Liam Withnail joins Pepper&Salt to discuss his upcoming Edinburgh Fringe hour, Big Strong Boy, growing up and making comedy audiences cry.
How would you summarise your show?
When I was 18 years old, I moved from my house in Dagenham to Edinburgh. The only thing is, I didnt tell a single person that I’d left.
Where does comedy fit into the story that you’re telling?
It’s an emotional story about a difficult time in my life, and all my favourite shows talk about big subjects in a funny way. Comedy is so great at making difficult topics accessible.
How would you describe your comedy?
Thoughtful storytelling.
Is there any particular realisation that you yourself had when writing this hour?
That a very specific personal story is more relatable than I ever imagined.
Apart from the obvious, what is the audience reaction that you’re aiming for?
Someone once said to me “I’ve never seen a comedy show like that”. And that’s the best review I’ve ever had.
How does this show relate to your previous hours?
My last show, Chronic Boom, was about receiving and dealing with a diagnosis of a chronic illness. This show is about a very different thing, but once again I’m not afraid to try and make a comedy audience cry!
What was the hardest part about writing this show?
Reckoning with what 18 year old Liam did. Sitting down with my parents and talking to them about what happened.
Is there a part of your show that you find particularly difficult to get through or get a laugh from and if so, what is it?
I found an email I wrote to my parents aged 18. I thought about rewriting it with jokes but that felt cynical. So I read the whole thing in its entirety, it’s very emotional.
” I’m not afraid to try and make a comedy audience cry”
Is there a lesson about growing up that you feel is relevant to or important for younger generations to know and if so what is it?
No one knows what they’re doing. Ever. It feels like everyone else has a plan and is getting on with life whilst you’re wonderingwhat to do – they’re all just winging it the same as you!
Also if you ever need to use a public toilet just open the door very very slowly so if there is someone there that’s forgotten to lock they have time to shout.
How would you define “growing up”/ what does it mean to you?
Not regretting the choice of your younger self, but coming to understand why you made them.
What are you looking forward to about the Edinburgh Fringe?
At any one time there are comedians looking for someone to go for food with, and I’m happy top be that guy, two or three times a day.
Is there anything else that you would like to mention that I haven’t asked or that you haven’t been able to fit into an answer?
I think Metal Gear Solid 2 had a strong claim to being one of the most influential video games of all time.
Pepper & Salt 
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