by Will Thomas
Reese Dowdy hails from Missoula, MT and started stand up almost 3 years ago. Since then, he has performed in three fundraisers for LGBT youth, been to the finals in two comedy competitions and has helped kick off Pride for the past two years.
So Reese, if that's your real name?! I've heard you've been making a big splash in Missoula. What have you been up to?
I've just been going to as many shows as I can. My most recent one was in Helena. I helped kick off LGBT pride with a show.
Awesome. How strong is the comedy scene for LGBT in Missoula?
If you make a show specifically for queer people, they will show up and it'll be a big crowd with hilarious queer comedians. Otherwise it's mostly scattered.
That's a great feeling though, to know you’re helping bring another culture to the forefront in a positive light. Speaking of light, what's your favorite color combination?
I'm a sucker for all bright colors. The gay in me will just say anything with a rainbow on it. But I feel like that's a bit of a cop out. I'll say purple and green.
Whoa really? Had you pegged as a blue and yellow. Great choices though. Ok so, to switch gears, what is your day job?
I work full time at a home health care company. I do data entry in the quality improvement department. Consumer Direct, if you want the name
I'll file that away for my own use. Us comics need health care too! Speaking of, do you feel you'll leave Missoula to pursue comedy?
At some point, yes. I've thought about moving to Atlanta.
Nice. A connoisseur of high temperatures then?
I highly prefer warmer temperatures.
I knew there was a reason we get along so well! So. This is your first Dreyfest. Are you a fan of Julia Louis-Dreyfus?
Is that the guy who sings songs in a clown suit? I'm kidding. She's fantastic. I don't watch a lot of TV though so Seinfeld is probably the only thing I've seen her in.
Well, the festival as a whole is excited to have you, Reese. Any parting words of wisdom?
Be the gay you wish to see in the world.
That's deep. And honest. Thank you for your time, and I'll see you in August!
See ya!
Be on the lookout for Reese at the Dreyfest Comedy Night this August 11th at Art House Cinema & Pub in downtown Billings, MT! Full schedule of events coming soon!
