Stephen Bailey talks to HeraldScotland about rude jokes, dancing to Cheryl Cole and battered sausages.
Tell us about your Fringe show
The theme of my show is heart. It's about what you think love should be, what it is, how it can go wrong and re-finding yourself afterward. I also want the audience to feel like we're all in it together, like we are old friends.
How does it feel to be playing the Fringe for the first time?
It's so exciting to be at the Fringe doing my debut hour. I don't really know what to expect but I plan to love every minute of it and remember why I am going - because I love to entertain.
Best live act seen at Fringe?
The best live act I have seen at the Fringe is Red Bastard. I came away feeling changed, which I know sounds very American. But I felt empowered and I want to marry him.
Best thing about the Fringe?
The Fringe is all different entertainers coming together to simply do that - entertain. so we can get together and socialise which is tough to do when you're on the road. Also, the audience is coming for comedy - so we really are all in it together.
Worst thing about the Fringe?
I'm scared I'm going to eat to many battered sausages and then my bootcamp instructor will yell at me
If you were not a performer/comedian what would you be doing?
I think if I wasn't a comedian, I would definitely find a way to entertain. Maybe be a holiday rep in Magaluf... or a Power Ranger.
What do your family think of your show?
My biggest fan is my dad, which always came as a surprise as he was always quite straight-laced growing up but now he loves it and tries to give me some jokes!
How do you combat pre-gig nerves?
I have to dance to some Cheryl Cole before I go on but I find the adrenalin from the nerves really helpful
Worst on stage experience?
I once fell flat on my face as I entered the stage... it's like when someone pulls your pants down in school and everyone laughs... but in this instance it was helpful. But my face was a nice shade of embarrassed salmon for the rest of the set.
How do you recover from a hefty heckle? Do you have a set of stock replies?
I tend to flirt my way out of a heckle.
What do you love about Scotland?
The people are just so real. They say what's on their mind and I love that. Plus some of the funniest comics I know are from Scotland
What do you like about Edinburgh?
Edinburgh is the most beautiful city I've ever seen! (I think.)
What's the most Scottish thing you've done?
I was drank a pint! Is that Scottish?
Who's your favourite Scottish comedian?
My favourite Scottish is a newer act called Larry Dean. I can't help but flirt with him and he runs away.
Favourite joke?
My favourite is too rude! So come and see the show at The Gilded Balloon!
Stephen Bailey makes his Edinburgh debut with his show 'Neon Heart' at the Gilded Balloon from 30th July - 24th August
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