Harry Stachini
Published: Tuesday 2nd July 2024
One random comedian, eight random questions; it's the ultimate test of funny person and fate. This week we're anticipating the imminent arrival of Grenade - the new show from Harry Stachini, which will hopefully blow up big time at this August's Edinburgh Fringe. In a good way. How would he describe it?
"Grenade, in a nutshell, is about family, relationships and honesty," says Stachini. "It's a solid show packed with relatable routines. The style of the show is the closest I've come to writing and performing the type of stand-up comedy I would pay to watch myself."
Unlikely to bomb, then, hopefully. How is he looking forward to that fraught few weeks?
"I try to look at the fringe as a game in order for me to not get bogged down in everything," says the Manchester-based comic. "This allows me to play with the highs and lows of it rather than be consumed by the pressure and intensity of performing every day."
Fancy a job with the England football team (immediate start)? Before that though, Harry Stachini, your Random 8 await.
Who is - or was - your most interesting relative?
My dad, because he always has a story to tell, and his career in the police was like something out of a film.
Which British town should be abolished?
Scunthorpe, but rather than abolish the town we should instead construct a giant wall around the perimeter and turn it into a real-life Hunger Games. I only say this because every time I've gigged there it's been harder work than necessary.
What's the most extravagant thing you've ever done?
As a kid, my mum once put Parma ham in my lunchbox and my dad went mad because he didn't want me growing up with a silver spoon in my mouth. But, then again, his dad - my granddad - once called my mum a 'Tory bitch' because the house she grew up in had a garage.
Ever met a particularly great/disappointing famous person?
Once, as a kid, at the Royal Albert Hall we watched a family friend, Ray Styles, the bass player in The Hollies, perform. As a family we attended an after-party with a few famous faces and I watched my dad jokily introduce himself to Cliff Richard by saying 'Alright Elton'.
Who are you most envious of?
My sister's dog Coco doesn't have a care in the world, gets regular puppy facials and has a better credit score than me. The only downside is you'd have to live with my sister Jordan.
Is there a book or film that changed your life?
Richard Pryor - Live in Concert (1979) was the first time I'd watched stand-up comedy that blew my mind because of how personally honest it was.
What's the worst thing in your wardrobe?
Most recently, it was a mustard/yellow t-shirt that I quite liked but I once wore it to a family party and got called Ryan Air all night. It's never made an appearance since.
Which low-key law would you introduce?
Anyone above the age of 25 caught using Snapchat should be parachuted into Scunthorpe once the wall is constructed.
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