Tell us about your show. Why should we go and see it?
I once made a woman laugh so hard she went into labour in my audience.
As a professional comedian, I’m trying to change the way people think of ‘children’s shows’. Kids are super smart; they don’t want or need to be talked down to. And parents are weary of being bored. So, I don’t condescend, and I make everyone in the theatre laugh hard. My comedy comes out of the character, in real time reactions to whatever is going on in that moment. It’s fresh, honest, and original.
Are you flying solo or are you part of a team?
I have a great support team! A great friend is coming as my stage tech. I also have my manager, Simon Shaw, and the wonderful folks at Something For The Weekend (Producers of Showstopper!)
I must also mention my fans in the US. Coming to the fringe is a costly endeavor. I have received incredible support from my fan base. They believe that what I offer makes the world a better place. Without their help, this simply wouldn’t be happening.
What are your hopes and dreams for the Fringe?
I’d love to build a UK tour. And to somehow convince Phoebe Waller-Bridge to see my show, lol.
What makes you laugh?
Chickens. Seriously, watch one for a bit, they’re ridiculous.
Almost anything, really. Laughing is my favorite thing! I especially love comedy that has an intelligent twist in an unexpected direction.
What is it that made you a performer?
Dubious advice from a childhood teddie.
How will your audience think/feel differently after an hour in your company?
Families will feel more connected, having just shared an exciting, joyful event. Laughing together creates a unique bonding experience. People write me years later saying they still talk and laugh about the show as a family.
Individually, a spark will be ignited. They will realize, or remember, that science is not something to be afraid of, it is meant to be embraced. And that they are capable of embracing it.
Whose show – apart from your own – are you looking forward to seeing at the Edinburgh Fringe?
Nicholls and Brown, I love comedy duos.
“A Non-Emergency” by Baloney Theatre Company
Juvenilia, “Handbook of Civilian Defense”
“She/Her” Featuring Nicole Ansari, produced by Brian Cox
“Starship Improvise”
What’s the most useful piece of advice you’ve been given?
Make friends wherever you go. There are a million other people who could do the job just as well, so be the one they want to have around.
Do you have a favourite Fringe memory?
First visit! Ask me again in September.
Who is your showbiz/Fringe idol and why?
Wow, difficult one. Right now, it’s Phoebe Waller-Bridge. She has presented intelligent, poignant work, and maintained an active involvement in the community and the Fringe, itself. But I also have to mention the people who aren’t household names. Who come back year after year, performing for the sake of their art and their souls. These are the ones who keep the Fringe both vibrant and alive.
