Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias
Justin Stephens Photo
Las Vegas, N.M. – One of the top stand-up comedians in the country will perform at Highlands University Sept. 9 at 8 p.m. at the John A. Wilson Complex, 1241 9th St. Doors open at 6 p.m.
Gabriel Iglesias, also known as “Fluffy,” routinely sells out to audiences around the globe from Madison Square Garden in New York City to venues in the United Kingdom, Europe and Australia, among other countries.
Critics describe Iglesias as a witty, electrifying and talented performer who consistently provides his audiences with a unique and hilarious comedy experience. He is popular among fans of all ages and walks of life.
Iglesias said he draws his comedy material from his daily life.
“If anything I’m telling stories about the misadventures of my friends and family,” Iglesias said. “I never write down stories, so I just have to tell them and see if they get a laugh, and it’s not just a funny story in my own head. If it works in a small club, I keep working on it and then it becomes part of the act.”
He said he steers clear of controversy in his acts.
“Sports, religion, and politics are the three subjects that can very quickly divide an audience, so I avoid them. There are so many other things to talk about. I hope to make everyone’s day a little better by bringing them laughter and sharing stories that they can relate to,” Iglesias said.
The opening act for Iglesias is comedian Larry Omaha, with comedian Martin Moreno hosting the show.
In 2016, Iglesias marked his 20th year of working his craft as a stand-up comedian. In 2011, he became one of Comedy Central Networks’ highest rated series with his Gabriel Iglesias Presents Stand-Up Comedy Revolution.
Iglesias’ first two DVD specials Hot & Fluffy and I’m Not Fat…I’m Fluffy sold more than one-million copies. Several successful DVD specials followed. His voice is heard in numerous animated films such as Norm of the North, The Book of Life and Planes.
Iglesias has starred in feature films such as The Nut Job 1, with him reprising the role of Jimmy in the Nut Job 2 due out in 2017. Other features film credits include A Haunted House 2.
Iglesias’ extensive television credits includes guest appearances on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, The T0night Show with Conan O’Brien, and Jimmy Kimmel Live, to name a few.
Iglesias was born in Chula Vista, California, the youngest of six children. He was raised by a single mother and grew up in Section 8 public housing in Long Beach, California.
He said that during his childhood, he developed a strong sense of humor to deal with obstacles he faced.
“Seeing Eddie Murphy’s comedy special Raw was the first time I thought to myself as kid that being a comedian is something I wanted to do for a living. Other comedians also influenced my work, in particular Robin Williams and Paul Rodriguez. When I’m onstage, I feel at home,” Iglesias said.
Iglesias told how he acquired the “Fluffy” moniker.
“My mom nicknamed me “Fluffy.” She told me that I wasn’t fat, I was fluffy. I started talking about it in my stand up and people started calling me “Fluffy.” At first I didn’t like it. What grown man would want to be called “Fluffy”? Then as it caught on, I just had to embrace it and it became synonymous with my name. When you Google Fluffy, I come up first, beating out kittens and bunny rabbits,” Iglesias said.
Kimberly Blea, interim dean of students at Highlands, said it’s exciting to be bringing a comedian of Iglesias’ caliber and fame to the Highlands University campus.
“Tickets are available for our current Highlands students at no charge with a valid student ID,” Blea said. “This “Fluffy” performance is the first event of the recently approved campus life initiative fee to enhance the vibrancy of the campus experience for our students.”
Blea said the Iglesias performance is a great opportunity for the community to experience a world-class comedian. The age restriction for the show is 15 due to the comedy material.
Tickets will be released first for Highlands students Aug. 17 – 24 and are available through Donna Martínez at the university’s ticket box office, 901 University Ave., Studio 103, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Martínez’ phone number is 505-454-3238.
Tickets go on sale with Martínez for the university’s faculty and staff Aug. 25 and the general public Aug. 26. Call Martínez for reserved seating.
After Aug. 27 at 12 midnight, tickets are are available online at www.outhousetickets.com
Reserved seating on the floor level of the Wilson Complex ranges in prices from $50 – $125, while general seating ranges from $30 – $50.