Baruch Porras-Hernandez: Spreading Laughter & Uplifting Community

A living, breathing cyclone of creativity and sharp wit resides in San Francisco. He draws artists to him, and then uplifts them in community. His name is Baruch Porras-Hernandez. If you haven’t been to see one of his curated shows, you most definitely should. Baruch is a writer, performer, organizer, MC/Host, curator, and stand up comedian. Like so many artists, he wears a lot of hats but it’s rare to find someone who wears them all so well.

Baruch Porras-Hernandez finds some fascinating reads at Fabulosa Books in the Castro. Photo by Vita Hewitt

I first met Baruch when I documented his show ¿Donde Esta Mi Gente? At KQED’s Lit Crawl in the Mission. A quirky and engaging cabaret of artists greeted me. SNJV radiantly danced across the stage, Dizzy Jenkins is now on my Spotify and Baruch himself had the entire audience in stitches. Luckily for all of us, we will have a chance to hear Baruch sing about the smell of ham again (if you see the show, you will know what this means). So good! On January 20^th ¿Donde Esta Mi Comedy? Will be at the Brava Cabaret at 7PM. It will be a part of SF Sketchfest.

Geting to Know Comedian Baruch Porras-Hernandez

Artist Mediums: I am a writer, performer, standup comedian, actor, illustrator and host.

What is your background in art?

My mom taught me how to draw when I was a toddler. I had my first art show when I was 14 at Au Coquelet Café in Berkeley. I graduated from the acting program at Sonoma State University and then worked as an actor for years. I am the illustrator and creator of Tiny Baruch, an online comic about the small blessings in life, dicks, and donuts. I am a regular host for literary shows at KQED, and have worked as a writer and performer throughout the country. I have two poetry chapbooks with Sibling Rivalry Press, “I Miss You Delicate” and “Lovers of the Deep Fried Circle,” and I’m the organizer and host for ¿Donde Esta Mi Comedy?

What was your first job in the Bay Area?

My first job was as a bus boy in the now-gone Royal Café in Albany, California,  My first job in San Francisco was a tour guide.

How long have you been acting/writing poetry?

Since I was in high school. Professionally? Since my 20s?

You seem to be really good at spotting talented artists and bringing them together for a true art experience. What is your process?

I ask myself, “What am I most excited about right now? Who am I dying to see?” Then I put those folks together. I like to trust my gut. I love a mix of music, poetry, and comedy. I like booking artists in my shows that do something more than just the box that the world wants to put them in.  

What conceptual themes do you focus on in your art practice?

In my art practice I want to focus on giving the viewer a good experience. But most importantly I need to enjoy the making of the art. Whether it’s a poem or a joke. Creating it may not be fun. Writing can be an agonizing experience, but performing makes me happy, and that matters to me. The themes of my work have ranged from immigration, Mexican identity, queerness, and the absurdity of existence. The thrill of being a sexual deviant, and finding joy in new things after the things you love all disappoint you. But porn and food never will! 

Are there any SF artists you think are great right now?

Vin Seaman, SNJV, Wonder Dave (go see a SafeWords show!), Kristee Ono (check out her podcast Into the Fold) and for visual art, Oscar Zamora Graves

What shows do you have coming up?

YES, I am once again going to be a part of SF Sketchfest! I got two shows! I need you all to get tickets for ¿Donde Esta Mi Comedy? on Jan 20^th, 7PM at Brava Cabaret! I’m performing and hosting and the show features Bel Benitez, Graciella Hamilton, Mala Muñoz and Alejandro Ochoa! I created ¿Donde Esta Mi Comedy? because I love being a part of the Latin American community and I love performing with them!

I was born in Toluca, Mexico. I immigrated here to steal everyone’s jobs, make out with sexy men, and eat all the donuts I want! When I started comedy I would only do a show with another Latino person once in a while. I wanted to create a show focused on Latino/a/e/x experience. This lineup is incredible. Each comic has a unique style and story, and I LOVE being a part of SFSketchfest. It’s my favorite time of the year to be at Brava Cabaret, where I’ve done several solo shows and performed comedy with the ground breaking Marga Gomez. It’s just a cherry on a sexy cake for me to get to do this show. I hope you all come! Oh, and I’m opening and hosting for Solomon Giorgio, and Sydnee Washington at Cobbs! Jan 19.^th Get your tickets now!

Where Can You Find Baruch Porras-Hernandez?

Website: baruchporrashernandez.com
IG: @baruchporrashernandez
Go see Baruch: at the Brava Cabaret on January, 20th or at Cobbs on January, 19th