My first glimpse of Stephen K Amos was during a memorable appearance at Stagetime in 2005, when he delighted the audience as he blasted through a performance with breathtaking energy. In 2006 Stephen returned to Melbourne for a Melbourne Comedy Festival run so successful that it not only sold out, but it was also moved to a larger venue. Melbourne punters who haven’t had an opportunity to catch him in full swing as yet have an opportunity to see his new show during this year’s Melbourne Fringe Festival. Stephen was kind enough to answer a few questions for us here at The Groggy Squirrel.
How did you get into comedy?
I got into comedy by pure chance. Always the practical joker and the kid never paying attention at school. After years of playing the ‘fool’, I met someone who suggested I channel the energy into comedy. A bulb lit over my head and I went for it.
In 2004 you appeared into the West End/Edinburgh production of “One Flew Over The Cuckoos Nest”. Is serious theatre something you’d like to do more of? How does it compare to performing comedy?
I would love to be doing more serious parts as a challenge to myself. Comedy is very different, it’s my own words and thoughts and basically an extension of myself, with the primary goal to make people laugh and hopefully think.
You had a celebrated run during the Melbourne Comedy Festival this year. Did you enjoy the experience?
I absolutely loved the MCC this year making my solo show debut. Everyone was so welcoming and supportive and the crowds just kept coming. mmm
The Melbourne Fringe traditionally caters to less established artists. What brings you to the festival?
I just wanted to get a low-key feel for the vibe that is the Australian Arts without the razzamatazz and pressure that can accompany a huge festival.
What can we expect from your Melbourne Fringe show?
I will be doing a variation of the show I took up to the MCC and also use the opportunity to experiment with some ideas. I have just finished the Edinburgh and South African festivals so lots of ideas are swirling around in my head.
How do Australian comedy audiences compare with those in the UK?
There are similarities between all audiences but when a joke works its awesome, wherever you are. I know the UK and all the politics so I have to work a little harder here to ensure what I am talking about translates.
You’re well known for entering into exchanges with audience members. Has anyone ever gotten upset? At what point do you know you’ve taken a joke too far?
A bit of audience banter seems to relax the entire audience. You can normally tell if people don’t want to get involved. They either sit at the back or fix you a steely glare, that’s if they’re not staring at the ground!
Who do you look up to in comedy?
Richard Pryor is up there and I am constantly motivated by the huge hitters on the circuit today. There is no one in particular, I had never been to a comedy club before I started.
Is comedy art?
Comedy is definitely an art form. You cant learn how to be funny but you can learn owning the stage, finding your voice, a rhythm of speech and all the subtle things that make a good show.
Many thanks to Stephen K Amos