Look out world. Phil Ellis is joining Taskmaster. Fringe audiences already love his loopy humour – now the TV audience will also meet the lanky Boltonian and get to know and love his irrepressible brand of fun.
Phil is also bringing back Funz and Gamez – the outrageous kids show performed by a cast of misbehaving Fringe comics. We can’t wait!
Tell us about your show. Why should we go and see it?
Because of my dress sense? (Massive laugh. Applause break… here we go) I’d like to think I’ve proved myself enough over the last 12 Edinburgh shows I’ve done. Everyone has been fun and exciting and different (we don’t talk about 2017 or 2022). But I can promise you’ll start your day just having a laugh and I won’t berate you or have a go at you as an audience member to gather online clips. You’ll be part of a fun experience.
That goes for both shows. I’m bringing back my best show to date ‘Funz And Gamez’, a kids show that’s just as much fun for adultz. You’ll start your day having a great time and then the bar is set so high, you’ll end your day feeling depressed and cheated. Much like I did when I lost the Edinburgh award in 2023!
What is your favourite thing about your show?
Just being allowed to have fun every day and make a room full of people laugh. Also when I recognise people in the audience, that really hits me. They actually choose to look at me. So wonderful!
Do you have a Fringe idol?
Oh too many. I mean, Pierre Novellie’s show was so good I almost cried. Haha. I don’t see many shows but I was sat next to Sam Campbell and I have never seen such incredible stand up. Same with people like Tom Ward, Carl Donnelly, Sarah Keyworth. Just too many to push and I don’t think many of them are up this year. Gavin Webster, Simon Munnery, Suzie McCabe, Elf Lyons. Actually, the more I think about it, the more I’d like to recommend everyone. Mark Nelson! Frankie Monroe, made me remember why I started comedy. So much to enjoy this year. Molly McGuinness will be awesome. Amy Gledhill and Chris Cantrill! I need to stop on this question now cos it’s getting to the point I name every comedian.
What three words best describe your performance style – and why?
Lanky (cos I am)
Unpredictable (cos I may start climbing stuff)
Funny (cos I really like being funny)
Who are you looking forward to seeing in Edinburgh?
Frankie Monroe,
Molly McGuinness,
Gavin Webster,
Huge Davies and Katie Pritchard (both in the new Funz)
Too many to discuss
What do you hope to achieve in Edinburgh – what are your hopes and dreams?
I think I’ve kind of done it. 2014 with the first Funz and Gamez and the 2013 ‘unplanned orphan’ debut were unbelievable experiences. I didn’t think I’d have those feelings again but the 2023 nominated show brought those feelings back. I think it’s so important to just never give up. It’s easy to become disheartened with such a tough industry but when you give up, you do yourself a disservice. You have to just go, “ok, well I will show them I can do this!”. I’m not saying it’s an easy thing to do but if you take that route, it’s so much more satisfying. I think I was at a point of going either way and I decided to just knuckle down and I did ‘Phil Ellis’s Excellent comedy show’. And that (for me) gave me the boost I needed.
What are the biggest obstacles you face as a performer at the Fringe?
Mostly costs. Facing the task of being able to make it work financially.
What do you hope the audience will take away after an hour in your company?
I hope it’s just a sense of well-being and happiness. I want them to leave full of joy…. And maybe a little confusion.
How do you plan to relax and recharge when not on stage?
I won’t lie, I don’t watch a lot of shows but I love seeing friends, hanging out. I’ll often head home for a few hours to watch some online videos about horror films or listen to a podcast and then head back out. That’s it for me. I always see my friends and shows I’m excited about though.
What is your idea of a perfect Fringe day?
Do show.
Sold out.
Crowd loved it.
Full bucket.
Had fun with pals.
Slept well.
Phil Ellis Funz and Gamez Rebootz, 12.45 Monkey Barrel Comedy, July 30 – August 10
https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/funz-and-gamez-rebootz
Phil Ellis: Soppy Stern, 12.45, Monkey Barrel Comedy August 11 – 24
https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/phil-ellis-soppy-stern
