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Why do we build comedic personas, and how does humour travel across international borders? In this episode of The Comedians Paradise, host Marvin McCarthy sits down with the brilliant character comedian Rex Purnell to pull back the curtain on his unique creation: the Ecuadorian stand-up sensation, El Purnell. Rex dives deep into starting comedy as a midlife crisis, the tactical grind of flyering at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and how he radically reshaped his Ecuadorian character over the years. From the technical craft of developing a bilingual act to navigating the unique energy of performing to Spanish and Latin American crowds, this episode is a masterclass in theatrical performance and finding your creative edge. Episode Chapters: [[00:00]] Introduction to Rex Purnell and his comedy journey. [[03:07]] [[03:07]] The dynamics of bilingual comedy. [[05:00]] [[05:00]] Comedy was my midlife crisis. [[06:45]] [[10:24]] Flyering for you and not for Asian Zorro and who is right for your show. [[16:00]] [[20:30]] How I changed my Ecuadorian character. [[22:22]] [[22:22]] What makes a successful Edinburgh show and what makes someone unique, performing in Spanish audiences. [[30:45]] [[29:40]] What are Spanish and Latin audiences like, the beef between Spain, UK and Gibraltar, 20 years ago a lot more aggression. [[34:53]] [[35:45]] The role of social media in modern character comedy. [[39:22]] [[39:22]] Crafting a unique comedy style outside the mainstream. [[43:21]] [[43:21]] Personal vs. external focus when developing a stage presence. [[46:26]] If you would like to know more on El, you can go on his website at https://elpurnell.com/, his instagram at el.purnell.You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #standupcomedypodcast #comedypodcast #interviewingcomedians # #elpurnell #charactercomedy #thecomediansparadise #standupcomedy #bilingualcomedy #comedyinterview #edfringe #indiecomedy

Live from the Edinburgh Fringe, this episode of The Comedians Paradise features a brilliant, unfiltered chat with actor and writer Mark Ryder about his hit show, No Hard Felix. Dropping tonight at 8:00 PM UK time, host Marvin McCarthy sits down with Mark to unpack the inspiration behind his hilarious swipe at the corporate world and the toxic online "manosphere". We dive deep into why so many modern male role models fail, the psychological underpinnings of broken hearts, and why the "alpha male" finance bro archetype makes for perfect satirical comedy. Things also get delightfully chaotic as Marvin and Mark trade their absolute "icks", talk about the brutal realities of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), and explore how ego operates on the mats. From high-profile dramatic acting to physical comedy, this live Fringe special covers everything from gender dynamics to "Asian Zorro". Here is an overview of what we discussed: • [[02:52]] Why I did a finance bro show and what’s interesting about people [[06:00]] • [[06:00]] The manosphere documentary , taking advantage of people having their hearts broken , a lot of the male role models are shit [[11:39]] • [[11:39]] Marvins aversion to butt teeth and his trauma with teeth , Marvin and marks icks, Davids picks, [[13:51]] • [[13:51]] Ick or lick [[17:23]] • [[17:23]] My first comedy acting role [[18:28]] • [[22:24]] We both do BJJ , ego in BJJ , turning to a Joe rogan podcast [[28:11]] • [[35:06]] Asian Zorro and Felix [[41:44]] If you would like to know more on Mark, follow his Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/_markryder. You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #standupcomedypodcast #comedypodcast #interviewingcomedians #podcastinterview #standupcomedian #thecomediansparadise #markryder #nohardfelix #edfringe #edinburghfringe #comedypodcast #manosphere #bjjlife #financebro

In this episode of The Comedians Paradise, we dive into the world of alternative comedy and physical theatre with Sean Gibbs, a Brooklyn-based stand-up comedian, physical actor, and classically trained theatrical clown. Best known on the comedy circuit for blending traditional stand-up with avant-garde physical comedy, Sean joins us to reveal the raw reality of the industry. We sit down to discuss his eye-opening experiences undergoing clown comedy training at the legendary École Philippe Gaulier in France, the stark class divide within modern performing arts, and why the industry desperately lacks socio-economic diversity. Sean also unpacks the unique live performance genius of Mark Dean Quinn and shares what it really takes to survive the grind when you drop everything to hustle at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Here is an overview of what we discussed: [[06:52]] My experience of the clowning courses I've done: The good, the bad, and the terrible [[10:40]] [[11:33]] Going to École Gaulier's "funeral" [[16:40]] [[18:00]] Gaulier lessons many years later [[18:52]] [[27:12]] A lot of rich kids go to Gaulier and think they are funny, what Gaulier is trying to do, rich and poor people [[33:06]] [[33:34]] Clowning needs more diversity, you’ve got to be rich or very poor to make it [[36:51]] [[34:00]] You got to be rich or very poor [[35:24]] [[36:51]] The genius of Mark Dean Quinn [[40:51]] If you would like to know more on Sean, you can follow him on Instagram at seangibbs108.You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise.

