Arts > Interviews
Alasdair Beckett- King
Norwich Theatre Playhouse
30/04/24
I don’t know about you, but I truly believe that laughter is the best medicine- it releases endorphins, helps lessen stress and provides us with that pop of positivity we all need in a world which can seem too dark at times!
Since March, Comedian Alasdair Beckett- King has brought his incredible show, ‘Nevermore’, across the UK, providing audiences with hilarious humour and side- splitting jokes. Tomorrow (30th April) , Alasdair will be bringing ‘Nevermore’ to the Norwich Playhouse, promising audiences a night of wacky and witty comedy!
Last week, I caught up with Alasdair to discover how his journey as a Comedian began, his creative comedic process, as well as his plans for the rest of the year (including learning some new sporting tricks!).
When did your journey as a comedian begin?
I always wanted to be a famous film director like Orson Welles. But after many years of failing to make Citizen Kane, I became a stand up comedian. Out of spite, mostly. Luckily, stand up comedy turned out to be loads of fun, and a lot cheaper than making films.
How would you describe your material?
I write stand up comedy from the point of view of a Viking who works in I.T.
Where do you look for inspiration for your comedic material?
Inspiration could come from anywhere, from the dewy eye of a deer to the guileless laugh of a roustabout.
Describe your creative process!
Every time I write a joke I'm convinced it will be the last. I don't know how it's done and I have no idea how I've gotten away with it so far. (Many internet commenters agree.)
How do you make your performances stand out?
I'm quite tall and I have silly hair. I didn't grow silly hair on purpose, I promise you. But looking a bit otherworldly does help, as you step up to the mic.
What can we look forward to during your show ‘Nevermore’?
Nevermore is all about why I hate the North Sea and why the North Sea hates me. At least, that's what I'm telling people. In fact, it's just an excuse to tell a load of jokes and stories that made me laugh.
What do you love most about performing live?
The best thing about live comedy is that the audience guides you. It's so much harder to know what's funny when they aren't there. Sometimes they really take you by surprise. You can see the delight on a comedian’s face when they get an unexpected laugh - it's wonderful.
What has been the most embarrassing moment you’ve had on stage?
These are the questions I ask myself when I can't sleep at night. I once spent a whole gig in Middlesbrough convinced I could see a ghost in the audience. The presence of a ghost doesn't make dying on stage any more fun, let me tell you.
Have you ever blanked during a performance? If so, how did you manage this?
Sorry, what was the question?
In a world which seems to be burdened by negativity, what power can laughter and comedy have in our lives?
I want to Nevermore to be an optimistic, uplifting show. And I agree that optimism is often unwarranted, but that's why I think it's important.
What inspired you to write the ‘Bonnie Montgomery’ book series (and begin your journey as an author, too)?
I started writing the Montgomery Bonbon / Bonnie books a few years ago when all the comedy clubs were closed and it was illegal to go outside. So, I suppose my main goal was having something to do during the day.
What advice would you give to any aspiring comedians?
Do what you want, and not what you think people want you to do. But do try to make ‘em laugh.
Have you got any plans for 2024?
Apart from the Nevermore tour and publishing my third Montgomery Bonbon book, I will be writing Bonnie's next adventure and learning to do that cool thing where you spin a basketball on your finger.
And, if you want to keep up to date with the work (and laughs!) of Alasdair, then you can head over to his Instagram (@itsmisterabk)!