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Winnipeg Free Press - PRINT EDITION
Illness claims local 'sit-down' standup comedian
WINNIPEG has lost one of its truly unique comedy performers.
Susan Nisbet, who was left quadriplegic by a sudden neurological illness that struck her at age 37 but then began to write and perform what she called "sit-down standup," died Wednesday at the age of 40.
Winnipeg Comedy Festival artistic director Al Rae said Nisbet was beloved throughout the comedy community; a Facebook posting by Elmwood-raised comedian Bruce Clark said, "There are people in the world who have an energy and a spirit that are indescribable and so life affirming; Susan was that person."
Nisbet, who took part in Rumor's Comedy Club's Funniest Person With a Day Job Contest and performed at last year's comedy festival, was frank and funny in describing her life on life support.
"I wasn't always in a wheelchair," she said to a woman in the audience during a recent performance at Rumor's, which can be viewed on YouTube. "For 37 years, I was just like you -- except my (boobs) weren't as perky."
Nisbet was scheduled to take part in a Just for Laughs talent showcase being held in Winnipeg this weekend. She is survived by her husband Kent, son Riley and daughter Tia.
Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition November 20, 2010 C2
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