Henry Rowley talks about heading out on tour
Published: Wednesday 9th October 2024
Henry Rowley's hit debut show from the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Just Literally, is currently on tour across the UK and Ireland.
How did you first get started in the world of comedy?
I started on social media, which meant 90% of stand-up comedians hated me. Then I made the transition to stand-up comedy which meant 99% of stand-up comedians hated me!
What was the creative process like for Just Literally?
I spent about a year doing various spots trying stand-up material (with varying results) before realising that I was much more comfortable and happy doing sketch comedy. I started to weave these characters and sketches into my routine and found it went much better; then I just built the show around what I found most funny or most enjoyed performing. That, and multiple breakdowns.
How do you perform for online platforms like TikTok versus live audiences?
When I'm on stage I have to wear trousers (but what they don't know is I'm not wearing pants, so who really has the last laugh?).
Do you find you've developed a preference for performing on stage versus online?
There's pros and cons to both. When it goes well, performing on stage is the best feeling in the world. Being able to actually see people laughing is amazing, rather than just seeing likes flowing in. But it takes a lot more out of you and there's a lot more pressure. But that's all part of the fun (that and not wearing pants)!
What was it like to perform Just Literally at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe?
It was incredible. Exhausting but so so brilliant. Dawn French even came to the show and came up to me after to say how much she enjoyed it and that is something I will never forget for the rest of my life.
What is it like to be bringing Just Literally on tour? Do you have any particular stops you're looking forward to?
It's so exciting! It's obviously scary (what if they can tell I'm not wearing pants?), but I can't wait to get going. I'm really looking forward to Leicester as it's my home town, and also the final show in London - I have a lot of friends coming to that, so that'll be exciting!
What do you hope audiences take away from Just Literally?
Well, I'd hope they wouldn't steal anything if I'm honest, but you can never tell with people nowadays, can you?
How would you describe Just Literally in one word?
Reallyreallyreallygoodandfunnyandareallygreatnightout.
Henry Rowley: Just Literally is on tour in the UK and Ireland through until the end of November. henryrowley.com
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