I was class clown but knew when not to act up

Nadanja Bailey is well known in the entertainment sector in Bermuda. The 36-year-old has been performing standup comedy for well over a decade here and internationally. He has hosted many events over the years including the Miss Bermuda Pageant in June with Patrina ‘Power Girl’ O’Connor-Paynter. He also served as a judge for the Bermuda Youth Got Talent competition. 

Next month, he is hosting the finals of the first international comedy competition held in Bermuda at Ruth Seaton James.  Four comedians will return to Bermuda on September 28 where one will be crowned the Wreck Shop champion. Aside from comedy, Bailey is a father of two children – ten-year-old Sania and two-year-old Sanai. 

He is also an ambassador for Bermuda everyday as he drives tourists around the island. In October he is performing in a Gilbert Sullivan production of South Pacific. Interview by Mikaela Ian Pearman.

Your earliest memory?

Having a birthday party at Admiralty House.

What were you like in school? 

Class clown, but knew when not to act up. My mama knew how to show up at school. 

Who is your hero/heroine? 

My mama. 

Which human trait do you dislike the most? 

Racism.

Human trait you value most in others? 

Loyalty. There’s nothing like having a friend who has your back no matter what.

Which film character would you be? 

Eddie Murphy in coming to America when he played all those different roles.

Do you believe in fate? 

Yes, of course.

Your greatest fear?

Failing my kids.

Most embarrassing moment?

Fell in a pool at a party when I was 17. (No I wasn’t drunk).

Property aside, what’s the most expensive thing you’ve bought? 

Is my taxi considered property?

Your ultimate ambition? 

To star or feature in a movie.

Your most unappealing habit? 

Farting – I’m lactose bah.

Describe yourself in three words. 

Talented, courteous, loving.

Best party you’ve ever been to? 

My own, 16th birthday at my house. Cars were parked all along south shore.

Worst job you’ve ever done? 

There is no such thing. As long as you paying, I’m there.

Biggest disappointment?

Not staying on track in the States with my comedy.

Biggest regret?

Not always telling the truth.

Closest you’ve ever come to death?

Riding my orange V-50 overtaking and my jacket brushed the on coming bus.

Your desert island song?

You’re beautiful — James Blunt.

What animal would you be and why? 

A bird so I can poop on people’s cars as soon as they clean them like they do mine.

What do you do if you can’t sleep? 

Watch TV.

If you had a time machine, where would you go? 

I’d go back and get a degree in insurance since they’re making all the money.

Your most memorable dream? 

I can’t remember.

Most unpleasant exchange you’ve have had with a person? 

Never had one.

Best advice you have ever taken? 

Approach is everything, treat people with respect and I guarantee they will respect you back.

If you weren’t a taxi driver/comedian, what would you be? 

Mathematics teacher.

What do you most dislike about you appearance? 

I have a naturally miserable look people say.

What do you like best about your appearance?

My smile.

Does money make you happy? 

Not when I don’t have it.

Which cartoon character is most like you? 

They haven’t created it yet.

Nicest thing anyone has ever said to you? 

Thank you — there’s nothing worse than doing something for someone and they don’t use their manners.

Define romantic love.

Romantic love is dressing up and putting on your best outfits but staying home and order take out.

Tell us a joke. 

No, lol. If you’re smiling my job is done.

Most treasured possession? 

My kids. They love me even when I’m wrong. You can’t beat that feeling.

A dream location for a home? 

Italy.

What keeps you up at night? 

CSI.

Guilty pleasure? 

Reece’s Peanut Butter Cups.

Favourite movies:

The Hurricane, The Negotiator, The Notebook, No Strings Attached and all Eddie Murphy movies

TV show:

Curious George

Vacation Spots:

Las Vegas, Miami, Hawaii

Your proudest achievement? 

Winning a comedy competition in Florida.

What would you most like to be remembered for?

Putting a smile on people’s faces.

Most important lesson life has taught you? 

Trust, it’s one word but it’s the most important word in all situations.

Funniest movie you’ve ever seen? 

The Hangover series

Funniest Bermudian in the public eye? 

Johnny Barnes, he speaks to people everyday from his spot, but doesn’t speak to you on the street.

Best and worst gig you’ve ever done? 

Hosting the Bermuda Music Festival in Dockyard four years ago and doing a show in Atlanta where I forgot all my jokes.