/ Modified sep 4, 2014 4:43 p.m.

Maria Bamford Hears Voices

Telling stories from life's darker places gives Bamford's comedy a poignant edge; performing standup at Tucson's Rialto Theatre on September 6th.

maria bamford special spotlight Maria Bamford performed a concert in her living room for her mom and dad in her "special special special".

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maria bamford pugs portrait Comedian, and pug lover, Maria Bamford

Maria Bamford's comedic stories defy categorization. It's hard to tell what she makes up, and what comes from her actual life experience. In the end, the difference between the two is largely unimportant, because Bamford's stage persona is an enlightened version of herself. She excels at sharing comedic gems mined from life's darker places.

maria bamford at npr west Maria Bamford wasn't adverse to swag during a visit to NPR West.

Bamford recently made a temporary withdrawal from public performance to focus on her mental health, seeking professional care for the symptoms of OCD, anxiety, and depression that she has dealt without throughout her adult life.

When asked about the temptation to read online comments about her performances or Google her own name, Bamford said "With the internet, there are enough people who are bored, who will watch things and comment on it. I try not to read them, because bad or good - it tends to stop me from making more stuff, which is what makes me feel good, so why? I want to enjoy living life. It's not a good idea, for me. But some people really enjoy the camaraderie, and the chit chatting back and forth, saying "You're an idiot!" and stuff like that. That's okay for them."

Maria Bamford will perform with fellow comedian Jackie Kashian at The Rialto Theatre on Saturday, Sept. 6 at 7 p.m.

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