Comedy: James Acaster

Mr Acaster, who has brought his latest work-in-progress show to Brighton, talks to Victoria Nangle

Hello James. How are you today?
Good, thanks.

This show is a work in progress. How has it been progressing in your other previews?
Nicely. I’ve been enjoying this show more than any other I’ve done.

It’s called Recognise. After stints on Never Mind The Buzzcocks and 8 Out of 10 Cats, how often are you recognised ‘off the telly’?
Pretty much never. Every now and again though and usually by nice people.

What’s the most unusual place you’ve been recognised?
In a hostel in San Francisco queuing up for breakfast.

You have a rather stunning collection of jumpers, if you don’t mind me saying. Do you buy a new one for a new show, or are you naturally gifted at acquiring knitwear?
Naturally gifted, but the jumpers are not returning this year. I’ve decided they need a breather.

What is the favourite fact you have recently discovered?
The Hannah Playhouse in Wellington, New Zealand, has no right angles in it.

Is there any mariachi music returning in your show this year or might a waltz interject?
No mariachi I’m afraid. I have to go easy on the audience with songs that get stuck in their heads, two years in a row now I’ve kind of ruined people.

What do you hope to do by the end of 2014 – professionally and personally?
I want to raise awareness.
Haven’t decided what about yet. 

Who would play you in a biopic, and who would play your nemesis?
David Trent.

Thanks, James. I especially like that David Trent would be both you and your nemesis.

James Acaster, Caroline Of Brunswick, Wed 2 July, 7.45pm, £6.50/£5
James Acaster won Best International Show, New Zealand Comedy Festival 2014.