Jack Barry: 10 Edinburgh Fringe questions

Jack Barry 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 applied to Cambridge University because I thought to be a comedian you had to be in the Footlights. When I was too stupid to get in I went to Leeds and joined their equivalent, The Tealights. That was in 2010. I've been doing stand-up since 2011. I think it's going well, although I never really know. I was in The Comedy Reserve and Comedy Zone in Edinburgh and have supported the likes of James Acaster and Joe Lycett on tour. Now I'm hoping I can build a fan base under my own name.

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

1. I can speak Mandarin.

2. I once sent a can of coke to the cast of Top Gear in a restaurant, because I thought it would be funny.

3. My best friend is a tawny owl.

Describe your new show in exactly 23 words.

The show is about figuring out my place in the world. Mainly, does the world need another straight, white, male comic? Hopefully yes.

Any cunning plans to get more punters in?

I might do a one-off show in Mandarin, like Eddie Izzard, but I doubt there will be much of a market for it.

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

I have many lofty plans this year about not drinking as much and doing loads of exercise. Then I tore my cruciate ligament so can't do any exercise. I'll just drink instead?

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

My dealer.

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

Limping up Arthur's Seat and not being able to get down again.

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

All my mates, probably. Then we could just hang out in the bar and pretend the rest of the festival isn't happening. Fin Taylor, Mat Ewins, Mae Martin, Adam Hess, Lou Sanders, Emma Sidi. Those are few to start off with, there are more, I promise I have more friends than that.

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

Louis CK. He will be there and he's my biggest hero. If I met him I know I'd fuck it up and say something stupid.

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

I have a crippling need to make sure everyone is having a nice time. If you come to mine I will feel compelled to make sure you get your money's worth. It's a free show.

'Jack Barry: You Don't Know Jack' is at Just the Tonic at The Mash House at 6:40pm until the 28th August. Listing