Glasgow International Comedy Festival Q&A: Jay Lafferty

Tell us a bit about your show Wheesht!

Wheesht! debuted at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival last year and I'm excited to kick off my spring/summer tour dates at the Glasgow Comedy Festival. The show is about my inability to keep my mouth shut and all the awkward situations talking too much has got me into and out of.

Wheesht! covers growing up in the 80's, coming of age in the 90's and reflecting on all the changes positive and negative that bring us to 2019. It's about me learning when to hold my tongue and knowing when to speak up.

Do you have any top tips for anything else visitors should do while in Glasgow?

Well as I'm performing Wheesht! on the 22nd of March at the fantastic Blackfriars in Merchant City here are a few top tips for things to do in Glasgow's eclectic East End.

As a vintage clothes freak, my first stop in that area is always the colourful Mr Ben's- a Glasgow clothing institution. Then you could grab lunch in one of the many bars or restaurants around the Trongate before spending the afternoon visiting the range of artists studios the Merchant City has to offer. Drop in to Trongate 103 to look at or even make some art - they also have a brilliant kinetic theatre in there, but make sure you're out in time to catch the show at 7.30pm!

Who would you recommend comes to see you at the festival?

Anyone who enjoys a laugh - young or old I've been performing stand up now for over 15 years and like to think I've got something for everyone.

And who would you suggest maybe doesn't?

I think as long as you're up for it you should come along!

What sets your show apart from others in the programme?

I think my background as a club compere means that I can tailor the show to my audience. I always like to find some common ground and pull the audience into the story so everyone leaves feeling like they have been part of something unique.

What's next for you after the Glasgow International Comedy Festival?

Next, I'm off on tour with the show around Scotland from Lochwinnoch, to Hawick. Then I will be previewing this years fringe show Jammy which is a show all about fate, odds and if you're feeling lucky.

Jay Lafferty Wheesht! 22nd march 7.30pm Blackfriars 36 Bell Street Glasgow £10/£8