Standup comedian Stephen K. Amos is a familiar face on shows like “Have I Got News For You” and “Mock the Week”, and he spoke to Rebecca Caroline before coming to the Lincoln Theatre Royal on Sunday, October 2nd.
When did you realise that comedy could be a decent career for you?
I suppose it was when I didn’t have to do another job during the day to keep me in rent money and food.
You tend to do a lot of the ‘it’s funny because it’s true’ and anecdotal kind of comedy, has that always been the case?
I have been doing stand up for over 15 years and it’s only recently that I have been doing anecdotal / semi autobiographical material. It didn’t occur to me that audiences would be receptive to material about someone they have never met before, so my early stuff was really ‘jazz hands’, look at me I’m funny.
Has there ever been a moment when a part of your routine hasn’t got the reaction you expected?
I have been fortunate enough to perform stand up all over the world and it never ceases to amaze me how some audiences can react differently to the same material/routine. All my routines are designed to get a reaction – be it laughter, thought, shock etc – but the only thing that has thrown me is when an audience takes something literally!
What has been your favourite moment in your career?
To pinpoint one favourite moment would be like picking your favourite child! It really is impossible for me to define a clear moment. The fact that I am doing a job I love, making people laugh and people want to come and see me live is just amazing.
What are you looking forward to the most about this tour?
This is an extension of my current tour, which has taken me to Australia and Europe. I’m looking forward to getting back out on the road and touring the UK.
Why do you think the people of Lincoln should come out and see you?
Who knows, I may be the next Mayor of Lincoln, so why not get to see me early?! I’d say they should come just because I’m funny, why not!