In this episode of "Kidding," Reece Kidd chat with British comedian, Elliot Steel. Despite being in his twenties, Elliot boasts the wisdom and wit of a comedy veteran, having started at sixteen.

Elliot's distinctive brand of comedy, dark yet intelligent, has resonated with audiences and critics alike, catapulting him into the spotlight as a voice for those navigating their mid-twenties. His multiple viral clips and impressive performances have solidified his status as a rising star on the UK's comedy circuit.

"The Independent" has marked Elliot as "one to watch," and he received critical acclaim at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival with his show "Merked" in 2019. With appearances on Comedy Central's "Roast Battle" and "Comedy Central at the Comedy Store," as well as contributions to BBC Radio 1's "Comedy Lounge" and BBC Radio 4, Elliot Steel is a dynamic force in the world of comedy.

As Reece delves into the interview, they explore a myriad of topics. They dissect the challenges and opportunities of starting comedy at a young age with a comedy background, touching on the benefits of early confidence and the potential hindrances to long-term growth. The conversation takes an intriguing turn as they discuss nepotism in comedy and privilege, highlighting the importance of working harder to prove doubters wrong.

Elliot shares insights into the unique confidence that private school can instill, offering a glimpse into the world of the comedy elite. They also delve into the art of interviewing and its role in honing comedic skills. The challenges of stand-up comedy, including hosting difficult gigs and learning through act outs, are thoroughly explored.

The discussion turns introspective as they delve into the struggles of writing and self-judgment in comedy, along with the power of incorporating personal challenges into one's material. Elliot Steel also shines a spotlight on fellow comedian Daniel Sloss, whose talent he believes has been overlooked.

Elliot's goes into his martial arts experience, including his "blue belt phase" and the inevitable white belt embarrassments.

Tune in for a chat with a young comedian who is unafraid to tackle dark and intelligent humor while navigating the complexities of the comedy world.

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In this episode of "Kidding," Reece Kidd sits down with the multi-talented comedian, writer, and actor, Andy Haynes, hailing from Seattle, WA. Andy's comedy journey has taken him to some of the most iconic stages and television shows in the industry.

Andy's stand-up comedy has graced the sets of renowned late-night shows like Late Night with Jimmy Fallon and Conan, as well as Comedy Central Presents and the Pete Holmes show. His debut album, "Greatest Hits," released in 2014, has garnered laughs and applause from audiences far and wide.

Beyond stand-up, Andy's versatile talent shines in the world of television and acting. He's been featured in hit shows such as "Another Period" on Comedy Central, "Adam Ruins Everything" on TruTV, and most recently, "Loosely Exactly with Nicole Byer" on MTV. Andy's comedy brilliance extends to his work as a writer, where he served as the head writer for "HOT TAKES with Brandon Wardell" on Comedy Central. He also created and starred in "After Sheldon with Andrew Haynes" on Jash.

But that's not all – Andy is the creative mind behind the animated show "The Champions" for Bleacher Report, which is now entering its second season. His talent has earned him the status of a paid regular at both the Comedy Store in LA and the Comedy Cellar in NYC, two of the most prestigious comedy venues in the world.

Throughout the episode, Reece and Andy delve into a wide array of topics. From the nuances of Northern Irish politics to the wild tales of Liam Neeson, they touch on mental health in comedy. Andy shares his experiences performing comedy at college shows and the adjustments required for different types of comedy performances. They also explore the transient nature of fame and the significance of forging ambitious friendships in the comedy world.

Andy provides insights into his writing process and the business side of comedy, shedding light on the traits that make a comedian truly exceptional. Andy discusses his practical joke about going to Ukraine.

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Reece Kidd welcomes a true luminary of the comedy world, Steve Hall. Known for his exceptional stand-up, writing, and legendary sketch group We Are Klang, Steve is a comedic force to be reckoned with.

Steve's career has been nothing short of meteoric, with notable appearances alongside comedy giants like Lee Mack, Bill Burr, and most significantly, Russell Howard. For Russell, he not only opened shows but was a vital part of six different tours, including jaw-dropping venues like Wembley Arena, the O2, and the illustrious Royal Albert Hall. His Edinburgh Festival shows have consistently received critical acclaim, with Metro describing his phrasing as "joyous" and his storytelling as "tales of hilarious woe."

In 2022, Steve embarked on a highly successful joint-headline tour with his Russell Howard Hour co-writer, Steve Williams. The duo has further tour dates lined up for late 2023. Adding to his impressive portfolio, Steve is set to release a filmed show in collaboration with the prestigious comedy production company Go Faster Stripe.

Steve's comedic prowess extends beyond the stage; he was the first guest stand-up on Russell Howard's Good News (BBC) and went on to write for six series of that show. He also contributed his wit to six series of The Russell Howard Hour (Sky) and has penned humor for numerous comedians on Mock The Week, as well as shows like A League of Their Own and The Now Show. You can catch him as a regular guest on The Frank Skinner Show on Absolute Radio and as a participant in programs like The Rest is History, Act Your Age, and My Teenage Diary for BBC Radio 4.

