Papa CJ discusses lap dancing, peanut M&Ms and the Scottish weather.
Tell us about your Fringe show
Naked is an autobiographical tale that straddles the genres of storytelling, theatre, stand-up comedy and lap dancing! I even took lessons from a professional ‘exotic’ dancer (stripper) in Melbourne to prepare for a part of the show.
Best thing about the Fringe?
3000 shows a day from all over the world to choose from. It is the biggest possible candy store for a kid who loves the arts. And of course catching up with comedians who I’ve worked with in different countries over the years.
Worst thing about the Fringe?
The terrible eating habits you develop and highly strung stressed out comedians losing money who are unable to hold a conversation for longer than 3.5 seconds if it doesn’t concern work, because they are constantly looking over your shoulder for industry folk to network with.
How many years have you been coming to the Fringe?
2004 was my first Fringe as a punter and 2005 as a comedian.
Favourite Fringe venue?
I have a soft spot for the Gilded Balloon. It’s where I popped my Fringe cherry.
Best Fringe memory?
Being sneaked on the stage by the compere to close a rowdy Friday night Late ‘n’ Live at the Gilded Balloon 9 months after my first ever gig…and killing it! I couldn’t sleep all night after that.
Best heckle?
“Oye! I f***ed your mum!” But it was only a good heckle because the heckler was my dad.
Craziest on stage experience?
Wasn’t so much on stage but I remember there being a fire alarm at Gilded Balloon and I ended up performing to 200 people without a microphone in the middle of Bristo Square. But that’s hardly crazy by Edinburgh standards.
What’s on your rider?
Peanut M&Ms!
How do you wind down after a show?
Wind down? Are you kidding! It’s the Fringe. I stay always on for the entire month and then enroll into therapy in September.
What do you love about Scotland?
The cool weather and crisp air, keeping in mind I normally get here after a 45 degree centigrade Delhi summer.
What do you like about Edinburgh?
The view from Carlton Hill and having a hot chocolate and smoked salmon bagel at Elephants and Bagels.
What’s the most Scottish thing you’ve done?
Is climbing up to Arthur’s seat a Scottish thing to do? I’m trying to avoid an alcohol related reference here!
What kind of jokes do a Scottish crowd seem to respond to?
Funny ones!
Favourite joke?
I come from the land of the Kama Sutra, I can f*** you in more ways than you can count!
Papa CJ will perform at Laughing Horse @ Espionage from today until August 23.
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