With the title of the show called Active Bitch Face, it’s easy to gather that Yuki Nivez’s comedy adopts a no-holds-barred approach.
Like many other comedians, Yuki embraces the opportunity to use her hilariously entertaining material as a way to address specific societal issues. Her latest show follows an underlying theme consistent in her work: Destroying the myth of the “quiet Japanese woman”. Entering the comedy scene in 2019, she wanted to be the representation and the kind of comedian she wished she had seen growing up as a Japanese woman. She made it her mission to challenge stigmas and misconceptions about women and race. Three years later, she launched her comedy show, Not Your Diversity Hire – which as the name suggests, delved into tokenism, allyship, identity and reclaiming your identity as a woman of colour.
Now, in 2025, she brings her comedy to Aussie shores. While each country often has a unique sense of humour, she’s confident of how the universal themes explored in her set will resonate with Sydneysiders. Penning some thoughts here for Missing Perspectives, Yuki opens up about performing in Australia, challenging the norm and why “comedy is the place where I refuse to compromise”.
In 2022, I launched Not Your Diversity Hire in Tokyo with a clear mission: Comedy without misogyny. Inclusion without tokenism. What started as a one-off idea quickly grew into one of Japan’s most popular sold-out shows, and in the process it reshaped the stand-up scene in Tokyo.
This year, I took a very different stage and became Japan’s champion of the Roast Battle World League. Roast battles can be brutal, often leaning on shock value. But I’ve made it my priority to find my own balance respecting the craft of my fellow battlers while staying true to my voice. In my very first battle, I defeated a former champion. Soon after, I won against the reigning champ. That made me the first Japanese champion in Tokyo’s English comedy scene, and the current Japan champion of the league.
People often assume my blunt, deadpan style is a stage persona. The truth is, on stage I’m the most authentic version of myself. Off stage, I’ve learned to soften, mask, and smile to fit into a society that doesn’t always accept women who are too direct. Comedy is the place where I refuse to compromise.
Coming back to Sydney is personal for me. I spent two gap years here during university, backpacking and working across Australia. That time gave me a love for this country’s diversity and boldness. Now, I return not as a traveller but as a comedian excited to connect with Sydney’s rich cultural mix.
With razor-sharp roasts, feminist wit, and a show that has already shaken up Tokyo, I can’t wait to bring Active Bitch Face to Sydney audiences.
You can catch me at the Newtown Hotel on September 3, 5, and 7.
Top photo – Pictured: Yuki Nivez, Source: Supplied/Alex T Thomas