2016 Edinburgh Fringe

Colin Mochrie: 10 Edinburgh Fringe questions

Colin Mochrie answers 10 questions about 2016 hypnosis-impressionism hybrid show, Hyprov.

Give us a quick overview of your comedy career so far. Are you happy with where you're at?

I started doing improv in 1980, hanging in till Whose Line Is It Anyway? happened. Becoming an overnight success at 40, I've been touring all around the world, been lucky enough to work on some film and TV projects with very talented people and been able to make a living at something that wasn't an occupation when I was growing up. I'm happy where I'm at, but never content. Still hoping to be put on the Canadian $5 bill.

Tell us two truths and one lie about yourself (but mix them up, keep us guessing!).

Had George W Bush open for me at a gig with 10 minutes of stand-up.
Was voted 5th sexiest man in Canada.
On the table-reading of the movie script of The Tuxedo, I played Jackie Chan's part so he could sit beside me and understand where the comedy was.

Describe your new show in exactly 23 words.

Asad Mecci will ask for 20 volunteers, hypnotise them and par it down to the 5 best subjects. Then I improvise with them.

Any cunning plans to get more punters in?

Mass hypnosis.

What's your plan for trying to eat - and drink - healthily during the Fringe?

Planning to buy food and do all the cooking in the flat so that I can portion control and eat healthy. I fear it will not go well.

What will you miss most while you're away from home?

Sleep and hydration.

Aside from performing, what else are you looking forward to doing in Scotland's fine capital?

Walking Arthur's Seat to remind myself of the awesome shape I am not in.

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

Katherine Ryan, James Acaster, Phil Nichol, Amy Schumer, Stewart Lee, Susan Calman.

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

Me, because it would mean I have slipped into a different reality and who wants to go through that again?

Why should audiences pick your show over the 1,800+ other Fringe offerings listed on BCG this year?

It's never been done before. If you don't believe in hypnotism and you think improv is faked, if you come to our show you can save time.

'Hyprov: Improv Under Hypnosis' is at Assembly George Square Theatre at 10pm on 3-28 Aug. Listing

Published: Thursday 11th August 2016

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