US comedian and writer Ali Siddiq is set to visit the UK soon with his critically-acclaimed show Ali Siddiq is bigger than bars. The topics at the heart of the show are quite unique - spending six years in prison and subsequent freedom. He's now turning his hard times into hearty laughs, with routines on uncomfortable prison nudity, the time he doused himself in baby oil and refused to leave his cell, and much more.

We caught up with him to find out more:

Hi Ali. How has 2018 been for you so far?

Absolutely outstanding. Amazing in some aspects and fairly disappointing in some. But, overall, blessed.

You started performing stand-up in prison?

There's no place to perform in prison, so every gig has been outside prison walls.

Prison was a tough environment overall, but a very good place to hone observation skills.

I started at Jus Jokin Comedy Club. I was out in October and up on stage in December.

You're now not only a comedian but an activist, advocate and volunteer too. Philanthropy is now an important part of your life?

Yes, when I have the resources.

I donate to school programmes. I'm involved in the Houston Food Bank charity event every year; and Social Warriors, a Walmart funded event that gives kids a shopping spree during the holidays.

Do you have any thoughts on how society could be changed to reduce crime?

I have 1,000 thoughts. Put me over law. I could get rid of several laws.

So much could be done to understand causes of people being locked up. People starving is a big part of [people going to] prison.

We need social reform; changes to cause a reduction of people being incarcerated.

More social and educational activities in elementary schools... The more you socially impact children and their families... You can start to create a base with education through social and cultural events per community. We should not promote materialism and not promote the social divides.

It's good to increase languages - make people bilingual, which increases cultural connection between different groups. If you're African American and can speak Spanish, it gives you the opportunity to connect with more people. And if you can connect with more people culturally and socially - whether you speak Mandarin, French, German - it gives you the opportunity to change your dynamics, which lessens your chances of committing crime.

You're set to bring Ali Siddiq is bigger than bars to the UK at the end of the month. What can audiences expect?

An absolutely informational hysterical and compelling story.

Have you been to the UK before? What are you planning to do when not on stage?

Yes, a couple of times.

I have done the tourist thing, so I'm probably am going to chill this time.

Ali Siddiq is bigger than bars is at the Soho Theatre in London from Monday 29th October to Saturday 3rd November. Info & Tickets