Stuart Mitchell talks about his debut show, Dealt A Bad Hand.

Tell us about your Fringe show

The show is called Dealt a Bad Hand. From tragic accidents and medical complications to losing both parents, my show is a hilarious (I hope) take on dealing with life's misfortunes and coming out the other end unscathed. There is no better comedy that steams from tragedy. Normally comedians do a show about their dead dad or their dead mum but with me you get 2 for 1. My tragedy is your economy.

How does it feel to be playing the Fringe for the first time?

I did my first ever gig in Edinburgh so to be performing my debut in the city is a great feeling. My dad also used to run a Singer sewing machine shop on Princess St and then Castle St so I’ve spent much of my youth and later life in the capital. Everyone in Scotland should make the effort to attend the festival. It’s on our doorstep and it the largest arts festival in the world.

Which live act are you most looking forward to seeing at the Fringe?

Randy Writes a Novel. I saw the show in Australia and it blew me away. And that was just a preview so can’t wait to see the final product. I am also seeing Amy Schumer but that doesn’t count as she’s not part of the festival programme.

If you were not a performer/comedian what would you be doing?

Well I still have a job! I work for the charity Sue Ryder. We provide incredible hospice and neurological care for people facing a frightening, life-changing diagnosis.

How do you combat pre-gig nerves?

I take 10 deep breaths before I walk on stage. It always calms me down.

Worst on stage experience?

HMP Barlinnie. I talk about the gig in my show. Even before I walked on stage I was in trouble with the Governor as I said into the backstage mic just before the show started - “Look guys, no heckling the acts on stage, no talking but most importantly if you can make sure all your mobile phones are turned off”. Oops.

How do you recover from a hefty heckle? Do you have a set of stock replies?

You should never use stock lines. As it’s not your writing or material. It’s best to address what the heckler has said and try to come up with something on the spot. Luckily I don’t get heckled often and if I do it’s normally friendly. Also if you are being heckled maybe you need to tighten your material to remove the gaps of opportunity for someone to shout out.

What do you love about Scotland?

The banter. What other nation love a good laugh and don’t take things too seriously. And that links in nicely to my own show. Having lost both parents at such a young age is awful but I am ok with it. You learn to deal with what live throws at you and stand tall. That’s what being Scottish is all about.

What do you like about Edinburgh?

Although I consider myself to be a Glaswegian I actually prefer Edinburgh as a city. It is such a vibrant city. There is always something going on. Plus walking through Princess St garden and looking up at the castle makes you proud to be Scottish.

What’s the most Scottish thing you’ve done?

I burnt my eyelids so badly while in Adelaide that I needed hospital treatment. I mean who burns their eyelids? Seriously!

Who’s your favourite Scottish comedian?

Raymond Mearns. The most talented, effortless and funniest comedian in Scotland today. I have learnt so much watching him and for me he is the best in Scotland.

Favourite joke?

I bought myself a United Nations lunchbox. It’s the ultimate peacekeeper…………………(I wrote that).

Favourite Scottish food/drink?

Square sausage (has to be steak not lorne) , on a slice of plain loaf bread, touch of brown sauce and a wee bottle of Irn Bru (full fat).

Stuart Mitchell makes his Edinburgh debut wth ‘Dealt A Bad Hand’ at the Pleasance Courtyard – This for tickets go to www.edfringe.com