Why do we look at an audience and change who we are? In this episode of The Comedians Paradise, host Marvin McCarthy sits down with legendary comedian, broadcaster, and author Robin Ince to unpack the psychology of performance, the power of artistic masks, and his highly anticipated book, The Future of Jokes. Robin opens up about his early roots in 1980s alternative comedy (from Rik Mayall to Alexei Sayle) and shares a critical lesson for all creatives: why trying to find a voice that merely "works" can make you end up hating the art form you love. Here is an overview of what we discussed: [[00:00]] My love of comedy, launching The Future of Jokes tour, and the importance of doing what you want. [[03:48]] [[02:30]] The psychological dangers of making snap judgements about a crowd. [[03:16]] [[03:40]] The creative trap: how shaping yourself for others makes you hate what you love.[[05:00]] [[05:00]] Staying true to your vision: lessons from Josie Long and other authentic acts. [[05:48]] [[11:00]] Why you don’t need to win every single audience over, and celebrating the uncompromising acts I love—from Gavin Webster to Kiri Pritchard-McLean and Marjolein Robertson. [[17:00]] [[18:26]] The sheer brilliance of DIY maverick Mark Dean Quinn: unique inventions, performing to shift workers, and the legacy of The Ice Man. [[22:06]] [[22:06]] The undeniable inner drive: "I just have to get up on stage." [[25:00]] [[30:40]] Surviving the disastrous shows and navigating the exact moments you want to quit. [[32:30]] [[33:06]] Developing genuine stage confidence: "I ain't scared of the audience." [[36:00]] [[37:00]] Final wrap-up and what I would like to plug. [[38:34]] If you would like to know more about Robin, check out the links to his book, podcast, and creative community: • His book (The Future of Jokes): https://shorturl.at/01QHf • His podcast (Robin Ince's Liberation Conversations): https://shorturl.at/oEx4R • Robin Ince's Patreon: https://tinyurl.com/3ujzv7mk You can follow this podcast on YouTube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU, and Apple Podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E #comedypodcast #standupcomedy #robinince #thecomediansparadise #thefutureofjokes #theinfinitemonkeycage #scienceandcomedy #thefutureofjokes #bibliomaniac #cosmicshambles #rickygervais #bbccomedy #liberationconversations #thefutureofjokes

In this episode of The Comedians paradise, we sit down with a true stalwart of the London open mic circuit: the brilliant and unpredictable John Sharp. With a comedy journey spanning over two decades, John shares his raw, unfiltered perspective on what it really takes to survive on the grassroots circuit without compromising your artistic integrity. Here is an overview of what we discussed: [[00:50]] Starting Out in 2004: Gigs on Malcolm Hardy’s Wibbly Wobbly Boat [[01:21]] [[02:14]] Horrible Histories & Spotting Otis Cannelloni at the King's Head [[03:43]] [[03:43]] Podcast Interruption: The Next David Bowie in the Next Room [[04:13]] [[05:32]] Agency Monopolies: How Avalon and Off The Curb Hog the Circuit [[06:19]] [[06:19]] Industry Gossip: The Rise of Chambers Management & The Comedy Cafe [[07:20]] [[07:20]] Managing Expectations: Being a 65-Year-Old Comic with Low Goals [[08:22]] [[08:22]] Niche vs Mainstream: The Freedom of Saying No to Paid Gigs [[09:00]] [[09:00]] Morals on Stage: Respecting Trans Rights & Avoiding Toxic Line-ups [[10:23]] [[10:23]] Audience Feedback: "Brilliant But Crazy" Onstage Persona [[11:07]] [[11:07]] Mental Health & Physicality: Why 'Crazy' is a Lazy Word in Comedy [[11:58]] [[21:16]] The Andrew Sachs Scandal: Should the producer take the blame? [[23:15]] [[27:23]] How comedy has changed since John started [[29:31]] [[29:31]] Closing thoughts and reflections [[33:86]] If you would like to know more on John Sharp, you can follow his Facebook profile here and see his wonderful ramblings on the circuit:https://www.facebook.com/john.sharp.1048.You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise.

