Josh Berry interview
Published: Saturday 11th August 2018
BCG got up close and personal with comedy impressionist and rising star Josh Berry to hear his thoughts the Fringe...
What's the one lifesaver you're glad you packed?
My phone. As an impressionist, I need to be able to listen to the people I want to impersonate (on YouTube or whatever) as much as possible.
Even though I've learnt to imitate the people I do in my show, I still want listen and watch them all the time to refine and improve. I think impressions can always be made better, so I'm always practising! It makes me a better performer, if a little difficult to live with...
Have you noticed anything different about the Fringe this year?
This is my debut year!! EVERYTHING IS SO NEW AND EXCITING.
Where's the place you go to escape the madness!?
I like to escape the madness of the Fringe by working out (scrolling through memes) in the gym (my bed). I'm incredibly on top of my life (lazy) when I'm not on stage and I love to push myself physically (stare aimlessly at my phone until I drift off to sleep).
Where do you like to relax after a show?
I actually like to hang around other performers as much as I can. I find it helpful to be around other people straight after my show, so I don't sit dissecting it obsessively (a horrible and fruitless exercise).
There are SO many talented and interesting artists at the Fringe. I try to meet and get to know as many as possible, plus see their shows when I have the time. I also occasionally throw a few impressions into my conversation just to promo the show... comedians particularly enjoy my James Acaster!
What shows have you seen that really stand out?
Roisin and Chiara's Show Back to Back is like nothing I have ever seen before. Lightning paced and absolutely awesome!! I'd also very highly recommend Sukh Ojla, an excellent stand-up.
In terms of impressionists. Naomi McDonald and Steff Todd are two rising stars with bags of talent. Well worth watching!!
What's been the highlight of your Fringe so far?
Whilst doing a Louis Theroux themed piece of improv I (semi-seriously) told an older lady to 'roughly push me aside'. She rugby tackled me. On stage. In front of 60 people.
What can people expect from your show?
A whirlwind of impressions, stand-up and musical comedy sharing the relationship I have with all the different voices I've stolen (mimic).
As well as an exhibition of loads of impressions, many of which you won't have heard done before (James Acaster; Love Island voiceover; John McEnroe; Louis Theroux; Dan Radcliffe etc), it explores how I learn voices and how doing voices affects me, taking a funny look at some of the sad moments in my life.
More than just an impressions showreel, I want to share with audiences a version of what's inside my head - a cacophony of voices and playful ideas but also fragility and vulnerability. Think Bo Burnham meets Alistair McGowan!
Sum up your Fringe experience in a word...
Relentless.
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