James Wilson-Taylor, AKA Bat-Fan, discusses the ultimate Batman movie, acapella choirs and his secret superpower.
Tell us about your Fringe show
The show is called ‘Bat Fan’. I create the ultimate batman movie, starring me, stealing all the best bits from the comics, films and TV series. I've built my own props, my mum made my costume and I have a superpower that even Ben Affleck doesn't have - a masters degree in musical theatre.
How does it feel to be playing the Fringe for the first time?
I’m originally from Edinburgh and attend the Fringe every year so to be doing my first solo show at the Pleasance is incredibly exciting. I’m really looking forward to playing for my home crowd.
Best live act you've seen at Fringe?
Too tough to call but a few that spring to mind are Bo Burnham, Hannibal Buress, Joseph Morpugo and the always reliable Showstoppers.
Best thing about the Fringe?
The city itself. So many great shows and venues all within walking distance of each other so you can catch something on George Street, walk past the castle, stop in at Oink for a pig roll, down a pint at Brew Dog and still get to the Pleasance courtyard with time to spare.
Worst thing about the Fringe?
The Acapella choirs. So. Many. Acapella choirs. If I hear one more group of middle class white men doing a semi-ironic cover version of an 80s pop song I will cut my own ears off.
If you were not a performer/comedian what would you be doing?
Drinking away my sadness in some dive bar, telling batman jokes to uninterested strangers.
What do your family think of your show?
They haven’t seen it yet but they live in Edinburgh so will be making it along towards the end of the run. Hopefully they’ll not heckle too much.
How do you combat pre-gig nerves?
Lots of Irn Bru and ‘Eye of the tiger’ on the ipod tend to distract me enough to forget about them.
Worst on stage experience?
I had a reviewer from a small sci-fi website that shall remain nameless sit in the front row, arms folded, staring me down for the whole gig. Very off putting. Doubt they’ll be back.
How do you recover from a hefty heckle? Do you have a set of stock replies?
I think I’ll attempt some Batman themed comebacks: “Shout that again and I’ll make this pencil disappear! You know, like the Joker in the Dark Knight….”. Something like that anyway.
What do you love about Scotland?
It’s my home. Always feels great to go back.
What do you like about Edinburgh?
It’s definitely the perfect size of city. It has 90% of what London has but it’s prettier and easy to get around. Also, Murrayfield on match day is a pretty unbeatable experience.
What’s the most Scottish thing you’ve done?
Even though I live in London now, the slightest hint of sunshine is always an excuse for ‘tapps aff!’
Who’s your favourite Scottish comedian?
Iain Stirling’s show last year was excellent, will definitely be along again this year.
Favourite joke?
What do you call a pig that listens to Marilyn Manson? A Goth-ham! I’m here all month!
Bat-Fan will run at Pleasance Courtyard from August 5-16 and 18-30.
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