Mark Nelson discusses the youth of today, his long association with the Fringe, and his special memory of Arthur's seat.
Tell us about your Fringe show
My Fringe show this year is about facing up to not being young any more and how much I detest the youth of today. Within a sprinkling of Jesus chat.
Best thing about the Fringe?
The fact the bars are open until 5 in the morning.
Worst thing about the Fringe?
The fact the bars are open until 5 in the morning.
How many years have you been coming to the Fringe?
This will be my fifth solo show at the Fringe but I've been coming to see stuff since I was about 16.
Favourite Fringe venue?
I'd have to say the Gilded Balloon. Great atmosphere about the place, staff are all lovely.
Best Fringe memory?
My best Fringe memory was about three years ago. I'd had probably my best show of the festival and had then headlined a late show in the big cow. After some drinks I walked back to where I was staying as it was getting light and watched the sun rise at the bottom of Arthur's Seat beside the pond. Just me and a duck. It was pretty special.
Best heckle?
Best heckle was a Belgian man randomly shouting out during my show that his country was full of paedophiles. Came completely out of nowhere.
Craziest on stage experience?
Having a man at The Stand, whilst I was onstage, attempt to pull my flys up because I hadn't noticed they were down.
What’s on your rider?
Scarlett Johannssen
How do you wind down after a show?
Britpop, the film Jaws and Amyl Nitrate.
What do you love about Scotland?
The fact that at times we generally do not give a sh*t about anything if we are having fun.
What do you like about Edinburgh?
That Glasgow is only 40 miles away.
What’s the most Scottish thing you’ve done?
Vote Yes to independence.
What kind of jokes do a Scottish crowd seem to respond to?
If a Scottish crowd love you then they will really love you. There is no particular type of humour, if you are funny you will have the time of your life up here.
Favourite joke?
Polish guy goes to an optician. Optician says, can you read the chart. Polish guy says, Read it? I know the guy.
See Mark Nelson – Older Than Jesus at the Gilded Balloon: Sportsmans from 5th August – 30th August.
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