Good evening folks, we are very pleased to bring you an exclusive new interview today as we chat with the Scottish Viral Comedy Sensation Joe McTernan who brings ‘Life Advice That Won’t Change Your Life‘ to the Edinburgh Fringe this August.
Which simple daily activities aside from buying coffee amuse you or spark inspiration?
I love sitting on a train and observing people. So many of my characters have been inspired from listening to conversations people have with each other. I also think doing household activities spark a lot of inspiration. I have a full set in my stand-up all about washing clothes which I don’t think will ever make me the next George Carlin, but I like doing it.
Your coffee shop reels have been hugely popular; what do you think is the secret of making everyday activities funny and engaging?
I’ve always found the trick is to recognize one element and then heighten it as much as you can. With the coffee reel I remember one day getting really frustrated at the amount of questions I was being asked and then thought ‘If I could make the questions even more ridiculous then this could be a sketch’. Writing what I think is funny has helped. Often the weird lines that I think only I would find funny are the ones the audience seem like the most.
Is there any other comedian you are a fan of, or would like to work with?
I adore Billy Connolly which I know may sound clichéd as a Scottish person. He inspired me so much, so I’d love the chance to work with him even if it was just to blame him for setting me off on this career path.
Jim Carey would be another one. I’ve watched his performances so much to try and steal some of his technique for my characters. He was such a big part of my childhood (I mean by watching his films, he wasn’t round for dinner every Sunday)
This year is your Edinburgh Fringe debut, but it’s home turf for you – how do you feel about it & what are you looking forward to most?
I love performing in Edinburgh for the whole month as it means I get to stay home and not wake up in random Travelodge‘s wondering where and who I am. Strangely, Edinburgh is such a tourist hot spot for the whole year that I never feel like the Fringe is any different to performing normally.
I’m really looking forward to performing at Underbelly. I remember when I was younger standing in the Underbelly courtyard and dreaming of being a part of it one day. I used to love seeing all the big posters around town so it’s going to be cool to see my show on them this year.
I can’t wait to meet some of my followers from online also as their support has changed my life, so it’ll be nice to thank them in person.
You can get your tickets to see Joe McTernan at the Edinburgh Fringe here and don’t forget to check out Joe’s official Instagram as well.
Karen Woodham is the founder and owner of the Blazing Minds. She is also a Cinema reviewer and works with RealD 3D reviewing the latest 3D releases and IMAX, she has also had several articles published in various publications including the first edition of SFW Magazine. In 2015 she became an Award Winning Blogger and also has her website listed as one of the UK’s Top 10 Film Blogs.
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