Steve Bugeja talks crepes and a milestone
Tell us about your Fringe show
My show is the true story of the time I drove a convicted criminal three hours across the country on his first trip out of prison in 18 years. It’s quite the anecdote. In fact it lasts exactly an hour, perfect for the Edinburgh festival.
How does it feel to be playing the Fringe for the first time?
I am very excited, it feels like a milestone to do my first solo show. I’ve been to see so many over the past two years and have been itching to do one myself.
Best live act seen at Fringe?
There are so many to name just one as the best. I always look forward to seeing Joel Dommett’s shows. I think he is very good at putting together a proper narrative show. I remember seeing Kevin Bridges a few years ago in the Pleasance Grand, that’s probably the most I have laughed at a fringe gig. But others that stick in the memory include The Horne Section, Nick Helm and James Acaster.
Best thing about the Fringe?
The crepes. It’s the only time of the year I get to eat crepes.
Worst thing about the Fringe?
I eat too many crepes.
If you were not a performer/comedian what would you be doing?
I’d just be being someone who wanted to be a comedian, but hadn’t had the guts to do it.
What do your family think of your show?
None of them have seen it yet. My mum is very worried that me talking about a serious criminal on stage every night at the fringe might land me in trouble with gangs or something. I'll take the risk.
How do you combat pre-gig nerves?
I listen to music from the musical Hairspray.
Worst on stage experience?
I once lost my voice on stage, mid set. The crowd were not sympathetic.
How do you recover from a hefty heckle? Do you have a set of stock replies?
I often don’t recover and just cry after. Sometimes I cry instantly. Then I listen to the music from Hairspray again.
What do you love about Scotland?
The brutal honesty of the people.
What do you like about Edinburgh?
I like to go walking on the beach.
What’s the most Scottish thing you’ve done?
I used the word "tatty" the other day.
Who’s your favourite Scottish comedian?
I am good friends with Iain Stirling, so I guess I'm going to have to say him. But in truth it is Kevin Bridges.
Favourite joke?
One of the earliest jokes I ever heard. Are you ready? "What's a pilots favourite biscuit? ... a plane biscuit".
Steve Bugeja: Day Release is at Just the Tonic @ The Mash House, 8pm until 30th August. Pay what you want at the venue or pay £5 to guarantee entry; https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-bugeja-day-release
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