Johnny Cochrane taks about his debut show, Appeal.
Tell us about your Fringe show
My show is a kind of deconstruction on what I think it takes to make a hit Edinburgh debut hour. Basically all the things you shouldn’t say or do in a debut show.
How does it feel to be playing the Fringe for the first time?
Well I have been to the fringe before so I know what to expect in that instance and am really looking forward to it. Obviously now I'm doing a debut hour it will be a different challenge but one that I'm really excited to take on. I've put a lot of work into my show so am eager for the audiences to get to see it.
Best live act seen at Fringe?
I saw Terry Alderton a few years back and he's without a doubt one of the best live comics I've ever seen. A really nice guy as well. Tom Stade was also hilarious. But I might have to give it to Spencer Jones who I got to watch last year and is just on another planet. I think he's brilliant.
Best thing about the Fringe?
I like the camaraderie between comedians at the Fringe. Everyone has got their projects that they're working on but its nice that you get to get together and socialise, as you might only see each other fleetingly whilst on the circuit.
Worst thing about the Fringe?
When it rains. Turning up to venues while sodden is not a nice feeling. Also it can be exhausting and by the end of the month even the diet of berrocca and red bull can struggle to pull you through.
If you were not a performer/comedian what would you be doing? Going on more holidays. Nah, I think I'd be a teacher possibly as I've worked with kids before and I enjoy it. I think I'd probably perform in one way another at this stage anyway even if I wasn't getting paid.
How do you combat pre-gig nerves?
I just tell myself that the gig is kind of already done, they're either gonna laugh or not so just to go out and do my best. I can't do any more than that.
Worst on stage experience?
Oh I've died a few times. It happens to everyone. At one gig people were just talking, texting on their blackberry's and one guy was making a choking sign at me like I choked. Ha, that was dreadful.
How do you recover from a hefty heckle?
I back myself these days to be quick enough off the mark to deal with hecklers. Having to go off the top of my head is actually a part of standup that I enjoy the most.
What do you love about Scotland?
It's quite a beautiful place. It might sound poncey but as I get older I appreciate the beauty of Edinburgh particularly, instead of just seeing it as another city to get boozed in.
What do you like about Edinburgh?
Again, how beautiful it is. Also I love the fact that it is set on different levels. It's like you're walking on one level, go down some stairs and you're going under the level you were before then you're walking up a mountain. I think that's cool.
What’s the most Scottish thing you’ve done?
I don't know really - my friends Emma and Craig live there (Shout out to you guys, and the baby Shae, and the dog Sol) - so they've taken me to some of the local spots.
Who’s your favourite Scottish comedian?
Kevin Bridges is just as good as it gets isn’t he. I think Frankie Boyle is a genius as well. I like his stand up but I think his political commentary, particularly his articles, are on another level right now.
Favourite joke?
What do you call a nun sitting on a clowns shoulders? .... Virgin on ridiculous
Favourite Scottish food/drink?
Probably scotch whiskey. I don't drink it that much but when I do I enjoy it. Haven't had a battered mars bar yet, because I haven't given up yet!
Johnny Cochrane: Appeal will be at the Plesance Courtyard Below for the month of August at 9.45pm for tickets go to www.edfringe.com
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