The Character of Comedy

Jim Judges chats with comedian and actor Alexis Dubus, the sharp mind behind the suave, sardonic and very popular comedy character Marcel Lucont. They talk costume, attitude, material and the comic power of silence, with a nod to the cult classic poem “Wine in a Can".Plus, there’s a glimpse of his other creation, writer, philosopher and delightfully absurd Charles Quarterman.Vous êtes très welcome – enjoy!alexisdubus.commarcellucont.comMarcel Lucont's Whine List (podcast)alexisdubus.co.uk (photography)

In this episode of The Character of Comedy, comedian and comedy researcher Jim Judges talks to actor and comedian Casey Filips, the man behind Tobias Finlay-Fraser, a gloriously pompous British actor who claims to be “the greatest of his generation”.Casey explains how the character emerged from a real-life meltdown at Philippe Gaulier’s clown school, and how it evolved into a show packed with satire, clowning, and improvised chaos. Jim and Casey explore the influences behind the act, from Bean to Baron Cohen, and discuss what makes Tobias both ridiculous and oddly relatable.We also hear about Casey’s hit solo show Virtuoso, fresh from rave reviews at the Adelaide and Melbourne Fringe, and now heading to the 2025 Edinburgh Fringe.See ⁠Virtuoso at the 2025 Edinburgh Fringe⁠Find out more: ⁠www.caseyfilips.com⁠The host, Jim Judges, is also appearing at the Fringe from 18 to 24 August in his solo character comedy show:⁠Accident Avoidance Training for Cutlery Users⁠

In this episode, we hear from comedian and "rising star" Andy Barr about how he got started, his on-stage journey, and the making of his Leicester Comedy Festival award-nominated show, which is set for a great reception at the Edinburgh Fringe and beyond. Andy shares insights into his comedic persona – a heightened version of himself, characterised by a distinct style, language, and philosophy of comedy. We also discuss his writing process and other creative projects he's been working on.Edinburgh show 2025Andy Barr: The Hotly Anticipated 4th Debut Hour from Rising Star, Andy Barr [see show listing here]Follow AndyInstagram @catballbagTikTok @barrstardWebsite https://andybarrcomedy.com/

In this episode Jim Judges talks with comedian Jack Kirwan to explore his journey in stand-up and the creation of his wildly popular character, Gary Powndland. Jack shares insights into the success of his viral online videos and the triumph of his sell-out Gary Powndland & Friends tour, which captivated audiences across the Midlands and beyond. A must-listen for fans of comedy, stand-up, and the enchanting craft of character comedy.

In this episode Jim Judges sits down with Damon Conlan comedy magician or Jocular Prestidigitator as he’s known. Damon’s act blends magic and comedy with ease, bridging the boundaries between stand-up, character comedy, and illusion. Together, Jim and Damon delve into the playful nature of magic, discussing the “play frame” and how magic draws audiences into a world where laughter, wonder, and surprise coexist. And of course, they tackle the age-old question: which flavour of crisps is truly the most magical? To find out more about Damon, visit [https://www.damonconlan.co.uk/]

In this episode of The Character of Comedy, Jim Judges chats with Jerry Bakewell: Britain’s most unsuccessful Mexican wrestler and Europe’s heaviest light entertainer. A wrestler, comedian, and all-round friendly chap, Jerry shares his unique journey from the ring to the comedy stage. Hear about his experiences, insights, and motivations, along with valuable tips for fans and aspiring performers. Packed with laughter, ideas and inspiration, this episode brings Jerry’s comedic persona to life.

In this episode, comedian and comedy researcher Jim Judges talks to actor, comedian, and community arts director and award winner Janice Connolly. Janice has lots to share from her early beginnings in pub theatre and her extensive experience as a founder and director of the Birmingham-based Women and Theatre community arts group. She has also made numerous appearances on television, including Phoenix Nights, Coronation Street and Doctors. Additionally, she is a highly successful stand-up comedian, performing as the incredibly funny, warm and playful character Barbara Nice. There really is something for everyone in this super insightful episode of the Character of Comedy. [see www.mrsbarbaranice.com]

In this episode comedian and comedy researcher Jim Judges talks to Birmingham based character comedian Richard Dadd. Richard is a podcaster*, comedian, former breaking talent award nominee and host of the Late Night Sweet Shop, a monthly alternative comedy night. He has lots of great ideas and reflections on character comedy, so I hope you enjoy listening to this episode as much as I did making it. * Podcast: "Tea with the Devil" in collaboration with with Eric Rushton

In this episode Jim Judges talks to character comedian, playwright and actor Michael Hughes. In addition to hearing about his experience and how he got started in comedy we consider some of the differences between acting and stand-up character comedy. We hear all about how Michael achieved five star reviews in 2023 with his Edinburgh Fringe show "The Last Bantam" as well as considering tips for any budding character acts.

