Andrew Barr, a comedian and former addict, is gearing up to film his first comedy special, named “The 13th Hour,” at Toronto’s Comedy Bar Danforth this upcoming weekend. Prior to his performance, he intends to challenge himself by running on a treadmill continuously for 12 hours. As the marathon nears its end, a live audience will join in, and Barr will deliver his hour-long stand-up routine. The purpose behind this unique event is to raise funds for the rehabilitation center that played a crucial role in his recovery more than two years ago.
During an interview with Gill Deacon, Barr likened the show to a representation of battling drug and alcohol addiction, where the audience serves as a metaphorical intervention and a return to a supportive community. He described the treadmill as a symbol of addiction, trapping individuals in a repetitive cycle that gradually wears them down until they acknowledge the need to stop and break free from its hold.
The treadmill segment of the performance will be streamed live, featuring two comedians per hour providing commentary. Barr has been diligently training since January in anticipation of the physical challenges of the event. Despite the isolating nature of his preparation, he expressed his eagerness to conclude the training and embrace the communal aspect, emphasizing the importance of support in sobriety.
Barr expressed curiosity about the audience’s role in sustaining his energy levels throughout the show, pondering the extent to which their presence can rejuvenate a performer. Drawing on his extensive experience in stand-up comedy, he reflected on how the crowd’s energy and support can elevate a performance, even in challenging circumstances. He looks forward to exploring this dynamic and relying on the audience as his source of energy during the show.
For more insights from Andrew Barr, the full interview is accessible on our YouTube channel and podcast, where he delves into his life pre-rehab, the impact of substance abuse on his comedy, and the challenges of performing in bar settings.