Andrew Phung’s Guide to Calgary’s Hidden Charms
Actor Andrew Phung shares his personal connection to Calgary and its vibrant local culture.
1Calgary's Unique Urban Vibe
Andrew Phung describes his hometown of Calgary as a large city that retains a small-town, friendly atmosphere. Unlike major tourist hubs like Banff, Calgary offers a modern urban experience with abundant sunshine, even during winter months. Phung emphasizes that the city provides all necessary amenities while remaining remarkably accessible and welcoming.
2Growing Up in Northeast Calgary
Phung spent his formative years in the diverse neighborhoods of Whitehorn, Temple, Falconridge, and Coral Springs. He recalls a childhood defined by community, where immigrant families and dreamers lived side-by-side. The streets were filled with children playing sports, creating a sense of connection that felt like a real-life version of Pleasantville.
3Immigration Stories and Community
Phung’s parents arrived in Canada separately during the 1970s and 1980s. His father was sponsored by a church in Saskatchewan before moving to Calgary, where the tight-knit Asian community provided essential support. They eventually met at a card game in Airdrie, building their life together as part of the Canadian dream.
4Early Artistic Aspirations
Despite his outgoing personality, Phung initially pursued an economics degree, believing a career in oil and gas or law was his only path. He rarely saw Asian representation in media, citing only Jackie Chan or minor characters in Degrassi. This lack of visibility made a career in the arts seem like an impossible dream.
5The Loose Moose Influence
Phung’s comedic journey began at the Loose Moose Theatre Company, which provided free training to local youth. He credits the theater for teaching him everything about performance and creativity. The company has a storied history, having also launched the careers of Kids in the Hall members Bruce McCullough and Mark McKinney.
6Learning Through Failure
A pivotal moment occurred when Phung performed poorly at age 17. Artistic director Dennis Cahill bluntly acknowledged the rough show but encouraged him to return the following week. This lesson in resilience—the willingness to fail and try again—became the foundation of Phung’s professional philosophy and his approach to creative work.
7Comedy for the Love
Phung argues that Calgary is an underrated comedy hub because artists there perform for the love of the craft rather than fame. Since the city is not a major media center like Toronto or Los Angeles, performers balance side jobs with their passion, fostering a unique, authentic, and highly supportive creative environment.
8Creating Run the Burbs
After his success on Kim’s Convenience, Phung co-created Run the Burbs to showcase the experiences of second-generation immigrants. He wanted to depict families of color thriving in suburban settings, emphasizing emotionally intelligent parenting and honest communication. The show reflects the diverse, modern reality of families he observed growing up in Calgary.
9Showcasing Modern Calgary
Phung intentionally set his show in Calgary to move beyond the typical Western-themed depictions of Alberta. He aimed to highlight the city as a modern, vibrant place rather than just a landscape for period films. By focusing on the suburbs, he captured the authentic, everyday life of contemporary Canadian families.
10The Miracle of Production
Producing a television series is described by Phung as a miracle requiring hundreds of thousands of hours of collective effort. He faced significant challenges, including network notes, budget constraints, and unpredictable weather. Despite the immense stress and physical toll, he found the creative process deeply fulfilling and remains proud of the work.
11Recommended Calgary Spots
For visitors, Phung highlights 17th Avenue as a premier walkable destination. He recommends Class Clown for high-quality hamburgers and From Another for vintage shopping. He also suggests exploring the Kensington area, noting that these neighborhoods offer a fun, vibrant look at the city’s local culture beyond the standard tourist attractions.
12A Lasting Legacy
Phung’s advocacy for Calgary highlights the city’s evolution into a modern cultural hub. By blending his personal history with professional success, he challenges stereotypes about Alberta. His story serves as a testament to the power of community support and the importance of finding one’s own voice in the creative arts.
Original article: Atlas Obscura — Andrew Phung’s Guide to Calgary’s Hidden Charms