Aruhan Galieva
Published: Tuesday 24th May 2022
One random comedian, eight random questions; it's the ultimate test of funny person and fate. In our hotseat this week is Aruhan Galieva, who's already done stuff that would make lots of longer-serving comics green-eyed with envy - more on that in a minute. So how would Aruhan introduce herself?
"I'm a bat-lovin' actor, writer, singer, intersectional environmentalist and freshly-squeezed comedian... catchy, right?"
Right - and you can catch her Brighton Fringe debut next week - a work in progress called Eco Maniac, in which "I'm going to navigate the mammoth headf*ck that is the climate crisis, as well as explore my experience as a mixed race British-Kazakhstani woman. Featuring original music written and performed by me (there's some absolute bangers in there if I do say so myself)."
As Galieva suggested earlier, alongside the comedy and music she also boasts some eye-catching acting credits, appearing everywhere from Shakespeare's Globe to Black Mirror and Doctor Who. Right now though, she's stoked about a big comedy boost, from a fellow comic who's helping newer alternative types attend that showcase by the sea.
"I'm SUPER excited because I've won the 2022 Luke Rollason Memorial Bursary Award which has supported me to take it to Brighton Fringe," says Galieva. "Luke Rollason has been beyond amazing in the mentorship, help, support and joyous giggles he has endlessly provided."
First giggle worst giggle? Could work. Aruhan Galieva, your Random 8 await.
Who is - or was - your most interesting relative?
This depends who you ask, but the answer probably has to be my dad who is a Kazakhstani virtuoso violinist. During the pandemic, our relationship really evolved and through him it's been amazing to connect with my Kazakh heritage in a deeper way. He's kind of a mythic figure amongst friends, he has to be seen to be believed.
I once asked him what religion he was and he answered 'Violinist'.
What's the weirdest job you've had, outside of comedy?
This is my worst kept secret because I am so deeply ashamed of this but I can't stop telling people. Okay... so, I used to work for a psychic company as a psychic. I was 19 and I was like, yes, I love Astrology, I love Tarot - DREAM JOB.
I lasted three weeks because my conscious couldn't take it. There were people calling me up like, "should I leave my husband and kids?" and I was like... 'I'm in too deep mannn. CALL Samaritans!!!' I could tell you some WILD things about how they operate... just to confirm I am NOT psychic. However I still am a card-carrying astrology ho.
Who are you most envious of?
The body of Dwayne The Rock Johnson. I don't fancy him. I just want his body to be my body.
Ever gatecrashed anything interesting?
I am the most notorious rule-abider but I did blag my way into being the Placard Holder for the Kazakhstan Olympic team to be welcomed into the 2012 Olympic Games. NOT as high risk as the opening ceremonies but an unforgettable experience. Zero Regrets.
Which film or show would you love to have been in, and which part?
I was in S12 of Doctor Who which was a dream come true! My ULTIMATE dream is to be in/write for the Holy Trinity of sci-fi, like Simon Pegg has. Star Wars, Star Trek and Doctor Who.
I would play an alien's wet poo to be in Star Trek.
What's the best thing in your wardrobe?
I quit fast fashion four years ago. I am basically Nan-Chic. Almost my entire wardrobe has kindly been donated by many, many nanas.
Ever met a particularly great or awful famous person?
Obviously working with Jodie Whittaker. Nothing phases her. She's an absolute legend.
Also did a gig with my comedy idol Isy Suttie last month, I had my hair cut like her as a teen and everything, I was OBSESSED - that haircut was even my passport photo. We had a drink after and she was so sound considering the dynamic is never going to be great when someone introduces themselves to you as 'the super mega fan'.
When were you most embarrassed?
I was doing a Shakespeare with some big Shakespearean actors. On stage, I gambled on a fart and lost.
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