Comic Kathleen Madigan brings her very own Irish-Catholic take on life today, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 17, to the State Theatre Center for the Arts, Easton.

Madigan didn't grow up with dreams of being one of the most popular comics in the United States. A self-described "quiet kid," she didn't become interested in comedy until she was in her 20s. While working at a bar, her friends encouraged her to try stand-up on a comedy night. The experience was a lot of fun for Madigan and she was hooked.

Fast forward to today and Madigan has two HBO comedy specials, three Comedy Central specials, two successful releases on Netflix, and is one of the most popular touring comics in America. Madigan has built her career around giving a humorous look at her Irish-Catholic family, events, politics and everyday life.

"I notice the absurd," Madigan says in a recent phone interview. "I like to take note of the absurd in the everyday. I might see something happen in my life and write an idea down for a bit, but I don't really write the material before I perform it. I work it out on stage."

Madigan was influenced by those she saw perform at the beginning of her own career, including Ron White and Lewis Black.

"I thought, 'How did they do that? How did they just perform for a whole hour?' Back then, to perform for five minutes was a big deal for me."

Madigan's favorite part of touring today is the chance to interact with her audience and to travel and see the country.

"I love to be on the road. I don't like to sit still for too long. In five years, I see myself doing the same thing I am now: touring. I don't have much of an interest in working in television and movies. I love performing in front of a live audience."

Getting to know each of the cities she performs in is something she enjoys. Madigan was thrilled to explore Easton on her last stop there in 2012.

"I bought a purple ceramic fox at Mercantile Home and named him Easton. I liked him so much I ordered one for my friend, Lewis Black. There are so many great shops in Easton."

Tickets: State Theatre Box Office, 453 Northampton St., Easton;.statetheatre.org, 1-800-999-STATE, 610-252-3132