Could you first introduce yourself to the reader?
My name is Sikisa. I am a stand up comedian and have been performing for nearly 9 years. I have been a finalist in the BBC New Comedy Awards and have appeared on several TV shows and podcasts such as Live At The Apollo; Stand Up Sketch Show; Off Menu.
How would you describe your show?
My show is a funny show discussing a recent discovery about myself which has led me to reflect on my life and the things that have led me to this point.
What is your favourite part of your show?
There’s two stories I tell which I really enjoy because they are relatable but also funny and also there’s a surprise at the end – and who doesn’t love surprises.
If your show had a theme song, what would it be and why?
Beyonce’s Alien Superstar – because despite the obstacles in my life, I have always excelled, and I’ve realised the beauty of my own uniqueness.
What is one thing you hope audiences will take away from your show?
I would hopefully like the audience to see a different side to me and also see how I have grown as a comedian since I was last at the Fringe. I hope people leave the show feeling uplifted and they have learnt something about me, but also perhaps themselves.
If you could add a surprise celebrity cameo to your show, who would it be and why?
Oh this is a tough one but it probably be Beyonce singing Papa Roach’s Last Resort. I think it sums up both sides of my personality and what this show represents.
Why do you want to perform at Edinburgh Festival Fringe?
I wanted to perform at the Edinburgh Fringe this year because I really wanted to push myself as a writer and performer. I had so much time to build up my debut hour and for me to write a show in less than a year has been a challenge but also a great learning curve.
What differentiates it from other festivals?
Obviously the Fringe is more intense. It’s one of the biggest arts festivals and you realise why when you are there. There is so much going on that you feel like the rest of the world is non-existent. It’s such a great atmosphere though so have so much art happening in one place for a whole month – there’s nothing like it.
What is one thing you would change about the Edinburgh Festival Fringe?
I probably wouldn’t have it for a full month – probably 2 ½ weeks maximum. It’s quite costly as well so if I won’t the lottery I would obtain a building and allow performers to reside there for free because people don’t realise how much putting on a Fringe show really costs especially if you are in a paid venue.
What is your favourite thing about performing for a live audience?
There is an energy that I love when I’m performing for a live audience. You get their honest reaction and when the audience is having a great time the show feels like a party.
What is the strangest thing that has ever happened to you while performing?
Obviously people get heckled. But the weirdest thing that’s happened whilst I have been performing is that a physical fight has broken out on stage and I didn’t want to draw attention to it but also I wanted to watch. It was so surreal having these two men be thrown out during my set whilst I am talking about chicken.
What's the most challenging or unconventional venue you've ever performed in, and how did it impact the overall experience?
Festival gigs I have found at time to be difficult because they are normally in tents and you can’t hear the laughter because it just goes up to the air so you end up panicking that the audience are not laughing but they are still fun though.
Is there a piece of feedback you've received from an audience member or critic after a performance that’s stuck with you?
I’ve had older white men tell me that I should not make sexual jokes and I should stick to talking about race
What is your favourite thing to do in Edinburgh when you're not performing? How do you relax and look after your mental health?
I like to go to restaurants and treat myself to a nice meal. There are so many good food places in Edinburgh. Also it’s nice to visit some of the cultural aspects of Edinburgh like the museums.
Is there a show you’re excited to see when you’re up there?
I love Rueben Kaye and cannot wait to see his show – he is a true entertainer and always puts on a great show. Also excited to see Mary O’Connell and Janine Harouni as well as Huge Davies, Josh Jones and Alison Splittle.
What is one piece of advice you’d give to someone thinking about taking a show up to Edinburgh? If you’ve never been before, what would you say has been (potentially) the most useful?
Do your research! I would also suggest if someone is thinking of doing a full hour show to go up a year before and do some scouting. It’s important to understand how the Fringe works in terms of venues, time slots, audiences and locations. Otherwise, I think it would be a massive shock for people.
When and where can people see your show?
You can see my show every day from 2 – 27th August 2023 (not 16th or 21st) at Monkey Barrel 4 at 7.50pm
And where can people find you online?
You can follow me on Instagram on Sikisa_aka_Twix or on twitter @Sikisacomedy
Or I have a website: www.sikisacomedy.com
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