Andy Askins is one of the most distinctive voices in comedy today.
A master of the unexpected, his routines are filled with offbeat original songs and brilliantly crafted punchlines that leave audiences in stitches. As one of the acts in this year's 'Best Of The Edinburgh Fest' at Adelaide Fringe, Askins shares the stage with fellow comedic talents Harry Stachini, Ting Lim, and Ollie Horn, each bringing their own unique style and energy to the line-up.
Having made a name for himself as a sought-after headliner on the UK comedy circuit, Askins' ability to disarm audiences with his quiet demeanour before hitting them with hilariously subversive punchlines is a skill few can match.
Whether it's Andy, Stachini's sharp observational storytelling, Lim’s dry wit, or Horn’s globe-trotting comedic adventures, the line-up promises an evening of top-tier international comedy. Here, we get a glimpse into Andy Askins' comedic inspirations and experiences, alongside the dynamic energy of his fellow performers.
What can audiences expect from your set at 'Best Of The Edinburgh Fest' this year? Will there be any new material or surprises in store?
Yes, I think it’s important to add and cultivate new material in a set especially if you find yourself in a place over an extended period of time, I’m keen to try out some unexplored comedy avenues too!
Your routines are known for their offbeat comic songs and unpredictable punchlines. How did you develop such a distinctive comedic style, and what drew you to mixing music with comedy?
It was my third open spot in my local comedy club, the headliner was a great musical comic, Mitch Ben. We had a chat and a play around on a lovely mini Yamaha Acoustic he was using. He suggested that if I had a skill, it should be utilised. I’d never considered it before then. It made my life much easier, I felt less self-conscious, the guitar was my suit of armour. It was good advice. And my style of comedy? It’s just something that developed organically over time. A hash of quips, stories, one-liners and anything I want to throw in. I like the idea of keeping an audience slightly off balance. It’s better for all involved if I can stay a couple of steps ahead.
How do you adapt your comedy for an international audience like the one at Adelaide Fringe? Are there particular challenges or joys in performing for such a diverse crowd?
I think comedy is universal, but the language of comedy is not. Local references need to be appropriate, and word play often goes unnoticed. It’s a learning process and initially there may be some fumbling around and experimentation but hopefully I can make things work. Taste, values, status all play a part. The challenge is finding the way to bridge the gap (or if you’re feeling brave, exploit the gap). The joy is when a routine hits as hard as it would at home in the UK.
You’ll be sharing the stage with Harry Stachini, Ting Lim, and Ollie Horn in 'Best Of The Edinburgh Fest'. What do you enjoy most about being part of a line-up show?
It’s always nice to have a bit of company in the green room, we all have mutual friends and there is always plenty to talk about. The promoter is the one that chooses the line-ups, and they know their stuff, but it doesn’t have to be complementary, it just has to work. The best thing about a mixed bill is there’s less pressure, there should be something funny for everyone that’s paid for a ticket if it’s a solo show and it’s not going well, it can be difficult.
Have you performed at Adelaide Fringe before, and if so, what do you love about it? If this is your first time, what are you most looking forward to about being part of the festival?
I have played Adelaide before but not as part of the official Fringe. I had a lovely time both on stage and socially. The shows were a tonne of fun and I was sharing a house with three good comedian mates. I met a lot of new friends too and not just comedians, behind-the-scenes peeps and audience members. I’ve stayed in touch with many of them. It really is the place to be in Feb-March. I’m most looking forward to being around a tonne of comedians, optimism abounds a migration of clowns. I’m sure Adelaide Fringe will exceed my expectations. It’s going to be a hoot!
Your comedy is often described as disarming and surprising. How do you build that instant connection with audiences, especially in such a dynamic festival setting?
My on-stage persona is low status, more loser than alpha male, it’s non-threatening. . . Perhaps that makes them a little more relaxed. I also have a very dark sense of humour, an odd combination but it seems to work for me.
Over the years, you’ve performed in venues ranging from intimate comedy clubs to grand stages like the Hackney Empire. Are there any particularly memorable moments or unusual experiences that stand out in your career?
I’ve been lucky and had more than my share of amazing experiences. Performing to about 12 people on Mount Alice was one of them. We arrived by helicopter, did a little show, had tea and biscuits and we were back on the chopper all in the space of a couple of hours! I’ve also had the privilege of performing many military shows over the years in Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia and many other countries – they provided many exhilarating and sobering moments. My proudest moment was performing for The Teenage Cancer Trust at the Royal Albert Hall with my family watching in the audience. I’ve been very lucky indeed.
Where do you draw inspiration for your songs and jokes? Are there particular themes or situations that you enjoy exploring in your comedy?
My head is one big noise, from the moment I wake I’m bouncing from one idea to another, they stem from everyday conversations, people watching. I don’t chase ideas, they won’t leave me alone. I just look for things that make me laugh.
Beyond Adelaide Fringe, what’s next for you in 2025? Are there other festivals, projects, or tours you’re excited about?
Adelaide is the start of a fun four months for myself and my wife Julie. We travelled together a lot before we had our kids and now our kids are grown up it’s time to continue our travels. We’re off to Melbourne Fest, Brisbane, Sydney, New Zealand and then hopefully home and the Glastonbury Festival. I’m planning a small tour of my own starting 2026. Very exciting times!
'Best Of The Edinburgh Fest' plays The Factory @ The Garden of Unearthly Delights and The Spiegeltent @ The Garden of Unearthly Delights (Adelaide Fringe) 14 February-23 March.
