Terry Alderton has had one of the most varied careers in stand-up. He's done mainstream, shiny-floored primetime TV, been nominated for an Edinburgh Comedy Award and, most recently, has evolved into one of the most intriguing, exciting, unpredictable live performers on the circuit, doing his act and playing a demonic alter ego commenting on his act at the same time. He's a one-off and really has to be seen. You can, however, also listen to Terry Alderton. He has a new series starting on Radio 4 on July 29 at 11pm, entitled Terry Alderton’s All Crazy Now, in which he plays a succession of vivid characters in a succession of off-the-wall sketches and stories. As the press release says, "Prepare to be surprised, shocked and delighted. No monkeys were harmed in the making of this show and, of course, he didn't actually shoot a sparrow."
1. What is the last thing you do before you go onstage (apart from check your flies, check for spinach between teeth and check your knickers aren't sticking out of your skirt)?
Place both my hands on the theatre wall and ask the universe to help me find the funny.
2. What irritates you?
In comedy it’s Twitter. For me this isn’t a problem but for some coming off a stage and being publicly reviewed..?! I feel this may cause some comics to back down from what they really want to say on the green.
3. What is the most dangerous thing you have ever done?
Every time I go on stage it’s dangerous... Though I think physically it was at the De Montfort Hall Leicester a few years back. I let myself down as I do. I rolled over onto my back and put my feet up in the air to perform my ‘talking shoes’ routine. But unfortunately had not estimated how close I was to the edge of the stage and a six foot drop. This ended up with me falling off stage and having my fall broken by obliging punters.
4. What is the most stupid thing you have ever done?
Well this is up for debate!
5. What has surprised you the most during your career in comedy?
THAT IM STILL GOING!
Read more answers from Terry Alderton here.