Grab a drink and pull up a chair! In this episode, we sit down for an absolutely mad bar chat with award-winning Kiwi comedian Matt Coombe. Known for his high-octane crowd work, relentless energy, and scene-stealing appearances on hit Kiwi shows like Seven Days, Jono and Ben, and Comedy Central’s Bouncers, Matt brings his signature chaotic vibes straight to the microphone. Here is an overview of what we discussed: [[01:21]] Surprise Guest: Coombe's Flatmate Joins the Podcast [[06:21]] [[06:21]] Small Town Comedy Circuits vs Big Cities & Rugby World Cup Heartbreak [[08:22]] [[08:22]] Commercialising Greatness: Dan Carter Selling Vitamins [[10:00]] [[10:00]] Magic Tricks, OnlyFans, and Why Creators Should Avoid the Platform [[11:28]] [[11:28]] Navigating the New Zealand Comedy Scene & Dodgy Accents [[13:55]] [[13:55]] The Pavlova Debate & Edinburgh Fringe Culinary Surprises [[15:31]] [[15:31]] Festival Obsession: Why Performers Fall in Love with the Fringe [[19:00]] [[19:00]] Post-Fringe Exploitation: Skyrocketing Prices & Shocking Crowds [[21:51]] [[23:00]] Scandal & Backlash: The X Factor New Zealand Cancellation [[28:00]] [[30:46]] High Stakes: The LGB Alliance, Conversion Therapy, and Systemic Homophobia [[35:09]] If you would like to know more on Coombe, you can visit his Instagram at coombegram.You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise.

Yash Bhardwaj is an Indian stand-up comedian, actor, and producer who was based in the UAE before returning to India following a high-profile detention. Here is an overview of what we discussed: [[04:25]] Live Audience Interaction: Fans Join the Podcast [[05:42]] [[05:42]] The Dubai Arrest: How It All Began [[06:30]] [[08:20]] The Viral Instagram Reel That Sparked a National Security Threat [[10:26]] [[10:26]] Confrontation: When the Dubai Police Called [[12:00]] [[14:42]] Debunking Prison Myths and Unspoken Rules [[17:43]] [[17:43]] Psychological Survival: Keeping Your Cool Behind Bars [[21:00]] [[21:00]] The Grim Reality: Who the Real Enemies Are in a Dubai Prison [[24:41]] [[24:41]] Prison Survival Test: Would Tony Robbins or Jay Shetty Last? [[27:07]] [[27:07]] Freedom in Sight: My Final Moments in Detention [[29:00]] [[29:00]] Mentorship Inside: Training New Detainees to Cope [[35:00]] [[36:33]] Crowd Work Consequences: Roasting a Teenager and the School's Complaint [[39:00]] [[40:55]] Making Friends in Prison: Why I Don't Keep in Touch with Them [[44:40]] If you would like to know more on Yash, you can go on his website at https://yashbcomedy.com/ or you can follow him on Tiktok or Instagram at yash_hour. You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise.

In this episode, we talk to West Yorkshire comic Liam Tully, who recently made headlines in Edinburgh Live after joking that playing to an empty room for four days in a row "must be a record". Liam opens up about the brutal reality of the festival circuit, what happens when nobody turns up to your venue at the Rotunda Theatre, and how a single self-deprecating TikTok video flipped his fortune overnight. In a hilarious twist of fate, Liam's empty-room dilemma perfectly mirrored the exact theme of his 2026 Fringe show, "Adult-ish"—a stand-up hour exploring what happens when life's expectations don't quite match up with reality.From dealing with fierce internet trolls (including a memorable run-in with a user calling themselves "Scottish Beyonce") to being secretly photographed by critics in the pub, Liam shares a bittersweet, unfiltered look at surviving a month on stage. We delve into the strange psychology of online antagonism, the overwhelming solidarity found within the comedy community, and the heartwarming moment a fan from Germany came seeking life advice after a show.

