Doctor Ahmed: 10 Edinburgh Fringe questions

Doctor Ahmed answers 10 questions about his 2016 Edinburgh Fringe show...

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

I decided to jump in the deep end and made my comedy debut with my own fringe show in Perth Australia in February of this year. It was an overwhelming success in that I sold out, I got some great reviews and most importantly the audience enjoyed themselves.

I've really consolidated my skills and grown as a comic in subsequent fringes and I've enjoyed the steep learning curve. I'd love to further develop my cabaret and physical comedy skills in future shows.

Tell us two truths and one lie about yourself (but mix them up, keep us guessing!).

1. I have an extra bit of cartilage in my ear.

2. I am related to Diana Ross.

3. I bungee jumped over Victoria Falls once.

Describe your new show in exactly 23 words.

A relatable, lighthearted and insightful look into the world of being a modern-day doctor with some song and dance added for good measure!

Any cunning plans to get more punters in?

Thinking of offering free medical advice on the streets to promote my show!

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

It's really easy to eat terribly when you are away from home and don't have a routine. I'm realistic and know I'm not going to cook during EdFringe so will try eat earthier options when eating out and leave a stash of fruit and vegetables and healthy ready-made meals in the fridge.
I don't drink alcohol or smoke, so hopefully will manage not to start during EdFringe!

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

Routine
Sunshine
My favourite Lebanese restaurant

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

I would love to see some other shows, the Fringe is like a treasure trove of talent. I'm always so impressed and humbled by some of the artists at fringe festivals.

I would also love to explore the city on foot a bit and get to know it.

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

Interesting question.
Ruby Wax
Joan Rivers
Russell Peters
Jar Jar Binks

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

Michael McIntyre because he is my comedy hero and I would get star struck and act a fool!

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

Because it's something fresh, it's happy and sad, it has stand-up, cabaret and theatre elements, it's something everyone can relate to and all the profits go to charity. And... no one should miss out seeing my Bollywood doctor-patient death sequence number!

'Doctor in the House' is at Spotlites at 8:10pm until the 14th August. Listing