We sat down to chat to Jonty before his new show Got Some Notes comes to Camden Fringe this July. A fast-paced collection of character-driven sketch comedy – bonkers, hilarious and all performed by one man! Tickets here.
Where did your journey into comedy begin? Was there a specific moment or influence that set you down this path?
When I was about 9 or 10 I fell in love with shows like Blackadder, Fawlty Towers and Monty Python. And there was Mr. Bean before that. It’s safe to say I think Rowan Atkinson is a genius – he has probably had the biggest influence on me. I watched and rewatched all of those shows countless times. What a nerd.
What inspired you to take the traditionally ensemble-driven sketch comedy format and turn it into a solo show?
Lack of friends. That, and I liked the idea that a solo sketch show placed an emphasis on audience involvement a lot more – so the whole show would feel like a more communal experience.
How do you approach writing characters that are both unique and adaptable to different audiences?
Adaptability comes mostly in the performance. You let the audience lead, and take what they give you. The characters, just like people, will react to whatever energy or responses they are given. The writing allows for audience interaction, it is built into the script but It’s also my job as a performer to think on my feet, in character, and keep things fresh and funny. I am now realising that was a pretentious way of saying that improv exists.
Have there been any particularly memorable audience interactions during your work-in-progress performances?
They’ve all been memorable, for one reason or another. In one particular sketch an audience member got so involved I started to wonder who’s show it actually was. A real show-stealer. I had him killed shortly afterwards.
There’s a strong sense of playfulness in your press release. How important is joy and silliness in your work, especially in today’s climate?
Joy and silliness is the whole point isn’t it? Not just in comedy, but isn’t that what we all want from life? Isn’t that just being happy? Things only get more miserable as we get older and since the world insists on getting darker, what else do we fight it with? I should make t-shirts.