Steve's comedy journey includes being a crucial part of the legendary sketch group We Are Klang, alongside Greg Davies and Marek Larwood. The group was known for its "stupid comedy done with great intelligence" (The Times), and Steve wrote and starred in their sitcom series for BBC 3 in 2009. We Are Klang was nominated for the Edinburgh Comedy Award for Best Show in 2006 and the Barry Award at the 2007 Melbourne Comedy Festival.

As the conversation unfolds, Steve delves into the journey of We Are Klang, a riotous "fuck about tour," and why reviews aren't the be-all and end-all of comedy. He highlights the beauty of organic creativity and collaboration, finding space for a joke, and his role as a comedy creative consultant.

Join Reece and Steve for an hour filled with laughter, wisdom, and a peek into the intriguing world of a comedy veteran. This episode is a captivating blend of comedic anecdotes, insider insights, and the contagious joy of making people laugh.

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In the 20th episode of Kidding, Reece Kidd is in conversation with the captivating Irish comedian Jack Hester, who brings the essence of the traditional Gaelic Seanchai, the revered storyteller, to the modern stage.

Jack Hester is a gong show maestro, emerging victorious at comedy hotspots like the Comedy Store, Up the Creek, the Frog and Bucket, and Top Secret. With a dynamic and high-energy performance style, Jack's humor often draws comparisons to the legendary Dave Allen.

As a child, Jack harbored dreams of becoming the Taoiseach (Prime Minister of Ireland), aspiring to inspire and uplift his community. However, he recognized the abundance of jesters in politics and chose a different path—comedy. This decision allowed him to traverse the globe, sharing tales and laughter to lift spirits, akin to the role of a Seanchai.

In this episode, Jack candidly shares his journey, from swiftly entering the comedy scene to contemplating the profundities of Steve Jobs' calligraphy speech. He reflects on his decision to pick comedy over politics and delves into the intricate connection between stand-up and public speaking.

Jack and Reece explore the world of bringer gigs, the guilt that sometimes accompanies comedy, and the art of bouncing back from a bad set. Jack recalls a gig that was both nightmarish and transformational, shedding light on the unexpected benefits of seemingly disastrous performances.

Energetic performances are Jack's forte, and he reveals the techniques and acting principles he employs to engage the audience deeply. Gong shows and club comedy dynamics, the nuances of matching audience energy, and the unique challenges of outdoor venues come under the spotlight as well.

The episode meanders through intriguing discussions, touching on topics as diverse as watching the camera during procedures, the power of daydreaming during mundane tasks, and the transformative boot camp that is the Edinburgh Fringe. Jack even offers his colorful perspective on Brexit in a classic Irish rant.

With insights into social media strategy and musings on the balance between career stability and freedom, this episode encapsulates the essence of Jack's comedic philosophy. As Jack's vibrant storytelling unfolds, listeners are in for an hour of laughter, wisdom, and a genuine peek into the life and mind of a modern-day Seanchai.

Join Reece and Jack for an entertaining and enlightening conversation that underscores the power of comedy to connect, inspire, and heal.

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In the eighteenth episode of Kidding, Reece Kidd interviews Peter Flanagan.

Peter Flanagan, has not just made a mark but etched himself into the world of comedy with his impeccable timing and cool, calm delivery. He's graced some of the world's most renowned comedy platforms, from London’s Comedy Store to Comedy Lounge in Australia and even the Laughter Factory in Dubai. Back home in Dublin, he's not just a regular at the Laughter Lounge, but his insights and wit have found their way onto national TV and radio programs, notably Virgin Media’s the Tonight Show and Newstalk’s the Hard Shoulder.

Known for his whip-smart and no-holds-barred approach, Peter's prowess isn't limited to the stage. He's penned articles for the Irish Times and the Irish Independent and has also written content for global giants like Sky, BBC, and Comedy Central UK.

In this enlightening episode, Peter takes us through the hardships of living frugally in London and delves into the universal dread every comedian has faced at some point - stage fright. Peter discuss the nuances of kickstarting a comedy career across different cities and reminisce about the early days of starting out in comedy.

Peter, with his characteristic wit, shares tales of 'Battle horses in Ireland' and provides invaluable insights into the persistence required in journalism. Peter discusses the unique challenges of juggling a day job with stand-up and the unmatched euphoria following a successful performance.

Peter offers a fresh perspective on MCing, the evolution of the comedy industry, and the art of building a loyal and creative audience. The conversation winds down with hints about a future sitcom Peter has in the works.

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Welcome to episode seventeen of Kidding, hosted by the up-and-coming comedian Reece Kidd. In this special installment, Reece has the honor of interviewing the UK Comics' Comic 2022 Best Act, Mark Simmons, a comic who has redefined the realm of one-liner comedy.

Known for his exceptional one-liners, Mark made waves in Edinburgh in 2017 by earning a spot in Dave's Best Joke of The Fringe. His solo shows at the festival, "One-Linerer" and "One-Linererer," were sell-out hits and cemented his reputation as a "Master of one-liners" (one4review ★★★★★).

