Comedy: Alexis Dubus and Marcel Lucont

Looking remarkably similar, these two acclaimed comics are previewing their Edinburgh shows together

So, your show is called ‘Cars & Girls’. Your two favourite subjects perchance?
Alexis Dubus: “I can’t really claim to be an expert on either, I’m afraid. I know basic maintenance, I’ve rarely kept hold of one for more than two years, and I know I like the red ones.”

It’s billed as a selection of travel tales. What has been your most unusual mode of transport?
“A giant illuminated polar bear bus in the Nevada Desert, since you ask. Pretty memorable.”

What is the most bizarre culture clash laugh you’ve ever experienced?
“There was a bizarre moment in Senegal, during End Of The Road [a documentary with comedian Sy Thomas, soon on Discovery Channel] where we were asked to do some impromptu comedy at a resort. It wasn’t just impromptu for us, it was pretty much unexpected by everyone there, most of whom were just trying to relax and have a chat. Mic or no mic, if people aren’t expecting comedy you just end up looking like a dickhead attention-seeker at a party. Which, I guess, is kind of what we are anyway…”

What do you think of the debonair performer Marcel Lucont?
“We’ve done a few festivals together, and while I enjoy him onstage, offstage he’s something of a cock-blocker. I wouldn’t be surprised if, when I get up to do my show, the room has been emptied of women. The man actually claims condoms and sex aids on his tax expenses.”

Bonjour. Are you looking forward to playing in Brighton?
Marcel Lucont: “It is always a joy to stand on the beach and look across at civilisation, and I enjoy the challenge to find a fish to eat there that hasn’t had all the joy deep-fried from its gills. Fortunately there is French cuisine to be found in town, unlike many inferior British towns. The pebbled beach, however, makes post-show al fresco fornication a challenge too far.”

You’ve won acclaim and praise for your shows. How important are these?
“It is to be expected, but it is important also to remember that those delivering these verdicts and awards are usually lesser beings, in awe of what they are seeing and aware that they would be unable to achieve these feats themselves. I accept each award with my usual grace and humility, and feel sorry for those who give a mere four-star review, as there is evidently something in the show they have not understood or that invokes jealousy.”

Do you enjoy the comic wit of Alexis Dubus?
“I did make a point to catch his Nudity show at the Edinburgh Fringe. A clever move to involve nude women in his performance, but a tactic that I do not require myself to attract an audience. I reserve my nude women for the other side of the stage.”

Alexis Dubus: Cars And Girls + Marcel Lucont: Gallic Symbol, Caroline Of Brunswick, 16 July, £5