Tell us a funny story Wil
What type of comedy do you do?
It is a combination of stand-up comedy, storytelling and the spoken word. I guess I could be labelled alternative.
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HEADLINER: Wil Hodgson
Are you political?
I am more sociological than political. I have produced a lot of anti-racism and homophobia bits over the years but that is more to do with hating bullies than having any political stance.
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Is it true you have a thing about Care Bears?
Yes. I collect Care Bears and have Care Bear tattoos.
What are your influences?
Andy Kaufman is my main comedic influence. But I am also influenced by punk lyricists like Greg Ginn and Shane MacGowan of the Pogues. I like punk poets like John Cooper Clarke, Garry Johnson and Atilla the Stockbroker and filmmakers like Jon Waters and Russ Meyer.
Have you won any awards?
I won the Perrier Newcomer Award when I had not even turned professional. It felt weird and scary in a way. Strangely, I had bet £40 on Alun Cochrane to win it.
Who makes you laugh?
A guy called Tony who drinks in the Three Crowns in Chippenham.
Do you enjoy touring?
Yes. I used to want to be a punk musician and to have that lifestyle. But my musical ability was too inept even for punk rock! Being a comedian has allowed me to visit so many places I would not have gone to. I have gigged in Australia, Europe and the Far East. It feels good to have seen some of the wider world. I enjoy working overseas.
Do you have a favourite audience?
I like any audience that has the patience to listen to the stories and doesn't mind long build-ups and me going off at tangents.
How can we tell stories better?
A good way of improving storytelling is by learning how to tell pub gags that have a long build-up. Some people call them shaggy dog stories. A lot of old school mainstream comedians are very good at these. It is worth watching them to see how they hold an audience. Another big influence on me were the monologues by Ronnie Corbett in his chair on the Two Ronnies.
Any advice for would-be comics?
Don't do it because you want fame, money or sex. Do it because it is what you feel you have to do.
Who else would you recommend?
Jello Biafra is a man who believes passionately in what he's saying and is a mine of facts and political trivia, too. He is a fascinating performer.
What should we expect to get from you at Whitstable?
Stories, a world view and a lack of slickness.
Wil Hodgson is appearing at the Horsebridge Comedy Club Whitstable on Friday, May 25. Bar from 7pm, gig from 8pm. Tickets: £8 (£6 concessions).
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