- Mar 20
- 4 min read
Contributed by Emily Nevins
A common story across the Asian diaspora is to travel from home looking for more opportunity. That decision comes with its own struggles like learning a new language, and becoming familiar with a different and sometimes unfriendly culture. On top of that, an onset of loneliness emerges from missing home and feeling isolated in unfamiliar territory.
For Rachel, coming to America would lead her to grad school, corporate life, giving birth and then creating the Asian comedy content platform, CrazyLaugh.
Founder and Creator of CrazyLaugh, Rachel Shi, better known as Rachel47, is a multifaceted storyteller, stand-up comedian and producer.
Rachel discovered comedy as a lifeline during a difficult period of new parenthood. Watching Ali Wong’s specials after giving birth showed her that frank, shame-free humor about motherhood and pain could be a source of relief and connection. That early inspiration would lead Rachel to perform and create a showcase for Asian comedians.
Witnessing the rising anti-Asian hate during COVID gave Rachel a new experience of shock. The devastating subway assault on Michelle Go was especially alarming as it hit close to home.
Speaking on Michelle Go, Rachel added “That was a wake-up call to me. (At the time) she was only a few years older than me, she’s Asian, she’s in finance, and she takes the 7 train.” This was Rachel’s daily commute.
Recognizing herself in Michelle, Rachel was taken aback to hear the only things Michelle’s former colleagues could say was that she was “nice” and a “pleasure to work with”. This fueled Rachel to be more extroverted with her coworkers to give them a chance to get to know her better. Rachel added, “She was smart, she was kind, but she cannot just be smart and kind. She had her hobbies and her passions.”
Speaking on the impact this new perspective had on her, Rachel added “Being your authentic self can mean so much, and I really wanted to be myself.”
To her appreciative surprise, Rachel’s family also wanted her to be herself. Speaking about her father, Rachel mentions “My dad loves me very much. My dad actually sold all of his stocks to support my business.” Combined with the unwavering support of her mother, friends and loved ones, Rachel’s new chapter was affirmed with love.
In a tiny dumpling shop, Rachel and a few like-minded friends produced a comedy show there by promising the owner they’d guarantee drink sales if turnout was low.
The event sold out within seconds, forcing volunteers to improvise chairs and logistics, and more than 60 people packed the room. This was the official first night of CrazyLaugh. Seeing young audience members at CrazyLaugh shows, Rachel says “I feel like I am hugging my younger self.”
CrazyLaugh began as an organic, grassroots movement. Early on the group chose nonprofit status to keep shows affordable and community-first. Their guiding principles emphasize kindness and “to give before receiving,”. They intentionally create an open stage where topics like LGBTQ, feminism, and politics are explored. When comics misstep, the organizers prefer audience feedback and comedian reflection over censorship. Rachel has one rule for her fellow talent; “As long as you don’t say anything illegal, you can say whatever you want.”
CrazyLaugh rapidly expanded beyond NYC. Applying her project-management experience, Rachel launched CrazyLaugh chapters in DMV (District of Columbia, Maryland & Virginia) and LA. Keeping younger and immigrant audiences in mind, CrazyLaugh prioritizes accessibility and they commit to keeping tickets inexpensive.
Frustrated by the lack of Chinese-language longform comedy on major platforms, Rachel helped produce a multi-city North American TV-style recording of Chinese diaspora comedians. This was the beginning of “超 (Chow) Fun”.
Funding for 超 (Chow) Fun came through nonprofit donations and production for recording was rife with logistical hurdles. Nevertheless, the team found a fitting studio in Flushing, connected with experienced post-production editors, and completed a six-day shoot of 超 (Chow) Fun. Although the shoot was emotionally fraught, it was extremely validating. Rachel cried when the shoot ended, feeling both relief and conviction that the project mattered.
Another project that has sprouted from CrazyLaugh is “525 I Love Myself”. Rachel created a show where women comics can put themselves first. Speaking on 525’s purpose, Rachel adds “We want to give (women comics) equal opportunities so we can show them we are good or better than (male comics).” For one audience member, she wrote a standout review about 525 I Love Myself and how the show gave her an eye-opening experience.
When asked what advice she would give emerging Asian comedians, Rachel champions persistence, especially for women. For CrazyLaugh’s future, Rachel is focused on online expansion, launching a Mandarin comedy podcast to broaden reach, and continuing live shows and tours. Currently, CrazyLaugh’s headliner “Jing Wei and the Sea” is already traveling internationally.
Through CrazyLaugh, Rachel’s journey of self discovery has led to reframing representation. She wanted content by people who live the experience of exploring visas, navigating language barriers, and specific cultural truths. Beyond entertainment, CrazyLaugh gives younger generations a place where they belong, where laughter is affordable and happiness is received by all; And, if Rachel has it her way, she will be hosting.
You can find CrazyLaugh’s event schedule through their website as well as 525 I Love Myself and 超 (Chow) Fun
