All this month we are talking to the comedian Ed Patrick. Last year he took the Edinburgh Fringe by storm and he is also currently on his debut tour around the United Kingdom which runs until May (get tickets here). With only five months until the Edinburgh Fringe, I thought it would be interesting to take a look behind the scenes…

Edinburgh Fringe is only 5 months away! How far in advance do you have to start preparing for it?

Probably a year? It’s mostly booking lots of previews and panicking.  

What are some important lessons you have learnt about performing at fringe over the years?

That despite all the hype, all the time and effort you put into promoting the show, writing, booking it, designing and planning, spending small fortunes on accommodation and sustenance and more. Despite all that. None of it really matters, the bubble of awards and nominations is not the be all and end all. The most important thing is to have fun, do what you want to do and how you want to do it. Opportunities will arise if you keep seeking them, most likely outside of the Fringe. With the Fringe it’s the taking part that counts.

What are your favourite things about the fringe?

I like the 24 hour nature of everything, but also the freedom to nap whenever (aside from during my show)

Every comedian has their favourite places to eat at fringe – what are your favourites?

I used to live in Edinburgh for a while so I’m spoilt for knowing the city outside the festival too. Having been a rickshaw driver there I know most corners. The Auld Hoose do pretty darn amazing veggie Nachos, and on the meat-eating side I do like a late night Cargo burger occasionally. I tend to do some running at the festival burning all this off.

What is the most challenging thing about performing at the fringe?

Not constantly hitting refresh on ticket sales

The most important thing is to have fun, do what you want to do and how you want to do it.

Ed Patrick

A whole month can be a long time performing in one city – what items do you take with you for home comforts?

Well first of all I’d say don’t feel like you need to do the whole month. I did half last year and it was the most fun I’ve and for the first time I didn’t get unwell. But I still treat it like I’m there for a month, so I take my coffee machine and a mini fridge. 

What is the best review you have been given about your past shows?

Bruce Dessau once said “If I was him I’d ditch medicine and do stand-up” and I frequently tell people who see the quote that Bruce is one of my hospital consultants

Three words why people should see you this year?

Quickest doctors appointment