I haven't seen American entertainer Marcus Monroe perform live but having read this interview with him below I think I'd like to. He likes to push things. He has previously juggled in a pit full of alligators (link below) though I guess he won't be doing that in Edinburgh this summer. Do you know how difficult it is to bring alligators through customs? Though there should be plenty of ball-tossing as the show is about Monroe's pursuit of fame as the world's most beloved juggler. Along the way he may well be evoking the unpredictable spirit of maverick comedian Andy Kaufman, who is one of the performer's heroes. Have a read of this interview and catch him onstage. With or without 'gators.

The Rise and Fall of Marcus Monroe is at Assembly George Square Gardens from August 3 - 27. Tickets here.

Picture credit: Mindy Tucker 

1. What is the last thing you do before you go onstage (apart from check your flies and/or check your knickers aren't sticking out of your skirt and check for spinach between your teeth)?   

I definitely try to use the bathroom, just because it's the worst feeling in the world when you step out on stage and have to go.  A number one I can deal with but my show is so physical that if I have to go number two and it's during the show, it's gonna get ugly. When that's all done, I just try to psyche myself up. I listen to some music and convince myself that I'm not crazy. 

2. What irritates you?

Most crowds. People stop dead in their tracks or are on the phone and walk 100 times slower, so now everyone behind them has to pass them and it's just annoying. But I'm also guilty of that, so I guess I irritate myself?  

3. What is the most dangerous thing you have ever done? 

I once broke both of my feet at the same time after jumping off a 12 foot unicycle with a firework exploding from my head while also juggling fire. It was funny and painful. I walked like a pimp for 3 weeks. 

4. What is the most stupid thing you have ever done? 

I once juggled inside a pit full of live alligators and crocodiles.  I did a fairly full on show for them. I filmed it for YouTube and you can watch it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UeX1gpdBfss 

5. What has surprised you the most during your career in comedy? 

I'm surprised that I still get starstruck when I get to perform with comedians I respect. Then they wanna hang out, and I don't know how to act. 

Interview continues here.