On Tuesday Jan. 17, the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre will be hosting Does This Taste Funny?, a stand-up routine from comedian Ali Hassan about his experiences in the food industry.

Hassan’s goal growing up was to have his own cooking show, and he describes The Food Network as having been his “holy grail.” Though he has yet to achieve this goal, he has been working in the food industry for 15 years as a chef, caterer and cooking instructor. He has also made a name for himself as an entertainer, having a successful career as a stand-up comedian, radio host and actor. 

This show revolves around Hassan’s history as both a professional entertainer and cook, highlighting many of the intolerances associated with food that are so unique within foodie culture. 

“You must never do this; you have to do this. It’s like it’s so rigid and it’s diametrically opposed to what’s actually happening in so many kitchens,” he says in an article from CentreStage. “You go to a kitchen, it’s Greek owners, Italian chef, Sri Lankan dishwashers, Ecuadorian sous chef, it’s like a United Nations back there. Obviously, all of them can swear in all these languages, but some of them could even carry-on little bits of conversation and it’s like this real place of acceptance, because ‘hey, we’re all doing the same horrible job!’”

Admission for this event normally costs $35, but university students receive a $10 discount. The show will start at 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 17 and tickets can be purchased from FirstOntario PAC’s website.