2015 Edinburgh Fringe

Naomi Paul answers 10 Edinburgh Fringe Questions

Naomi Paul

Looks like Naomi Paul knows how to entice in audiences, what with her show being titled Price Includes Biscuits.

1. Tell us about your career so far. Are you happy with where you're at?

I write and perform my own work. It crosses genres and covers comedy, theatre, song, poetry and spoken word. Altogether it is a real comedic, quirky, topical mix.

I started with open mic slots in 2010 and gradually developed my comedic style - which is deadpan and quirky and is definitely based on my Jewish background.
In 2012 I brought my debut solo show Reshape While Damp to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe which then transferred to London in January 2013. As a newbie on the entertainment and comedy circuit it was a great experience. This then led me to perform at a number of other festivals nationwide including Birmingham Comedy Festival, the Henley-on Thames Fringe and I headlined Pulse Ensemble Theatre's Change Festival in New York.

I'm happy where I'm at to date - and I'm looking forward to performing more widely across genres at new festivals and venues.

2. Describe your show in exactly 23 words.

From lingerie to libraries, Birmingham to the Balkans, the personal to the political. A poignant, surreal and funny journey. With songs and biscuits.

3. Why are you putting yourself through this famously stressful experience?

Good question. Yes, it is definitely stressful and demanding but for me the Fringe is all about growth as a performer. The creative environment stretches you as an artist. Unlike most other festivals, The Edinburgh Fringe gives me "industrial" experience as well as the opportunity to see a mix of shows and meet a wide range of performers during one hectic month - but no less addictive...

4. Any cunning plans to get more punters in?

Giving out high quality biscuits whilst flyering. And in the show. Gluten free biscuits available on request.

5. How much money do you think you'll lose/make this year?

Another good question! Not sure. Let's just say it was a toss-up between a fringe return or an expensive Caribbean cruise.

6. What's your weirdest past Fringe experience?

It happened at this year's fringe actually. I am flyering the queue for UKIP the Musical on one of those Edinburgh days where you experience all seasons in one minute. Nevertheless I persevere as I figure that targeted flyering is a good idea regardless of the weather and I say that to people in the queue. I also have songs and politics. Plus biscuits.

As I settle into my seat and take off all the layers, someone approaches me. 'I'm from the BBC,' she says. 'I'm interested in talking to you about the way you were flyering.' I've come to realise that stuff happens while you are doing something else even when flyering. These unexpected moments in Edinburgh can literally change the course of your life. That's the beauty of the Fringe

7. What other shows are you hoping to see?

Other shows at the Space venues where I am performing again for the second time. Summerhall, where there is always interesting and experimental theatre. And I will be checking out what's on at the Traverse. Hope to see Margaret Thatcher Queen of Soho. Again! And of course anyone else from Birmingham!

8. If you took over programming a venue, what would your perfect line-up of comedians be?

Lenny Bruce. Tony Hancock. Jack Dee. Victoria Wood. Joan Rivers.

9. Name the one person you'd rather not bump into during the festival.

Michael Gove. He's dangerous.

10. Why should audiences pick your show over the 1,700+ other comedy offerings at this year's festival?

It's original. It's personal, political and relevant. I use my Jewish background in an unexpected way. It also has songs and biscuits. What's not to like?

'Price Includes Biscuits' is at 8:05pm at theSpace Surgeons Hall on 7-8, 10-15, 17-22, 24-29 August. Listing

Published: Friday 21st August 2015

Share this page