Interview: Henry Normal

Henry Normal was once described by The Telegraph as “The funniest man you’ve never heard of”. While this may be true, you will be familiar with the vast array of comedic gems he is responsible for. Our television screens would have been a lot less funny without Gavin and Stacey, The Mighty Boosh, Moone Boy, The Royle Family, Mrs Merton and anything Steve Coogan related (with the exception of Alan Partridge). He also wrote and produced the Oscar nominated, incandescent film Philomena.
This Valentine’s Day Henry will be reading his own poetry at Latest Bar in: The Joy of Frogs – “A poetic celebration of love, romance and other unrealistic expectations”. The event is a fund-raising benefit for Amaze, a charity that provide information, advise and support to parents and carers of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities. The charity is close to his heart as he and wife screenwriter, Angela Pell, have an autistic son, Johnny, who is now 15. The family reside happily in Brighton.

How did you come up with the name – The Joy Of Frogs?
The Joy Of Frogs is the title of a poem I wrote 20 years ago. It’s a play on the idea of the two aspects of love being ‘the joy of sex’ and ‘the fairytale nature of kissing frogs to find your true love’. My Son Johnny drew the frog for the poster so it seemed a fun idea for the Amaze Benefit.

Can you give an example of the kind of poetry we can expect to hear on the night?
The Joy Of Frogs
Frogs need kisses like anyone else
Not all of them want to become handsome Princes
Some prefer a more pond-based lifestyle
What if you turn into a handsome Prince and the Princess really
Prefers frogs?
What if you’re not that handsome a Prince?
Maybe you’re more handsome a frog?
Let’s face it, chances are
If you can get kissed fairly regularly by a Princess
And remain a frog
You’ve got it made
If she gives you tongues
Then go for it

The event will be a poetic celebration of romantic love. I’ve researched St Valentine, Cupid, Chicago massacres and all things traditionally romantic. As I am now happily married and have no reason to lie or perpetuate any myths I can explore this subject with a healthy critical eye. There will be plenty of upbeat love poetry and some live music to get us all in the mood. Cynics are welcome and encouraged.

I read that writing poetry is your first love – is this true? And if so why?
I’ve been lucky to make a living working in TV comedy but poetry is definitely my first and one true love (apart from my wife and child of course). It allows a person to communicate their perception of the world to others efficiently without compromising truth.
Truth is the basis of both poetry and comedy. Which is true and poetic but unfortunately not comic. Don’t worry if you are not classically educated on poetry, you’ll be in good company. I used to think Bathos and Pathos were two of the three Musketeers.

How long have you been a patron for Amaze?
My wife Angela, myself and my son Johnny have been connected to Amaze since he was diagnosed as autistic 14 years ago. They do a great job working with families that have special needs. Angela and I have been patrons for several years now and have helped establish The Big Cheer comedy gig as an annual event. I’d like to see if we could do a similar job with making poetry a great night out.

How have amaze supported you as a family?
It was difficult at first understanding how we cope with the challenges of autism and Amaze were invaluable in putting us in touch with local people and services. At times like those you really need friendly advice from people who are informed. It makes a big difference.
The obstacles seem daunting. Then when we needed to understand the schooling options available Amaze helped us negotiate the system.

How will you be celebrating Valentine’s evening after the event?
Angela will be coming to the event. I’m hoping my performance so moves her that I can warm my feet on her back when we snuggle into bed. Now that is true love.
Interviewed by Sam Harman