"The story is about my first visit to the Philippines in 20 years. So, if you're Filipino, expect to go 'oh, I know what that is', and if you're not, expect to learn something new! There's power in seeing your story onstage and I want to give that to the Filipino community and wave our flag proudly."
Having performed Boy Mestizo to sell-out crowds across Melbourne, Sydney, Auckland and even Bali, Roque wanted to bring this hit show back to Hamilton post-lockdown.
"We're all going through a tough time at the moment with the pandemic, and I think it's super important to still be able to have a laugh and a nice night out if you can.
"The cliché saying that 'laughter is the best medicine' exists for a reason – there's definitely truth in that."
Light-hearted and hilariously honest, this no-holds-barred takedown of the long-term effects of colonisation offers a deft touch to an often-tough conversation.
"The word 'mestizo' means mixed race," Roque explains. "In the Philippines, being mixed or lighter skinned is always what is considered more beautiful.
"Growing up, I never really questioned that. But now, as an adult, I've realised how messed up that actually is – and I reckon comedy is the best way to destroy that way of thinking."
A local favourite on the stand-up scene, Roque is a familiar face from Jono and Ben, Funny Girls and Only in Aotearoa. He's also a panellist for hit shows 7 Days and Have You Been Paying Attention? NZ.
He has opened for some of the biggest names in international comedy, including Nick Kroll, Ronny Chieng, Demetri Martin and Ron Funches.
• Boy Mestizo at The Meteor Theatre for one night only on Friday, October 30, 7.30pm. All tickets $25 + booking fees. Bookings: themeteor.co.nz
