Discover how Kiree Robinson blends comedy and storytelling to connect with audiences and highlight the Rochester's creative scene.
Comedian Kiree Robinson has carved out a space for herself in Rochester’s vibrant arts community, blending her marketing background with her passion for stand-up. Raised in the city, Kiree’s journey is rooted in storytelling—whether on stage or through her work. In this interview, Kiree shares how her experiences growing up in Rochester shaped her path, her love for the city’s creative scene and how comedy allows her to connect with audiences in meaningful ways. From local open mics to a vision for Rochester’s future as an arts hub, Kiree’s story is one of talent, community and laughter.
Q: Tell us about who you are and what you do. A: My name is Kiree Robinson, and I’m a stand-up comedian in Rochester, NY. I grew up on the west side, in the inner city, and I’ve never left. I went to Wilson Magnet High School, where my teachers saw me as a gifted and talented student, not just a poor Black kid from the inner city. They encouraged me to go to the University of Rochester, and later, I transferred to St. John Fisher to get my communications degree. Fisher is where I really homed in on my passion for writing and communications, which set the course for my career in marketing.
As a comedian, I stumbled into an open mic by accident, and other comedians encouraged me to give it a shot. Six years later, I’ve performed at almost every venue in Rochester and in many cities on the east coast. The comedy community here has been so supportive, constantly providing opportunities for me.
Q: What are your passions? A: Storytelling is my passion. People might think marketing and stand-up comedy are opposing fields, but to me, they’re two sides of the same coin. In both, I get to tell stories—whether it’s an ad for a client or a personal story on stage. Everyone and everything has an interesting story; it’s just about taking the time to find it or listen to it.
Q: What does your comedy offer to the community? A: “Laughter is the best medicine” might be a cliché, but it’s true. When things are tough, sitting down with a room full of strangers and laughing together can be really therapeutic. I get anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes with these people, and not only do we laugh, but I get to be the one making them laugh. Sometimes, the topics I cover in my stand-up can be tough or uncomfortable, but it’s powerful for people to hear their stories reflected in a humorous way. I’ve also created spaces, like my open mic at Boulder Coffee, where people can laugh and feel safe. That means a lot to me.
Q: What do you love about Greater Rochester? A: I love how many opportunities there are to create art here. I’ve had so many chances to connect and collaborate with talented people—visual artists, filmmakers, dancers, photographers, comedians—you name it. There’s so much talent in Rochester. Per capita, I bet we rival cities like New York, Chicago and San Francisco. It’s a great place for creatives, and I’m excited to see more people discovering that.
Q: What makes Rochester unique compared to other cities? A: Rochester feels like a small town with a big-city attitude. We have a lot of the coolness and culture you’d expect in a larger city—museums, performance venues, great restaurants—but we also have a tight-knit, supportive community where you can get to know people. I’d encourage people to look beyond Downtown for that culture, too. Rochester is beautiful if you approach it with an open mind.
Q: Can you share a memorable experience you’ve had in Greater Rochester?A: Going to the University of Rochester really helped me develop a love for this city. I was a native meeting people from all over the world and seeing Rochester through their fresh eyes. It made me appreciate how special it is here. I remember sitting on top of Pinnacle Hill one night during my freshman year, just taking in the view, and thinking, “Wow, my city is beautiful.”
"I think Rochester is going to be known as an arts hub in the coming years. More people from places like New York and Toronto will be coming here to check out our thriving arts scene."
Q: What do you think everyone should know about Greater Rochester?A: There is so much phenomenal local talent here. If you’re ever bored, check out an art show, theater performance, music or comedy event. You’ll be surprised at the talent we have, and you might find a new favorite artist. I think Rochester is going to be known as an arts hub in the coming years. More people from places like New York and Toronto will be coming here to check out our thriving arts scene.
Q: What are some of your favorite things to do around the region? A: I love watching indie films or throwbacks at the Little Theatre, grabbing brunch at Locals Only, having dinner at Rocky’s or Redd, getting a drink at Lux, and having coffee and a breakfast sandwich at Boulder Coffee.
Q: How has the Greater Rochester community supported you? A: The local comedy community has been so supportive. Comedy at the Carlson, specifically Vinnie Paulino, Mark Ippolito and Todd Youngman, has given me opportunities to perform for larger audiences. Dario Joseph has booked me more than anyone else. I could name so many comedians—Cindy Arena, Rachel Daze, Caleb J. Goldberg and others—who have supported me and inspired me to keep going, even when life isn’t funny. The sense of community and history here gives me pride. This city lifts you up when you’re down and recognizes talent. When I look at my community, I’m proud of where I come from.
Q: How does the region inspire you? A: Rochester’s rich and colorful history is always inspiring. I want to work in film and television one day, and knowing I’m walking the same streets that George Eastman did, or visiting the home of Frederick Douglass, is incredible. This city’s history has led directly to my freedom and ability to do what I love.
Q: What’s one word you’d use to describe Greater Rochester? A: Shine. The talent here shines from miles away!
Q: Anything else you’d like to share? A: Go to a comedy open mic and try it out! We’re so welcoming to newcomers. I host a mic at Boulder Coffee every Monday at 7 p.m.