Could you first introduce to the reader?
Ahoy! I’m Jamie, a writer, director and improviser from Dublin who likes to tell goofy hopefully moving stories.
How would you describe The Last Incel?
The Last Incel is a dark satire and farce that dismantles Incel culture through comedy. Incels are an online movement of men who blame women and society for keeping sex from them. The show follows one of their members having a one-night stand with a woman who then invades their group chat.
What is your favourite part of your show?
The show has a few dance numbers to allow the incels to fully express their inner emotional turmoil. There is one in particular that focuses on their sexual frustration that I love.
Are there any particular themes or messages you hope the audience takes away from your performance?
Our main goal was to turn a dark subject into cathartic comedy, but we also wanted to explore the loneliness and struggles these men have faced and how this has led to their isolation and radicalisation.
What is your favourite thing to do in Edinburgh when you're not performing? How do you relax and look after your mental health?
Probably to go browse in a bookshop and read random first pages of books. Shout out to Transreal where I bought “A Prayer for the Crown-Shy” last year when I very much needed a lovely escape.
What is one piece of advice you’d give to someone thinking about taking a show up to Edinburgh?
You have to stage this show for a month so make sure you love this show and don’t lose sight of the joy of getting to share your work with others.
What is one thing you would change about the Edinburgh Festival Fringe?
The cost of bringing a show over is pretty wild and feels like it’s reaching a point that is unsustainable, especially for new artists.
How has your background, upbringing and education had an impact on your artistic career?
I went to an all-boys Catholic school here in Dublin so had some first-hand experience of toxic male spaces and how they can warp and alienate young men.
Can you describe your creative process and how you develop your ideas into a full-fledged performance?
I love writing comedy but also have a background in improv so try to foster a very collaborative rehearsal environment that allows the show to change and grow into its best self.
What is your favourite thing about performing for a live audience?
Laughter. There is nothing better than a room full of strangers sharing that moment together.
What is the strangest thing that has ever happened to you while performing?
While performing our show Coffee Kid at Edinburgh Fringe last year we lost sound at one point. I initially tried to shout the audio cues from the back of the room but we ultimately had to pause the show to fix the issue because shouting “gunshot” was very underwhelming.
Is there a show you’re excited to see when you’re up there?
I saw Stamptown twice last year and will definitely be back to see it again. They are all pushing the boundaries of what is possible in live comedy in exciting and intimidating ways
When and where can people see your show?
Underbelly, Bristo Square Jersey, 31 July – 25 Aug 2024 (not 12), 17:30 – 18:30
And where can people find you online?
@thelastincelplay on Instagram and @lastincelplay on Twitter
The Last Incel is performing at Underbelly, Bristo Square Jersey, 31 July – 25 Aug 2024 (not 12), 17:30 – 18:30. Tickets and more info here.
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