Garry Starr: Classic Penguins carried off the Melbourne Comedy Award as well as being awarded Best Comedy in Adelaide this year. The show, which involves audience interaction, lots of Penguin Classics and no trousers, has earned performer Damien Warren Smith the accolade of being “one of the great clowns of his generation.”
After performing at the Edinburgh Fringe Garry Starr is off to Sydney, Australia, to appear at The Grand Electric.
Tell us about your show. Why should we go and see it?
Because it’s incredibly silly. I attempt to perform all of the Penguin Classics in an hour and save literature from complete extinction.
What is your favourite thing about your show?
It is difficult to have a favourite moment because it depends so much on the audience
Do you have a Fringe idol?
I wouldn’t miss anything by Nathalie Palamides. I try to see everything by Trygve Wakenshaw and I love Mr Chonkers.
What three words best describe your performance style – and why?
Outrageous, ridiculous and audacious.
What do you hope to achieve in Edinburgh – what are your hopes and dreams?
I just want to play a show to as many people as I can. My goal is to enjoy the festival.
What are the biggest obstacles you face as a performer at the Fringe?
I think it’s affordability. It is hard to do the festival because there is a huge amount of risk.
What do you hope the audience will take away after an hour in your company?
The thing most people say to me is that their faces hurt from laughing – and I say I’m sorry.
How do you plan to relax and recharge when not on stage?
I treat myself to a regular massage – which I used to see as an indulgence but I because my show is so physical I now realise is a necessity.
What is your idea of a perfect Fringe day?
Wake up, go for a long walk, coffee with a friend, read a book, do my show.