Having reached the finals in numerous comedy competitions, Mark has become a sought-after name across the UK's top comedy clubs. He's had the opportunity to support legendary comedians like Seann Walsh, Rob Beckett, Rob Brydon, Michael McIntyre, Sean Lock, and Jack Dee on their national tours.

In this candid conversation, Mark opens up about his comedic journey, beginning with his start in comedy and how he overcame the fear of public speaking. He shares insights into enjoying shows in the moment, changing comedic style, and the unique experience of performing at nudist comedy gigs. The conversation also explores the intricacies of dealing with hecklers, the dynamics of delivering one-liners in small rooms, and navigating awkward audience interactions.

Mark delves into the realities of working multiple jobs in comedy and the power of speaking desires into existence. He reflects on the challenges of starting comedy in the modern era, reveals a bit that died on stage, shares anecdotes about his suspicious uncle, and talks about his family's love for awkward pranks.

The episode wraps up with an engaging discussion on perfectionism, offering a glimpse into the mind of a comedian constantly striving for excellence. Throughout, Mark's subtle and well-paced delivery shines, as described by Bruce Dessau of Beyond The Joke.

Whether you're an aspiring comedian or a lover of one-liners, this episode promises a delightful mix of wisdom, wit, and behind-the-scenes insights from one of the UK's most beloved comedic talents. Join Reece and Mark for a conversation filled with laughs, learning, and a healthy dose of the unexpected.

Marks Instagram
Marks website

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Episode 16: Breaking Boundaries and Shaping Comedy with Dane Baptiste

On the sixteenth episode of Kidding, Reece Kidd sits down with the exceptional Dane Baptiste, a comedian known for his original and provocative style. Making history as the first Black British act to be nominated for a comedy award at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2014, Dane has cemented his position as one of the most dynamic performers in the industry.

Born and raised in London, Dane has achieved remarkable success with his debut stand-up show "Citizen Dane," leading to sold-out runs at London’s Soho Theatre. His subsequent shows, including "Reasonable Doubts" and "G.O.D. (Gold. Oil. Drugs)", were met with critical acclaim, propelling Dane onto the world stage with a vast tour covering numerous territories.

His television appearances span an impressive array of platforms such as Live at the Apollo (BBC Two), Mock the Week (BBC Two), 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown (Channel 4), and The Stand Up Sketch Show (ITV2). Dane is also the creator, writer, and star of the first black sitcom commissioned by the BBC in 20 years, "Sunny D" (BBC Three/One), and hosts his own successful podcast "Dane Baptiste Questions Everything".

In this episode, Dane discusses his journey into comedy, the dynamics of comedy and HR, and the challenges of representation in the comedy scene. He talks about the power of art, the necessity to change the comedy landscape, and the importance of defining personal success. Reece and Dane also delve into the themes of emotional control, the role of observation in comedy, and the limitations and liberties of free speech.

The conversation uncovers Dane’s frustrations with the comedy industry, his encounters with trolls, and the crucial role of honesty in his comedic work.

This episode provides a fresh perspective on comedy from one of its most pioneering voices, promising thought-provoking discussions, inspiring insights, and, of course, plenty of laughs. Listen in as Reece and Dane dive deep into the intricacies and challenges of the comedy world, highlighting the transformative power of humor along the way.

Dane's instagram

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Reece Kidd interviews comedian Finlay Christie in the fifteenth episode of Kidding.

Finlay Christie is the youngest ever winner of the distinguished So You Think You’re Funny competition at 19, Finlay follows in the comedic lineage of Peter Kay, Lee Mack, and Sarah Millican. Three years later, his debut Edinburgh show “OK Zoomer” was nominated for NextUp’s “Best Show” award, earning him a reputation from Chortle as "the voice of his generation."

With a YouTube channel boasting over 300k subscribers and a notable presence on TikTok, Finlay has successfully bridged the gap between stand-up comedy and digital content creation. His online series, such as "When they go to a foreign country in a Hollywood film" and "Asking black and white people the same questions about…", have garnered millions of views and made him a prominent figure in the digital comedy space.

Beyond his digital success, Finlay has appeared on a variety of television platforms including 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown (Channel 4), The Stand-Up Sketch Show (ITV2), The BBC New Comedy Awards, Get Off My Phone! (Dave), and Jokes Only An AI Can Tell (Channel 4). He has also graced the stage at Montreal’s Just For Laughs festival and performed across Europe for the Comedy Store.

This episode delves into Finlay's early start in comedy, from the initial stages of starting in comedy to encountering the brutal realities of open mics, the challenges of going viral, and the importance of embracing cultural differences. Reece and Finlay discuss the value of creativity within constraints and share insights into preparing for major comedy events like the Edinburgh show. They also touch on content creation strategies, offer advice on pacing oneself in the industry, and look forward to Finlay's upcoming stand-up special Ok Zoomer.

They also discuss a range of offbeat topics, such as North Korea boat tours, influencer culture, barbers.

Finlay's Instagram

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