🎙️ Welcome to another episode of The Comedian's Paradise! In this episode, we sit down with Barcelona-based stand-up comedian Mariah Girouard to look behind the scenes of her fearless Edinburgh Festival Fringe show, 'Trauma Made Me Hot'. Mariah shares her fascinating journey of moving from Massachusetts to Spain, and how she managed to turn an incredibly dark, real-life survival story—a true crime tale of a man who tried to kill her—into a hilarious, tightly crafted comedy show. We dive into the fine line between true comedic structure and "trauma dumping", the differences between quick-fire American jokes and vulnerable British storytelling, and why shows like 'Fleabag' handle tragedy so perfectly. ✨ Watch/listen now to explore how a comedian transforms real-life horror into award-worthy stage material. If you would like to know more on Mariah, you can go on her Linktree at https://linktr.ee/mariahbgirouard. You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise.

What does it take to master the art of the fool? In this episode, we sit down with award-winning British physical comedian, master mime, and clown David Hoskin.Fresh from acclaimed runs at Soho Theatre and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, David unpacks his time training at the legendary international theatre school, École Philippe Gaulier. We delve into the psychological power of "embracing the flop", the precise mechanics behind his hit comedy-horror show A Haunted House, and how he treats awkwardness on stage as a creative superpower.Whether you're an aspiring performer, a theatre maker, or just a massive fan of surreal alternative comedy, this deep dive offers a fascinating peek behind the curtain of contemporary physical theatre.Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe to the podcast for more exclusive chats with leading creative voices! If you would like to know more on David, go on his website at https://www.davidhoskin.com/.You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #ComedyPodcast #AlternativeComedy #ClownLife #PhysicalComedy #PodcastEpisode #PhysicalTheatre #MimeArtist #PhilippeGaulier #ClowningAround #StageCraft #StartingOverAt30 #CreativeJourney #LateBloomer #EmbraceTheFlop #CreativePivot

Join host Marvin McCarthy on The Comedians Paradise as he chats with stand-up comedian and writer Scott Adams about his hit Edinburgh Fringe show, The Van Man Can!. Discover the reality of juggling a UK delivery driver job with live comedy, mastering crowd work, and building a sustainable career on the British comedy circuit. Tune in for unfiltered backstage stories and sharp stand-up insights from a true festival maverick. Here is an overview of what we discussed: [[02:45]] Being a van driver, public observation, and the reason I had to change my accent as a British 'white van man' [[14:07]] [[14:07]] Bizarre roadside observations and why witnessing a lady eating a bogey is so incredibly weird [[18:00]] [[18:00]] Exploring the most haunted roads and paranormal highway myths across the UK [[19:00]] [[19:00]] Unfiltered delivery horror stories and the absolute worst houses I have ever visited on my route [[26:00]] [[26:00]] The freedom, daily realities, and perks of being your own boss and being self-employed [[31:00]] [[31:00]] My comedy origin story and exactly how I started out on the live UK stand-up circuit [[34:52]] [[34:52]] Entering the lion's den: gigging with big-name headline comics when first starting out in comedy [[39:27]] [[39:27]] An insider look at London's famous Lions Den comedy club and what ultimately happened to the venue [[40:31]] [[40:31]] The truth about controversial 'pay-to-play' comedy gigs and navigating the live gigging circuit [[43:12]] [[43:12]] Navigating the financial realities and industry gatekeeping of the modern comedy scene [[45:42]] If you like what you here from Scott, you can reach him on his Instagram at @scottadams07. You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #standupcomedypodcast #comedypodcast #interviewingcomedians #podcastinterview #standupcomedian #TheComediansParadise #ScottAdams #StandUpComedy #UKComedy #ComedyPodcast #EdFringe #WhiteVanMan

In this interview we chat to the brilliant Sandra Battaglini, she is an award-winning stand-up comic who spearheaded a historic grassroots movement to unionise Canadian comedy, founding CASC(The Canadian Association of Stand-up, Sketch & Improv Comedians) and partnering with Unifor/CFU to secure essential performer benefits. Here is an overview of what we discussed: 00:00 – Introduction to Sandra Battaglini and Her Mission 02:48 – Sandra's Journey into Comedy and Activism 05:46 – The Formation of a Comedian's Association (CASC) 08:53 – Lobbying for Change in the Canadian Comedy Landscape 11:57 – The Impact of Unionization on Canadian Comedians 15:02 – Challenges and Changes in the Canadian Comedy Scene 17:50 – Personal Growth and Business Mindset in Comedy 21:00 – The Future of Comedy and Community Building 24:11 – Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Social Media and Comedy 26:50 – The State of the Canadian Comedy Industry 33:27 – The Struggles of Comedy and Unionization 36:43 – Life Beyond Comedy: Personal Insights 42:14 – The Unexpected Path to Comedy 48:23 – Workplace Dynamics: Comedy vs. Hospitality If you would like to know more on Sandra, you can go on her website at https://www.sandrabattaglini.com/ or follow her on Instagram at sandrabattaglini. You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #standupcomedypodcast #comedypodcast #interviewingcomedians #podcastinterview #standupcomedian

