#EdFringe17 Comedy Q&A: Luke Kempner

Luke’s new show has stand up, sketches and at least thirty impressions. It's fun and fast and has some heart too! We asked Luke about Take A Long Hard Luke At Yourself.

My best review was from Dawn French when she tweeted saying I was a ‘blummin genius’. My worst was when my Mum said ‘I’m sure some people will like it’

Hi Luke, tell me about your Edinburgh show.

I believe it’s my most honest and ambitious show yet. The stand-up looks at how we as a society are constantly being different versions of ourselves and the sketches are full of me throwing celebrities out of the comfort zone! Cristopher Biggins reading the news, Dame Maggie Smith auditioning to be Bond and Frankie Boyle as the new grief councillor in Broadchurch. I’m really excited about taking this show to Edinburgh!

What does Edinburgh mean to you?

Edinburgh is the end of the school year where you show the rest of the class, your teachers and your parents what the hell you’ve been up to this school year. I hope I get to take home a certificate.

Who inspires you and why?

Lots of people inspire me in different ways. I love the greats as far as stand up in concerned. Louis CK, Katherine Ryan Trevor Noah to name but 3. I love watching character shows from the likes of Colin Hoult and Kieran Hodgson. I was brought up watching the Marx Brothers and Black Adder so all of those guys too.

Describe your best or worst experiences on stage.

Best experience was when I took my first show to Toronto and performed it in front of 850 people. My worst was when I was performing a gig to 7 people at a festival when Lionel Ritchie was on the main stage at the same time and then there was firework display. I also had a coughing fit halfway through. It was the worst hour of my career!

Describe your best or worst review.

My best review was from Dawn French when she tweeted saying I was a ‘blummin genius’. My worst was when my Mum said ‘I’m sure some people will like it’

If you weren’t a performer, what would you be?

Well I was in musical theatre for 4 years before I got in to comedy so I would probably still be doing that but I suppose that is still performing. I feel I’m quite good at relationship advice hahaha! So maybe a marriage councillor.

What was the last book you read?

Kevin Bridges: We Need to Talk about Kevin, I’m currently reading Steve Martin’s book. It’s amazing

What’s your favourite publication?

Broadway Baby.

Imagine that the BBC have asked you to produce a primetime show. What would it be and who else would be involved?

It would be me in a show that is a cross between the Generation Game, Have I got News For You and The Fast Show. So hopefully you’ll see Have I Got A Fast Generation For You soon!

Twitter: @LukeKempner

Website: http://lukekempner.com/

© 2017 On the Mic.

Related Listings

Luke Kempner: Take a Long Hard Luke at Yourself

Luke Kempner: Take a Long Hard Luke at Yourself

Luke Kempner takes a Luke in the mirror in this gently funny show, poking fun at himself and the impressions he uses to express himself. He is a comedian and impressionist and uses these skills to investigate who he really is... 

Since you’re here…

… we have a small favour to ask. We don't want your money to support a hack's bar bill at Abattoir, but if you have a pound or two spare, we really encourage you to support a good cause. If this article has either helped you discover a gem or avoid a turkey, consider doing some good that will really make a difference.

You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
Donate to Mama Biashara now

Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Donate to Theatre MAD now

Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
Donate to Acting For Others now