#EdFringe17 Comedy Q&A: Patrick Turpin

It says here that, Patrick Turpin - Itty Bitty Little Titty Piece is about being a frothy emotional wetbag in a modern world, but that gets derailed by grief. We just had to learn more.

I don't think reviews are very helpful for performers. Especially performers as weak-at-the-knees as I.

Hi Patrick, tell me about your Edinburgh show.

Well I lost two close family members in January. What was always just supposed to be a show about penises, has morphed into a show about being fundamentally an emotional man but still not having the emotional wherewithal to deal with tragedy.

What does Edinburgh mean to you?

Hot hot summers, and crazy-ass pool parties.

Who inspires you and why?

Lolly Adefope, Phoebe Bourke, Lou Sanders, Ed MacArthur, and Jack Rooke.

They're five of the most talented, generous and kind people I know.

Describe your best or worst experiences on stage.

I once dislocated my shoulder onstage. That was very sore. The audience thought it was part of the joke and laughed at my pain. I felt like I was part of the Victorian freak show. There is no sadder clown than the dislocated clown (this is a description of my best experience on stage).

Describe your best or worst review.

Please no. I don't think reviews are very helpful for performers. Especially performers as weak-at-the-knees as I.

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

A writer, an academic, a designer, A THIEF!?

What was the last book you read?

Another Day in The Death Of America by Gary Younge.

Actually, was The Gruffalo, but in between being sent these questions and answering them, I read the above title so I would appear more engaged/relevant/grown-up. Seriously though, Gary Younge is brilliant, his book is incredible and heartbreaking and I couldn't recommend it highly enough.

What does California mean to you?

Wet wet summers, and the world's largest arts festival.

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 a discussion show where the guests review University Union charity fashion shows. Stella McCartney, Vivienne Westwood, and Jeremy Scott are all involved.

Twitter: @patrickturps

© 2017 On the Mic.

Related Listings

Patrick Turpin: Itty Bitty Little Titty Piece

Patrick Turpin: Itty Bitty Little Titty Piece

Turpy – star of Climaxed (BBC Three) and Pop Sludge (4Music) – returns with a stand-up show/hour of performance art/arse flapping gently in the wind, which rodgers the system quite firmly in the poo-poo place... 

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