In this episode of The Comedians Paradise, we dive deep into the mind of Edinburgh Fringe legend and Malcolm Hardee Award winner, Mark Dean Quinn. From his legendary cult status as the man who ate a kilogram of cheese on stage at 2:00 AM, to the rules of his chaotic new late-night alternative hit, Mark Dean Quinn Tries to Walk Towards a Flipchart, we explore what it truly means to make maverick comedy.We break down the evolution of audience interaction, why live comedy is shifting away from corporate influences, and the psychological relationship between a comedian and the audience's laughter. Whether you are a comedy nerd curious about the health implications of eating dairy for an hour on stage, or a performer looking to navigate corporate sponsorships without losing your joyful, unexpected spark, this episode is a masterclass in comic originality. Episode Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the Fringe and Mark Dean Quinn 02:57 – The Unique Experience of Live Comedy 05:58 – The Evolution of Comedy and Audience Interaction 09:09 – The Relationship Between Comedy and Laughter 12:06 – The Cheese Show Phenomenon17:59 – Health Implications and the Future of Comedy 25:32 – The Art of Comedy and Performance 28:14 – Navigating Sponsorship and Publicity 29:55 – The Fringe Experience: Joy vs. Corporate Influence 36:05 – Creating Unique Comedy Experiences 39:11 – The Evolution of Comedy Shows 50:04 – Audience Dynamics and Engagement 54:19 – Finding Joy in the Unexpected If you would like to know more about Mark, you can follow his Instagram at mark_dean_quinn. You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #edfringe2026 #markdeanquinn #malcolmhardee #thecomediansparadise #alternativecomedy #edfringe2026 #freefringe #edinburghfringe #livecomedy #podcast #edinburghfringe #edinburghfringecomedyfestival #edinburghfringe

We talk to Josh "Bonesy" Rice is an Adelaide-based comedian, writer, and director who has been a staple of the international Fringe circuit since 2008. Widely known for his work with comedy group DamnitLeanne! and his regular appearances at Adelaide's iconic Rhino Room, he specialises in physical comedy, improvisation, and sketch writing. Here is an overview of what we discussed: [[03:19]] Fringes and Comedy Reviews [[05:49]] [[05:49]] Tall Poppy Syndrome and Cultural Differences [[12:30]] [[12:35]] Why I Like Small Fringes [[16:43]] [[16:43]] Adelaide's Year-Round Comedy Scene [[19:43]] [[19:43]] Flyering Strategies at the Edinburgh Fringe [[24:17]] [[23:00]] Targeted Flyering: Reaching the Right Audience [[23:42]] [[24:17]] Show Breakdown and Creative Process [[33:55]] [[25:40]] Character Spotlight: Lord Sharon [[26:05]] [[34:05]] The Art of Audience Interaction and Crowd Work [[39:00]] [[44:57]] Navigating ADHD as a Comedian [[49:32]] To check out his show Lost in Translation, head to the website: https://lostintranslation.com.au/. For sketches, follow @damnitleanne on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok.. You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #joshjonesyrice #lostintranslationshow #edfringe #adelaidefringe #edfringe2026 #edinburghfringe #comedyfestival #damenitleanne #18yearsoffringefestivals

Professional puppeteer and clown Michelle Stein joins the podcast to chat about her 15-year career and her solo show Always Sometimes Maybe at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. We dive deep into the rich history of alternative theatre, the art of physical comedy, and why the Fringe has shifted from a haven for eccentric artists into an expensive party for the elite. Plus, we debate the merits of Chicago deep-dish pizza and plug The Pieces—a spectacular circus show performing at the Underbelly Circus Hub. If you would like to know more on Michelle, you can go on her website at https://www.michelejoystine.com/ or go to her edinburgh fringe show:https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/always-sometimes-maybe. You can follow this podcast on Youtube at https://bit.ly/41LWDAq, Spotify at https://spoti.fi/3oLrmyU,Apple podcasts at https://apple.co/3LEkr3E and you can support the pod on:https://www.patreon.com/thecomediansparadise. #standupcomedypodcast #comedypodcast #interviewingcomedians #podcastinterview #standupcomedian