Sneha Mendes, a writer-producer hailing from Goa, India and now residing in the vibrant city of New York, has a unique story to tell. Raised in a family brimming with eccentricities and quirks, Sneha’s life has been a whimsical journey filled with laughter and tears. Inspired by her family’s ability to navigate through the highs and lows of life with humor and resilience, Sneha developed a deep appreciation for the art of storytelling. Delving into the realms of fantasy, drama, and comedy, Sneha’s narratives are a reflection of her personal experiences and observations. With a passion for performing, Sneha honed her skills in Improv and Sketch Comedy at Brooklyn Comedy Collective, where she discovered her love for the stage. Through her engaging and heartfelt tales, Sneha invites audiences to join her on a journey filled with laughter, insight, and above all, the power of storytelling.
What is it that drew you to New York?
My biggest dream in life has been to move to New York. I have wanted it so much that it has manifested itself, and now I am here! Sometimes it doesn’t feel real, being so close to Saturday Night Live, my dream job, on the streets of my comfort show ‘How I Met Your Mother,’ I’m so lucky to experience it all, and it inspires me to continue to be better. I felt like New York would be the place where something formative would happen to me and my career. I have grown so much in my time so far, and the city has rewarded my growth with opportunities beyond my wildest dreams. Getting to work on productions, and with people who I never would have dreamed of, New York has given me so much more than even I could have imagined.
But also the inspiration in the city is endless. New York City is alive and vibrant and everyday it pushes me. I see so much unfold everyday that I can bring home and use as a scene, or character, often not even diverting from the real events. I feel as if it was the idea of what New York had to offer that drew me here, but it is the experience of New York City that will keep me here.
What is it about New York that inspires so much comedy?
There is such a rich comedy history to New York city, with so many comedians coming from the city itself, there is such a high standard of what is funny. But I love the challenge, it really raises the bar for me and my comedy writing, and pushes me to continue to get better. It feels like comedy is just part of New York’s culture, in a fast paced environment everyone has their own voice, it feels like I can’t ever escape it. I love being close to my dreams, and afterall New York is the home to Saturday Night Live, which I would love someday to produce on, so it’s comforting knowing that I am so near to it.
Do you take it in and what is your favorite medium for enjoying comedy in New York?
I have always been a sit-com person as my favorite form of comedy. But being in New York, I have really started to enjoy comedy clubs. They really feel like an NYC thing to do, and like the city the talent is so diverse and can speak to everybody. I also enjoy and think there are some hidden gems in New York comedy theater, and people are always willing to share tips of the trade. I find myself staying after the show at clubs in order to talk to the performers so I can deepen my knowledge of comedy performance.
What is your favorite neighborhood to shoot in?
It’s got to be Manhattan! Shooting in a place that was the backdrop of the films and shows I watched as a child is crazy. Everytime I’m filming I almost have to pinch myself. It’s a real “Hey Mom I Made It!” moment, that will never get old.
Are there any can’t miss performances that wouldn’t show up in any guidebooks or google searches?
I think that anything Mike Weiss does is going to be amazing, he is one of those people I constantly keep an eye out for. He’s just so original and unique, and I can tell that he has a bright future ahead of him, he is just incredibly funny. Also Katy Berry, my ex-professor has a pretty insane show called Diamond Goddess Crystal P*s*y, and I am so excited to follow her and see what she will do next!
Where have you experienced the best Improv or Sketch Comedy in the City?
My first ever improv show will never be topped. I took the class just to put it to work in film, but after that first performance, I felt an innate sense of satisfaction like I just did something worthwhile. I felt good about performing, just for the sake of a performance.
Do you have a favorite place to go and watch live comedy?
I wish I had a chance to go to the comedy clubs, especially the Comedy Cellar more often. I, unfortunately, don’t know of any underground clubs otherwise I would definitely shout them out!
Do you have a favorite comedian or writer in New York?
I would say Katie Boyle, she’s an Irish comedian based in New York City, and I love her stuff. I would give anything to meet her, become her friend, and pick her comedic brain.
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