Meet Mason LeCompte | Stand up Comedian

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mason LeCompte and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mason, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I risked everything, when I decided to pack up my few belongings that would fit into my station wagon, take out a bunch of credit cards and drive cross country from Va Beach Virginia to Los Angeles, California. I left my comfortable lifestyle, all my friends and family to pursue my dreams. This was before GPS, so the very act of driving cross country with nothing but AAA trip ticket was risky in itself. I remember, arriving in Los Angeles and staring at a map of the city, overwhelmed by the vastness of it all. Luckily I quickly was able to find jobs in Production, and paid off all of the credit cards I I had taken out. Since moving to Los Angeles, I have had the privilege of with working with some of the greatest talents in the film and television industry. I even got to share an on screen kiss with Jordan Peele in they show Childrens Hospital. I took another huge risk when I decided to try Stand Up Comedy for the first time. I risked making a complete fool out of myself, but I somehow managed to pull it off, and actually make people laugh. I feel like the world needs more laughter and I would like to harness my passion, in a way that helps others. Ultimately taking risks is scary, but it can lead to the most fulfilling and exciting experiences in life.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
When I was a child, I was diagnosed with a learning disability, and I was put into special education classes. As a result, I was badly bullied and never felt like I fit in with any of the other kids. I often retreated into my imagination, creating entire worlds for myself. Imagination and creativity became my escape from my awkward adolescence. I was always painting, drawing and putting on little skits for my mother. When I was in high school, the drama department run by Nancy Curtis was amazing and I became heavily involved in the theatrical productions there, I finally felt as if I belonged. After moving to LA, I worked on various films and television shows, and even landed a speaking roll on the hit comedy series Childrens Hospital. My focus was mainly on filmmaking and acting, but it can be difficult to raise money and get a cast and crew together, I have always enjoyed telling jokes which I inherited from my father. I decided to try Stand up Comedy. My first time doing Stand Up was at an open mic run by Sally Mullins. I was so nervous but I received tons of positive feedback and encouragement from the other comedians. I knew I had found my purpose and calling and quickly began to book comedy shows all over Los Angeles. Los Angeles can be a predatory place for artists which is why I love helping my partner Kevin Heisinger produce a comedy show/open mic that provides a supportive community for local comedians. Eventually, I want to use my art for charity that focuses on helping animals.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
When I have friends visit, I always take them to the Santa Monica Pier. Another place I like to take people from out of town is Yamashiro which has a fascinating history, and a spectacular view of all of Los Angeles plus it’s haunted. Speaking of haunted, The Comedy Store is a great spot to catch a comedy show. It’s always fun to catch a comedy show at the Comedy Chateau, or The Ice House Comedy club as well. Last but not least is our local favorite hang out where we do a weekly mic/show on Tuesdays called the Roost Cocktail bar.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to thank my partner Kevin Heisinger for his love and encouragement.

Instagram: @masonlecompte

Facebook: Mason LeCompte

Youtube: @masonlecompte

Image Credits
Mike Shwartz photography