silver Bronze Medal
Tuesday was a real turning point for the event and for my life as a whole. My doubles tennis match kicked off the afternoon where I met my randomly assigned doubles partner from Switzerland by way of Indonesia. We toughed out a close two-set match 7-5 6-4 against a very talented team, coming back from a break down in each set. This placed us in the quarterfinals and one win away from a medal (in tennis there is no Bronze medal match, as both semifinal losers receive a Bronze medal).

The real highlight of the whole event though came by way of meeting a group of international Asians from Belgium, Calgary, and Switzerland. After a quick stop-off at the Team Canada event, we wandered off to find some tasty dim sum, which was a lot more difficult to find than anticipated. It wasn’t until nearly 2 a.m. that we found a place but the wait was definitely worth it. We all sat down and shared our stories and experiences and the conversation went long into the night and into the morning. The bond that was built that night will last a lifetime. The conversation truly showed that through our struggles and our triumphs that there is more we have in common than not as we navigate our lives. Truly the most special element of the Gay Games for me is to meet athletes from around the world with whom I would otherwise not have ever met.

Vong Show Stand Up Standup Comedy Comedian Funny LOL Asian Gaysian Laotian Laos China Chinese Athlete Gay Games Paris 2018 Hong Kong Volleyball Table Tennis Badminton Gold Silver Bronze Medal
My one and only team sport during the Gay Games was volleyball. It was an odd experience not captaining a team, but I was really fortunate in that my captain from Chile was so incredible. He was able to set the tone for a fun environment and our team quickly gelled and played wonderfully against teams who had been together for a long time.

Within our division of 32 teams, we advanced to the semifinals where we lost a close match to the eventual Gold medalists. We then had a second chance to win Bronze that was halted in a close set, losing 26-24 on a backcourt violation (where a backcourt player hits the ball above the net but did not take off behind the attack line).

The loss was especially heartbreaking, as the volleyball tournament ran longer than expected forcing an unexpected disqualification from the tennis tournament. Not to get too deep into it, but I thought I had gotten permission from the organizers at the tennis venue to delay the start of our match by an hour; however, they later were overruled by the tournament director and the message was sent to me while I was on the volleyball court so I wasn’t able to respond. Without hearing from me they had no choice but to disqualify our team, which unfortunately was heartbreaking seeing how upset I had made my tennis partner.

At this point in the tournament, I was at a real low point. Having lost two chances at a Bronze medal in volleyball and then losing a chance at even competing for a medal in tennis. I was so physically and emotionally drained that that I considered not competing in the badminton semifinals the next day, as I only had a couple hours of rest and was worried I would injure myself pushing myself to the highest of my ability without having health insurance in a foreign country.

Vong Show Stand Up Standup Comedy Comedian Funny LOL Asian Gaysian Laotian Laos China Chinese Athlete Gay Games Paris 2018 Hong Kong Volleyball Table Tennis Badminton Gold Silver Bronze Medal
Luckily for me, Mike once again came to the rescue with a great pep talk that got me up and ready for the badminton tournament.

Unfortunately the day got off to a horrible start as I was barely able to move around the court during my semifinal match and was easily dismissed. Having now gone 0-4 in chances to win a medal I knew I would have one final shot a medal later that afternoon in a winner-take-all Bronze medal showdown against a player from Russia whom I had become quite close to over the course of the week.

The match started off well and I took the first set in a tight contest. My opponent came roaring back in the second set to tie the match. After a full week of emotional and physical ups and downs, I knew I had one set to go to give it my all. The environment was especially difficult as my opponent had several friends cheering him on and I had banished Mike from coming to watch me play that day, as I really expected to play horribly given my lack of sleep and preparation.

The final set came down to the wire and on match point at 20-19, I hit the birdie/shuttlecock on a trajectory that was likely to take it out of the court, tying the match at 20-20. In a dramatic turn of events, my opponent was unable to get out of the way of the shuttlecock which grazed his shoulder and gave me the point, ending the match in dramatic fashion. His friends were very gracious and cheered us both after the final point. I collapsed to the ground and stayed there for a few minutes, as this was one of the most well-earned medals I’ve ever received in my life. The glory of the moment brought tears to my eyes and will be a match that will stay with me for a long time.

Vong Show Stand Up Standup Comedy Comedian Funny LOL Asian Gaysian Laotian Laos China Chinese Athlete Gay Games Paris 2018 Hong Kong Volleyball Table Tennis Badminton Gold Silver Bronze Medal
With the competitions now officially over I was able to end my week of sport in Paris hanging out with players from around the world (in this case Australia and Germany) whom I had met at previous Gay Games and Outgames. The connection to them after so many years felt completely fresh and I was excited to know that the new faces I had met in Paris would join this group of players from around the world whom I could call friends for life.

I hope to see most, if not all, of them again during my travels and if any of them ever want to visit Canada, I will be more than happy to show them some Canadian hospitality.

Filed Under: Gay Sports Tagged With: Asian, Athlete, Badminton, Bronze, China, Chinese, Comedian, Comedy, Funny, Gay Games, Gaysian, Gold, Hong Kong 2022, Laos, Laotian, LOL, Medal, Mike Jancik, Opening Ceremonies, Paris 2018, Silver, Stand Up, Standup, Table Tennis, Tennis, Toronto Airport, Union Pearson Express, Volleyball, Vong Show

CONNECT WITH VONG

Follow Vong’s journey across his Social Networks including photos, videos, stories and more!

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

JOIN THE VONGTOURAGE!

Sign up for exclusive early access to tickets and merchandise plus get notified when Vong performs in your city!

ABOUT VONG SHOW

Official spokesperson for gay, super cute Asians. Sharing the Gaysian perspective on culture, sports and trending topics. Creator of RICE Asian Comedy Showcase and founder of Comedy Cares, partnering comedians and charities to raise money for worthy causes.

  • Purchase Tickets
  • Watch Videos
  • Order Merch
  • Learn About Vong

Copyright © 2023 Vong Show · WordPress · Log in