Andy Askins: 10 Edinburgh Fringe questions

Andy Askins answers 10 questions about their 2016 Edinburgh Fringe show...

Give us a quick overview of your comedy career so far. Are you happy with where you're at?

I did my first open spot in 2000 and started properly in 2005. I've been lucky and far exceeded any expectations I may have had. I'm a regular performer at the all the major comedy clubs including the Comedy Store and Glee and I've performed in some amazing places from India to Japan to Iraq. The highlight was an appearance at the Royal Albert Hall in March for "The Teenage Cancer Trust". Still pinching myself.

Tell us two truths and one lie about yourself.

1. Brad Pitt fathered my daughter.
2. I nearly destroyed a school with a mortar shell.
3. My great great grandfather was a candidate for British prime minister.

Describe your new show in exactly 23 words.

Man or mouse? Hero or villain? Father or child? Walter White or Walter Mitty? Victim or bully? I need four more words. Five!

Any cunning plans to get more punters in?

I'm using an army of grouse beaters to encourage the undecideds towards my venue.

What's your plan for trying to eat - and drink - healthily during the Fringe?

I'm staying in Leith to avoid temptation. I have no will power. How do you think it will go?

What will you miss most while you're away from home?

Sleep.

Aside from performing, what else are you looking forward to doing in Scotland's fine capital?

So many shows to see (including the Edinburgh Tattoo) and some nice long family walks with the dog.

If you took over programming a Fringe venue, what would your perfect line-up of comedians be?

Sorry, I'm pleading the 5th amendment. I do like variety though. There would have to be a bit of everything; slapstick, one liners, observational, political, a Northerner.

Name the one person you'd rather not bump into during the festival.

Stevie Wonder because there'd be only one person to blame.

Why should audiences pick your show over the 1,800+ other Fringe offerings listed on BCG this year?

Because I need the money to set up an animal shelter.

'Andy Askins: The Man With No Name' is at Gilded Balloon at the Counting House at 7pm on 3-14, 16-28 Aug. Listing