2016's 7th best-reviewed comedian Pierre Novellie talks about bringing his new show to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival

Name: Pierre Novellie
Name of Edinburgh show: See Novellie, Hear Novellie, Speak Novellie
Venue: Pleasance Upstairs
Performance time: 7.15pm
Show length:1 hour
Ticket price: £12 (£10 concession, £8 preview)

Can you tell me a little bit about yourself and your performing background?
Originally I am from South Africa, but I was raised on the Isle of Man. I’ve been doing stand up since the first year of university where, later, I was a member of the Cambridge Footlights. Apparently this guarantees me money and fame but I think I must’ve missed that meeting. Anyway, since then I’ve been doing the circuit professionally, a bit of TV and radio here and there, that sort of thing.

Tell me about your show, what it is all about?
It’s satire for people without a team. It’s my attempt to express my political homelessness and denounce the idea of teams generally.

How long have you been working on this show and what is it that makes it relevant to audiences in 2018?
I’ve been working on it for a year. It’s relevant as it concerns political teams and our country and the world has not been this divided for many decades – and it’s getting worse.

Do you have any top tips for surviving the Edinburgh Fringe Festival – both for performers and visitors to the event?
Performers just need to ensure they avoid Edinburgh’s scummier landlords, if they can. Visitors: plan your days and book in advance!

What has been the funniest or most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to you on stage?
Probably dying on my hole in Hull so badly I could hear the ice in people’s drinks? I have never done well in Hull.

Who are your biggest inspirations in the industry and why?
Basically anyone who became incredibly skilled or successful only after years of strife – it’s not inspiring to soldier on if you’re instantly famous and rich.

Do you have any pre-show rituals?
You can’t have anything in your pockets.

What other acts are you looking forward to seeing at Edinburgh Fringe?
Ciaran Dowd, Tom Houghton, Lulu Popplewell, Glenn Moore, Ed Night, Sarah Keyworth, Catherine Bohart, Fin Taylor

Why do you think people should come and see your show over the thousands of others on at the fringe?
Last year my show was the 7th best-reviewed comedy show of the whole festival, so at least see me seventh.

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