Archie Maddocks: The Edinburgh Interviews 2018
© Tom Leishman
Who? Archie Maddocks
What? Matchstick
Where? Just the Tonic at The Mash House (venue 288)
When? 13:55
Are you prepared for what this year’s Edinburgh Fringe has in store for you?
I mean, yes and no. I go every year, so I know what’s in store, but you can never really prepare in that sense for the festival. Anything and everything can happen, it’s a hurricane of opportunity and emotion which constantly surprises you. So in that sense, I’m ready, because I know there’s going to be some stuff come up that I would never have expected.
What is the premise of your Edinburgh show this year?
It’s about me, the things I think I unwittingly benefit from which in turn make society both a better and worse place. Or, to put it another way, it’s an idiot trying to explore the concept of nuance.
What was the biggest obstacle you face(d) while putting this show together?
I think myself, how far I’m willing to push things, how willing I am to make myself feel uncomfortable to explore something meaningful. Past years, I’ve told silly stories that I loved telling, but this year my routines actually mean something. Plus, the end of the show (which I won’t spoil) is about something enormously tragic that I feel a massive sense of responsibility in talking about. So I think this year it’s mainly been about me getting over the fear.
Who would most enjoy your show?
Honestly, there’s something in this show for everyone. There’s some stupid stories, dirty stuff, lacerating opinionative social commentary (how fucking arrogant does that sound!?) and some pathos (I have gone peak arrogant dickhead in this bit, I am so sorry). Probably not best if you want a simple, light hour of comedy.
Do you have any other Edinburgh show recommendations?
Sindhu Vee is great. Tim Renkow is one of my favourites. I would say give a chance to someone you’ve not seen or heard of. Go see something different too. I once saw a cabaret where I watched a man ram his arm up his batty up to the elbow. I’m not saying I enjoyed that, but it was definitely an experience. And me, please. I should recommend myself, or is that too needy? I don’t care if it is, please come.
What is your favourite thing about Edinburgh as a city?
I love the layers and the gothic mysticism of the city (which you don’t really take in during the festival). It’s such a wonderful city to walk around and get lost in. I could see myself living there if the climate was better.
What are your plans for after the festival?
I’m doing a lot of TV writing stuff, so I’ll have to recalibrate and get back into that pretty sharpish. But, before that, I’m going to Tobago on holiday where I can sit on a beach for ten days, question every single one of my life decisions to date and be chastised by my family for not having a proper job. That’s my standard post Edinburgh come-down.