John Pendal talks about his new show, International man of leather.
- Tell us about your Fringe show
It’s a stand-up comedy show about how I escaped my conservative Baptist upbringing to become the only British winner of the annual “International Mr Leather” contest in Chicago, and some of the crazy things I did on my travels as a result. I’m still amazed it all happened, but I promise you every word of the show is true.
- How does it feel to be playing the Fringe for the first time?
I’ve been at the Fringe before so I know it’s like running a marathon. My plan is to buy lots of bags of spinach and put a handful into everything I eat. Hey, if it worked for Popeye I’m willing to give it a go.
- Best live act seen at Fringe?
In 2014 I went to see Jen Brister’s show “Wishful Thinking” three times. Everything she said about getting older struck home. I still watch clips of that show on YouTube if I’m having a rough day.
- Best thing about the Fringe?
It’s mental. The whole city gives itself up for a month every year to celebrate the arts. I’m so grateful you do it – and feel so badly for anyone who lives there trying to lead a normal life.
- Worst thing about the Fringe?
Drama students who stage mock deaths in the Royal Mile. I want to kill them for real.
- If you were not a comedian what would you be doing?
I’m very altruistic so it would have to be something where I could make other people happy … maybe offering sports massage to a world cup rugby squad.
- How do you combat pre-gig nerves?
I polish the toecaps of boots. Once I heard an old lady say “he has very shiny shoes” – and ever since then I’ve thought whether or not you like my jokes, you can always get something out of the show if my boots are shiny.
8. Worst on stage experience?
When the audience were so quiet I could hear two old ladies discussing my shoes.
9 How do you recover from a hefty heckle? Do you have a set of stock replies?
Genuinely negative heckles are rare. Usually if someone joins in it’s because they’re enjoying the show and trying to add to it, or they’ve just had a bit too much to drink. The best way is to weave them into the show for a moment. If you’re able to keep things playful then everyone can have a good time.
10 What do you love about Scotland?
The Stand Comedy Clubs in Glasgow and Edinburgh have the best comedy audiences in the UK. Intelligent enough to get the jokes and drunk enough to find them funny.
11 What do you like about Edinburgh?
Oink Hog Roasts. I always plan to make one last throughout the day, but end up inhaling the whole thing for breakfast and then living off a pork high until tea time.
12 What’s the most Scottish thing you’ve done?
I have worn a kilt, but I’m not sure I have the bum for it. I envy guys who can wear them well. Mine seemed to hang like it was depressed to be on an English person.
13 Who’s your favourite Scottish comedian?
Joe Heenan is very funny.
14 Favourite joke?
Jokes are like children, you shouldn’t go public about your favourite or it’ll screw up all the others.
15 Favourite Scottish food/drink?
RUMBLEDETHUMPS! Love the name, and you can’t go wrong with any cake made out of potato and onion. God bless you.
John Pendal: International man of leather is on at the Stand Comedy Club until August 28.
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