In this exciting and insightful episode Jim Judges interviews Benjamin Bankole Bello, the comedian behind character and self-declared leader of the Lafta Republic, President Obonjo. This was recorded live at the Edinburgh Fringe 2023. Thanks to the City Cafe and Lucy and Robyn from the Podcast Hour who helped make it happen.

In this episode host Jim Judges speaks to the super funny character comedian Rosalie Minnitt. We hear all about Rosalie's background and experience in comedy from improv, stand-up and other on-stage antics. We also find out about her first solo show "Clementine" and Rosalie's thoughts on stand-up, character comedy, Sylvanian Families, eating peas and so much more! 'Rosalie Minnitt: Clementine' is appearing at the Edinburgh Fringe at 2:25pm August 3-13th, 15-27th Underbelly Cowgate. Get there if you can; see ⁠EdFringe⁠ for more details.

In this episode host Jim Judges speaks to the wonderfully talented character comedian, improv artist, puppeteer and comedy tutor Charlie Vero-Martin. We hear how Charlie got started in the world of comedy and how her experience across different genres and styles of comedy and stand-up has resulted in awards, five star reviews and has led to the creation of her latest fun-packed Fringe sketch show 'Picnic'. We hear about the creation of characters from the outside in and the inside out and get to meet Charlie's many varied and hilarious personas. 'Picnic' is on at the Bread & Roses London July 26th and also at the Edinburgh Fringe August 3-27th (not 14th) 6:55pm Underbelly Cowgate. See: www.charlieveromartin.com to find out more.

In this episode Jim Judges speaks to comedian, actor and writer Logan Murray. He is the author of the popular guide "Get Started in Stand-Up Comedy" and runs comedy performance and writing workshops in the UK and beyond. He has also collaborated with Jerry Sadowitz in the "Bib and Bob" show and appeared on television in many shows including Grange Hill, Peep Show, People Like Us and Karaoke Fish Tank. He is well known for his long-running comedy character, alter-ego, Ronnie Rigsby; described as a "cynical, foul-mouthed washed-up variety act from hell with at least fifty years at the bottom end of showbiz and nothing to show for it but utter contempt"! Welcome to this super interesting podcast that takes us form the early 1980s to present day with plenty of reflections on the world of entertainment, stand-up and the character of comedy.

In this episode comedian and comedy researcher Jim Judges speaks to Steve Lee about his comedy character and creation Mad Ron. He's described as 'The Third Hardest Man in Uxbridge' and he's also a multi award winning act earning accolades, laughter and appreciation wherever he performs. In this super insightful episode we find out how Steve got started in comedy, we hear about his writing process and also some of Steve's ideas on what it takes to be successful at stand-up character comedy and in longer Fringe shows. Steve knows what he's talking about, because with almost 1000 gigs under his belt, this is Crime School meets the university of comedy and today the lesson is how to keep them laughing and coming back for more! See www.madroncomedy.com and www.arushoflaughter.co.uk/mad-ron/ Also do not miss the London preview of Crime School 27th May Angel Comedy Club And in August Crime School at Edinburgh Fringe 2023

In this episode we hear from Kev F Sutherland the comedian behind The Scottish Falsetto Sock Puppet Theatre. After hearing briefly from the socks we hear from performer, writer and comic strip artist Kev. We learn about his previous career from the early days of stand-up to performing with the Socks in his unique and very funny Sock Puppet Theatre and everything else in between. It's a bumper episode and is ideal for anyone with an interest in the characters and the people behind the world of live stand-up comedy. Please note the main interview finishes at 55 minutes there is then an extra 10 minutes of bonus discussion about the world of stand-up comedy, venues, personas and more that was too good to edit out! For more information about the Socks please see: scottishfalsettosocks.com and Kev F Sutherland (Comic Artist): kevfcomicartist.com For more information about Jim Judges his writing, character comedy and research please see here: Writing | Jim Judges (safecutlery.com)

First up, and what a great start, comedian Jim Judges meets Steve Jameson who performs as the comedy character Sol Bernstein (“The world’s oldest living Jewish Comedian”). The character Sol has worked with them all: Elvis Presley, the Beatles, The Rat Pack, Lenny Bruce, Jack Benny, Tommy Cooper and Eddie Large. From The London Palladium, Caesars Palace Las Vegas, and Scunthorpe Baths, he's performed all over the world! In this episode we hear about Steve Jameson the comedian behind the mask and get to hear about his background and journey to where he is today as well as finding out about the experiences, motivations and methods behind this highly entertaining comedy character.