Mike Orton-Toliver talks about his new show, Jacuzzi.

Tell us about your Fringe show

We’re doing “Jacuzzi” – it’s the FA’s signature show, performed weekly down at our London space. We get comedians to tell truthful, sometimes overly-personal stories and then we improvise scenes based of those stories. Simple. Fun. Hilarious.

Best thing about the Fringe?

The energy. I know that’s such an easy answer, but it’s true. The vibe of the whole festival is electric. It cannot be denied. Unless it rains, then it’s not worth it and we all go inside.

Oh, and the late night food trucks! After a day of flyering, shows, and weather, I had the most delicious hamburger, served by a lovely guy named Roger.

Worst thing about the Fringe?

The late night food trucks. Five pounds for chips?! What the hell is wrong with you Roger?!

How many years have you been coming to the Fringe?

I’m still new. Came up about three years ago. Plan to be coming for the rest of eternity. Gulp.

Favourite Fringe venue?

Pleasance Courtyard. It’s the best combo of beautiful Edinburgh architecture and bustling festival fever. I spend about 70 per cent of my fringe there. Specifically, the Upstairs venue. Hear there’s a great improv show there at 11 o’clock.

Best Fringe memory?

I once head-butted someone in a show – that was pretty cool… For me.

Best heckle?

It’s tough to heckle improv. We roll with the punches. One guy wouldn’t give us good suggestions, though, so I head butted him.

Craziest on stage experience?

One of the FA players fainted during a show. I think that’s pretty cool.

What’s on your rider?

You get riders at the Fringe?

How do you wind down after a show?

Can’t. Not enough time. You’re usually on your way to do another show. And, if not that then you’re off to bed so you can wake up and do another show.  Also, drugs.

What do you love about Scotland?

Loads. What’s not to love about Scotland? Wait. Is Scotland going through a low-confidence right now?  

Hey! Scotland! You’re cool Scotland. Seriously. Super cool. Everyone loves you. Snap out of it.

What do you like about Edinburgh?

The people. Every time I get into a taxi, buy a coffee at a café or sit down at a restaurant, I know I’m going to have a nice chat with a lovely Edinburgher - Usually about how much they don’t like the Fringe.

What’s the most Scottish thing you’ve done?


I’ve spent a lot of time in Edinburgh and never walked up Arthur’s Seat. People tell me that’s a real Scottish thing to do.

What kind of jokes do a Scottish crowd seem to respond to?

You could make fun of the English – that might go well. But I think Scottish audience are just like any other: Smart, intelligent, beautiful and totally free at 11pm from now until August 21st. (Pleasance Upstairs!)

Favourite joke?

Your face.

Favourite Scottish food/drink? 

Pizza. No wait. I’m joking. Haggis on pizza. 

The Free Association, Jacuzzi, is on at the Pleasance Courtyard until August 21.