Police Cops
Published: Tuesday 21st January 2020
One random comedian, eight random questions; it's the ultimate test of funny person and fate. This week's brave contestant is Nathan Parkinson from the popular sketch combo Police Cops; or sort of a sketch combo, anyway. Their stuff is more longform really, such as the new show, Badass Be Thy Name, which pops up at the Soho Theatre in late January. So how would he describe it?
"Badass Be Thy Name is a '90s British kitchen-sink drama (think Trainspotting, Human Traffic) that turns into a vampire-slaying action epic (Blade, Underworld). It had a TOTAL SELL OUT run at the Edinburgh Fringe, across the board critical success and an off-Broadway transfer."
And how did the latter go - any interesting responses?
"Turns out New York audiences don't react amazingly to extremely niche British references that only someone who's grown up in England would understand."
Keeping it real. Nathan Parkinson from Police Cops, your Random 8 await:
Who was your childhood hero (real or imaginary)?
Bugs Bunny had it all. Class, comedy, charisma, physical prowess, a gorgeous girlfriend. He's inspired me in so many ways.
I've very much modelled my acting style after his - over the top, yet believable, always thinking about carrot. His comedy style is classic fish out of water, he's so confused because for some reason he thinks everyone's a doctor, BUT THEY HARDLY EVER ARE!
I loved him as a kid. And when I found out he was a great basketball player as well, that sealed the deal.
Which TV show would you love to have been in, and which part?
I reckon Sacha Baron Cohen had a lot of fun with Ali G In Da USAiii. Also it's genius. Yeah, I would have been proud if I had created that whole format.
Do you have a favourite device?
If we're talking theatrical device, I'm partial to a bit of foreshadowing. If it's regular devices, probably my 'teethbrush'. Basically I superglued two toothbrushes together so I can brush top and bottom teeth at the same time.
What's the worst thing in your wardrobe?
Jeez, if only we could all afford the luxury of a wardrobe. I have a rail. These questions are so elitist.
Who are you most envious of?
You with your fancy wardrobe.
Do you have a favourite shop?
The wardrobe shop. One day I will be a customer.
Your most interesting injury?
I cracked my head open performing Badass Be Thy Name at Edinburgh Fringe 2019. I had mild concussion. Doctors said I damaged my crylrocamous (the part of the brain that usually keeps wardrobe envy under control). They also said it might affect my short term memory but I'm yet to have any problems, they also said it might affect my short term memory but I'm yet to have any problems...
Which place you've visited was the biggest anti-climax?
My bedroom on the night I became a man.
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