Finding Her Center: Elaine Chang’s Comedy Journey
Join Elaine live on Monday, February 3 at 7:00pm at the New Talent Showcase at Gotham Comedy (Check the post for the link)
Rupt & Rise is thrilled to feature Elaine Huie Chang, a rising star in the comedy world who proves it’s never too late to chase your dreams. In 2024 alone, Elaine graced the stage over 15 times, captivating audiences with her sharp wit and unique perspective. She’s shared the spotlight with comedy legends, including the surreal experience of having Jim Gaffigan open for her before she took the mic and, on another unforgettable evening, opening for Jerry Seinfeld. Recently, New York Magazine recognized her as an up-and-coming comic to watch.
Beyond her growing success in comedy, Elaine is also a certified yoga instructor, seamlessly blending mindfulness and humor to bring balance to her life on and off stage. Inspired by a new chapter in her journey after her son left for college, Elaine boldly leapt into the world of stand-up, uncovering not only her comedic talent but also the transformative joy of connecting with audiences through laughter. Whether delivering punchlines or finding inner peace, Elaine shows us all the power of courage, reinvention, and humor.
Catch Elaine live on Monday, February 3 at 7:00pm at the New Talent Showcase at Gotham Comedy
The Catalyst: What led you to choose comedy as the next chapter in your life?
My son’s got a big presence because he’s a dancer. He left for the University of Southern California and that’s very far from NYC. And just like that, it created a void - a big emptiness in me - a hole. I felt like a DONUT, I could not find my center. I was empty. I realized I needed something to fill the void and that’s when I decided to be a jelly donut. I love who I am but there’s always room for more because “more is more”. Who made up that philosophy that says “less is more”? That doesn’t even make sense.
What caught me off guard were the unexpected waves of emotion that came with his departure. As a parent, you prepare them to fly, so here I am, preparing for their whole life to “bird launch” them into the world…but I didn’t realize I’ve been doing such a good job that he made it all the way across the country. Fly baby fly! I did good, but you’re never quite ready for the experience of being an “empty nester”. That’s when comedy found me—or maybe I found it.
It was the perfect challenge: a way to learn something completely new and fill my hole. Learning something new triggers dopamine, the brain’s little gift for pleasure and reward, and I’ll admit, I loved the rush. The thrill of it, the satisfaction of figuring it out, and the sheer joy of making people laugh—it was exactly what I needed. Plus, let’s be real: I’ve always wanted to be funny.
First Steps: Can you tell me about your experience walking into your first comedy class?
I had absolutely no idea what to expect when I walked into my first comedy class—it had been decades since I’d been in a classroom setting just for me. The mix of people was incredible—every type of weirdo you can imagine, and I mean that in the best possible way because it was perfectly imperfect. It was electric, exciting, and a little overwhelming all at once.
The whole process was nerve-wracking. From preparing material to being critiqued, figuring out what’s funny, and trying to connect with an audience—it was a rollercoaster. I went from scared to nervous to full-on shivering, each emotion giving way to a new sensation. It was as if my body was saying, “Let’s keep moving forward, even if we’re terrified.” Looking back, those jitters were just part of the magic of starting something completely outside my comfort zone.
Community: How would you describe the connections you’ve made in the comedy world?
My classmates have been incredibly supportive—we’ve built this little community that feels like a lifeline. We even formed a group that tries to meet on Mondays in a studio. The generosity in this group is amazing—people are always sharing advice, suggesting mentors, and recommending new classes and opportunities to grow. It’s such a gift to be surrounded by people who truly understand the journey, cheer each other on, and genuinely want to see everyone succeed as we navigate this exciting, unknown path together.
I also want to put in that I went to Manhattan comedy school run by Andy Engel A better in The Comedy world. He’s been very supportive in giving me opportunities, encouraging me to keep going to bring communities together for laughs.
Transformations: In what ways has doing comedy changed the way you see yourself or engage with the world?
I’ve learned to laugh at how wonderfully unserious life is. Life itself is the punchline—it’s a joke! So why not laugh? Laughter has this incredible power to heal, and embracing that has completely transformed how I showed up in the world. “The undoing” of the doing began…..I realized all we have learned in the movies is not true. It’s an illusion of the truth. Don’t fall for it. It’s not what they tell you on Disney. I am Prince Charming! I invite you out, I plan the date, I buy the flowers and get you a nice outfit so you can look cute.
Unexpected Joys: What has been the most surprising or unexpected joy in your journey into comedy?
The overwhelming support from my family and community has been the biggest surprise. They show up in the most unexpected ways! People I haven’t seen in years will turn up at a show, and I’ll literally scream when I see them. My heart feels like it’s jumping out of my chest every time—it’s pure joy.
Funny Business: Can you share the story of the first time you got a big laugh on stage? How did that moment feel?
The first big laugh I got was when I joked about USC standing for the "University of Spoiled Children"—because, let’s be real, it kind of is. The room just erupted, and it caught me so off guard that I almost laughed along with them! It was this amazing moment where I realized, “Oh, they get it, and they’re with me.” That laugh felt like the ultimate validation—it was like the crowd and I were in on this inside joke together.
Connections: How has pursuing comedy affected your relationships, especially with your son?
Pursuing comedy has been about more than just making people laugh. I’m setting an example of courage for my children. I want them to see that it’s never too late to learn something new or take a leap of faith. Now my son looks at me and says, “Mommy can learn new things and be funny too, huh?” It’s this mix of pride and amazement that deepens our connection. He’s inspired, and that’s everything to me.
Age and Humor: How do you think your life experiences at 50 influence your comedic voice or perspective?
Well, if you ask yourself the same question at 25 and again at 50, you’re going to get very different answers, aren’t you? My priorities have shifted so much. At 50, I want to live with lightness—in laughter and in life. I’ve learned that my younger self had a completely different view of what mattered. Now, real human connections, vulnerability, and silliness are what I value most. And honestly? The most attractive person to me is the one who can make me laugh.
Advice: What insights would you share with someone considering a big, bold leap into something new like comedy?
If you’re asking me—100% just do it. The only thing standing in your way is your monkey mind! In yoga, we’re taught to tame that monkey mind because it’s always causing trouble. It’s the voice of doubt and hesitation, but here’s the thing: your thoughts aren’t really your own until you’ve lived your own authentic experiences. Most of what’s in your head is just other people’s baggage. The only way to find your truth is to take the leap.
