Words: Claire Smith
You live in Edinburgh now. How does this change the Fringe for you?
If I didn’t live in Edinburgh I wouldn’t be able to afford the Fringe. Accommodation prices are completely out of control. On the plus side, I can walk to my venue and I don’t have to learn how to operate another washing machine.
You are releasing a book in August. Tell us about it.
I lost my sister to cancer. The book is how I dealt with the grief. But don’t worry, it IS funny. And all profits go to Macmillan Cancer support. Which is bittersweet because if it’s successful, the money will go to a worthwhile cause but I’ll miss out on some serious cash.
Tell us about your show. What can we expect?
My shows are a Celebration of Anger. If anything, or anyone, has annoyed me I use my shows as a way to get it off my chest. Bad customer service, feuding family members, relationship problems — all wrapped up in jokes. I pride myself on the quality and quantity of jokes in the show. I think this year’s show is easily my best. But I’ve been saying that every year for 17 years.
What are the best and worst things about being a comic?
The best thing about being a comic is knowing you’re doing something that is giving enjoyment and entertainment to other people. It is the polar opposite of being involved in politics.
The worst? No-one takes comics seriously. No matter what I’m talking about I can see people waiting for the punchline. Not that dissimilar to being involved in politics.
Do you have any tips for making the most of the Fringe?
See a bit of everything: comedy, theatre, dance, whatever. Don’t just stick with one genre.
Always carry two bottles of water: one to stay hydrated and one to sell to tourists.
Give yourself 30-40 mins between shows. Most shows overrun. And venues are always further away than you think. A five minute walk in Edinburgh during the Fringe will always take 15 minutes.
Any bar advertising ‘Award Winning Haggis’ does NOT serve Award Winning Haggis.
Jo Caulfield: Razor Sharp
20:15 August 4 – 27 August (Not 14 or 21)
Stand 3 (28 York Place, EH1 3EP venue number 12)
https://www.thestand.co.uk/performance/14616/jo-caulfield-razor-sharp/20230810/stand%203
You can order Jo’s Book The Funny Thing About Death here:
