Katharine Ferns: 10 Edinburgh Fringe questions

Katharine Ferns answers 10 questions about her 2016 Edinburgh Fringe show.

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

I used to be a painter and a friend dared me to go on stage to tell jokes. Once I did one show I was hooked and now four years later I am at the Edinburgh Fringe with my second solo show. So, I guess you should make all your life decisions based on a dare!

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

1. I cured my fear of heights by going skydiving.

2. I have jumped out of a moving car.

3. I used to be a sailor on a tall ship.

Describe your new show in exactly 23 words.

Funny storytelling show about trying to find humour in my struggles as a survivor of domestic violence with some feminism for comic relief.

Any cunning plans to get more punters in?

I did the naked promo at the Spank! show last year, so I might do that if I drink enough again!

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

I didn't plan on eating or drinking healthily. Trying to eat as much haggis as possible. I love it!

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

I miss the sushi in Canada and I miss my electric blanket at home. I don't know how anyone survives as a single person without the companionship of a hot blanket at the end of the night. Oh, and I will miss not being mistaken as American! I try to say 'aboot' as often as I can so people know I am Canadian.

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

Did I mention the haggis already? Last year I walked around the forest by the Rosslyn Chapel and I would love to do that again. I haven't done Arthur's Seat yet and looking for a buddy to go with!

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

Maria Bamford, Sarah Kendall, Mike Birbiglia, Doug Stanhope and Rory Scovel to mix things up.

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

I'd rather not bump into an Arceus. I am not cool enough to play Pokemon Go but I heard that he is a bad one? Also, I don't want to see anyone from Canada Student Loans Collections either. That would be even scarier!

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

I will be donating part of the proceeds from my show Katharine Ferns is Faking It to Refuge which helps survivors of domestic violence across the UK. I will also be raising money for www.health-in-mind.org.uk which focuses on mental health initiatives in Scotland.

Here are some reviews from audience members about my show and their words would convince me to see my show!

"Sad, uplifting, courageous, funny, horrific, mind blowing! Unforgettable brilliance! You are amazing!" - Corin J.
"I was expecting normal stand-up comedy not a deep thought provoking, funny, sad story of courage" - Jason S.
"An incredible story that will make you laugh when you probably want to cry! This woman is amazing!" - Mariana D.

'Katharine Ferns is Faking It (Work in Progress)' is at Cabaret Voltaire at 6pm until the 28th August. Listing