The Jo Bains Three Minute Interview

Joe Bains hosts London’s up-and-coming comedy club, Licence to Laugh, featuring comedians from the city’s comedy circuit. Joe talks to Martin Walker via email about bringing his club to Edinburgh for August, swapping one capital for another.

I'm an IT geek, actually a Linux Network Administrator, and wanted to do something that was challenging and did not involve computers, plus I was dropped repeatedly as a child and wasn't given enough love.

“I wanted to bring Licence to Laugh to the Edinburgh fringe, so it’s a compilation show.”

Why did you choose to perform as part of Laughing Horse?

“Because they are well organised, which makes it quick and easy to book and organise your show with them.”

Why did you get into performing comedy and how did you get started?

“I'm an IT geek, actually a Linux Network Administrator, and wanted to do something that was challenging and did not involve computers, plus I was dropped repeatedly as a child and wasn't given enough love.”

Tell us your best, worst experiences as a comedian.

“I lasted forty seconds on the Comedy Store gong show, and did a gig in Ipswich, where I didn't get a single response from the audience; they just looked at me silently. I walked off to a very slow clap, and took solace with my friends Heineken, Budweiser and pity.

If you were curating a stand-up show for television, who would be your guests?

John Bishop - love his chatty style, Russel Peters – brilliant, Russ Monkeywithagunn, Obonjo Obonjo Obonjo and Russell Brand.

Broadway Baby Listing and Edinburgh Fringe Box Office: http://www.broadwaybaby.com/shows/licence-to-laugh-comedy-club/702313

Your Website: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Licence-to-Laugh/1...

Your Twitter: @riverart2000

Your Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joe.bains

YouTube Clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=geQw8w6EeCc

Since you’re here…

… we have a small favour to ask. We don't want your money to support a hack's bar bill at Abattoir, but if you have a pound or two spare, we really encourage you to support a good cause. If this article has either helped you discover a gem or avoid a turkey, consider doing some good that will really make a difference.

You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
Donate to Mama Biashara now

Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Donate to Theatre MAD now

Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
Donate to Acting For Others now