The Boy With Tape On His Face is back in Scotland this year to astound audiences with his unique show, writes Lucy Wood...

Otherwise known as New Zealand performer Sam Wills, his creation of The Boy remains exactly that - blending stand-up comedy, mime, vaudeville and puppetry.

The show caused a stir at the festival last year, a runaway hit in fact, scooping him a nomination for Best Newcomer in the Edinburgh Comedy Awards.

And now it's back for a second run at the festival prior to an international tour; his act appealing to the child in all of us... and showcasing the heart-warming power of gaffer tape.

Ironically, non-stop talking and tricks is how Wills began his career. He's a successful stand-up and street performer and was already getting attention before The Boy came along.

Wills, 32, who now lives in Essex, said: "At first, The Boy was a novelty. I originally started doing it because I wanted to do a sketch where I didn't talk. But I spoke to the front row at the beginning of the show. So next time I did it, I put tape over my mouth."

He continued: "Last year at Edinburgh the show was a sell-out, so we have come back for a return season. It's great fun and the show is different each time, because the audiences change and it's very interactive."

"Edinburgh is the ultimate showcase, you go to get noticed, but then you have to show people your act has longevity. I have already worked on a second show and next year it will be completely different. I'm also taking part in variety shows this year, so I will be showcasing some new material."

"New Zealand audiences have a very dry sense of humour, Australians aren't as smart, and British audiences are a little more critical, because you have a big history of comedy."

So who does The Boy recommend catching at this year's festival? His wife, of course. He said: "Everyone should check out my wife's show. Lili La Scala in Songs To Make You Smile - it's full of lovely vintage comedy songs and it's something a bit different."

"My survival tip for Edinburgh is to keep your feet dry and eat soup. The ground is constantly damp, and there is always the temptation to eat some crappy food, but soup will get you through."

"It's great to be back in Edinburgh for a return season, and I don't have so much of a feeling that I have to put my stamp on it. Last year definitely ticked a lot of boxes. But people need to show their act has longevity and next year we will be back with a show which is 100 per cent new. There's nothing worse than an act coming back and all they've done is change the picture on the poster. But this year we needed to come back with the same show, because last year it sold out and a lot of people missed out. They want to see the performance everyone was talking about."

Wills' ingenuous creation is such a breath of fresh air that has captured many imaginations, including that of game designers - as The Boy is set to star in his own video game for the BBC: "People will be able to control The Boy and solve a puzzle online; it's great fun", he added.

The Boy With Tape On His Face is at the Pleasance Courtyard from 15th to 28th August at 9:10pm. Listing