Tom Ward’s new stand up show ‘Love Machine’ will be at the Just The Tonic @ The Tron for the month of August so we caught up with him for a little Q and A.
Tom Ward By Steve Ullathorne
Please tell us about your brand of comedy.
Inclusive…& evasively confrontational in the same party punch. I’m all about the love.
What can audiences expect from your new show?
Something personal but not serious.
Which comedians have been your biggest influence since you decided this was your path?
Bill Hicks, Eddie Izzard, Ben Elton, Simon Amstell, Phil Kay, Jim Carrey, Chevy Chase.
What random things make you laugh in everyday life?
People trying to be cool, being drunk on my own, little kids in sunglasses.
Please tell us about your best and worst moment on stage so far.
Best moment was doing a new joke in the BBC New Comedy Award Final in 2014. I started with it and it went so well I was high for days after. It’s not recommended but you’ve got to follow your own buzz. Worst moment, being handed a toilet roll buy the security guard of the student union at Canterbury SU last year. He told me it was cos I was shit. Heckled by security! I felt very insecure afterwards.
Do you still get nervous when you do a gig?
Yes, always. Nerves are good, like little friends saying come on Tom. We all need friends.
Why is Edinburgh Fringe Festival such a great platform for comedians?
Cos everyone’s there! You have no platform anywhere else in August.
Who are you looking forward to seeing at the Fringe?
Phil Kay, Max and Ivan, Fin Taylor
What is your advice to aspiring comedians?
Be yourself, stop watching comedy on TV for a bit, talk about the weird shit that eats you up, spread the love.
What is the oddest heckle you've ever received?
“Hey mate, where’s your face?”
It still haunts me. I was stumped.
What is next for you?
Maybe a little tour. I’m up for that.
Tom Ward’s new stand up show ‘Love Machine’ will be at the Just The Tonic @ The Tron for the month of August for tickets go to www.edfringe.com
Tagged in Edinburgh Festival Fringe