My Festival: Jonno
The Sheeps sketch troupe comic and Saturday Night Live UK head writer tells us, among other things, about the problem with four-star reviews, and why critics should take heed.
There are thousands of shows in Edinburgh this month. Please tell us why we should comeand see yours.
The only circumstance under which you should come to my show is if you’ve already seen Celya AB, Bella Hull, Ania Magliano, John Tothill, Rose Matafeo, Chris Cantrill, Lorna Rose Treen, Em Humble, and all of Widow’s Bay. Then you come and see old Jonno.
What will we learn from your show that we didn't know before?
Hard to say without knowing what you knew before. Supposing that you don't know whether or not I've struggled with erectile dysfunction or written any Bond themes, then a quick watch of my show is a sure enough way to change that.
Who or what was the biggest inspiration for your show?
The other two Sheeps; Al and Liam. They're my favourite comedians. I only really care if they - plus maybe four others - like what I'm doing. Every joke I write I’m just imagining if it'd make them chuckle.
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What's the best review you've ever had, and the worst?
Both the same review… “Given that the show was packed with fantastic lines and ideas which ought to have brought the house down, it was surprising to find that these jokes just didn’t hit the target… I couldn’t honestly recommend this show unless you plan to steal their material and use it elsewhere.” - one star, ThreeWeeks.
The only reviews that upset me are four-star ones. One or two stars, they were never gonna like the show. Three stars, maybe it was a bad night. But a four-star review suggests they really do get what you're trying to do with the show, and in fact they really liked it, but they didn't love it. And the idea that there are people out there who do understand me and yet don't love me is a lifelong struggle. Reviewers take note: ones, twos, and fives only please!
Who or what are you most excited about seeing this year?
Celya AB.
Who do you most like spending time with in Edinburgh?
Rose Matafeo.
Tell us something about you that would surprise people.
I’m the only person from South Yorkshire to manage both the England Football team and the England Rugby team in a World Cup.
What are the best and worst things that have happened to you at a festival?
In 2014, I had my heart broken and did most shows drunk. In 2018, someone said I was good at acting, and no-one had ever said that before. It made me feel enormous.
Thanks for the interview! We'd like to buy you a drink. Where are we going and what are we drinking?
We're going to the Dagda, my favourite Edinburgh pub. And I will put on my broadest Yorkshire accent, ask them what’s new on tap and then pretend to enjoy whatever they pour. I’d appreciate you doing the same.
Jonno: Here Comes Mr Funny, Monkey Barrel, 7:10pm, until 30 August.
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