| Mitch
Benn interviewed on Twitter by Angela Hunter
Mitch Benn is a comedian and songwriter, comedy
circuit veteran and regular contributor to BBC Radio. He has moved
up to an impressive third place in the Mr Twitter Universe competition,
with over 2,000 votes, placing him ahead of Stephen Fry (and in
between Russell Brand and Neil Gaiman, which some people might consider
an enviable position.)
Q: What do you
think are the advantages and disadvantages of comedy on Twitter?
A:
Both the best AND worst thing about Twitcom is the fact it’s
not been tried before and it might not work.
Q: Have you
figured out how to get your comedy songs across in Tweet form?
A:
I think so – it’s gonna require a temporary artistic
compromise, but it ought to work. I’m not going to do anything
to be ashamed of, it’s just I’m going to have to bend
my own “rules” a little.
Q: How do you
plan to deal with any hecklers?
A: I’ll
probably ignore them. Quite looking forward to having the option.
Q: What’s
your best and worst moment in stand-up?
A:
Worst was probably being sent out busking by the Comedy Store to
promote the Manchester Comedy Fest in 2001. That was dignified.
Best was possibly my first proper set at Glastonbury, quite a while
ago.
Q: What are
your favourite subjects, pet hates or things to avoid in comedy
material?
A:
There are no hack topics, just hack material. Someone like Micky
Flanagan can do fresh stuff about the most obvious subjects. As
regards ‘offensive’ comedy, I maintain there’s
no such thing as anything TRULY offensive isn’t funny.
Q: Who or what
are your comedy influences?
A:
my principal inspiration as a comic songwriter is Tom Lehrer.
Q: Do you feel
that your comedy style has evolved over the years?
A:
I hope so. It’s very important to keep developing. If you
decide you’re the finished article you’re in trouble.
Q: Do you think
Twitcom night will be a one-off or the first of many?
A:
It’ll depend on how well it works, and the fact it may not
is one of the most interesting things about it.
Q: It sounds
as if you like the idea of taking part in something a bit different
and experimental?
A:
Yes, I like to do different and unusual stuff, it keeps things interesting. |