Fans of political comedy need look no further than former Labour adviser to Harriet Harman and Ed Miliband, Ayesha Hazarika! After the success of her Tales from the Pink Bus, Ayesha has been touring her new show State of the Nation, around the UK and with a sell out run at Soho Theatre. We caught up with Ayesha to talk comedy, Edinburgh and politics…
Funny Women: What is your new show State of the Nation about?
Ayesha Hazarika: I lift the curtain on what life is like behind the scenes in politics. Audiences have said they’ve had a good laugh and learned something too.
FW: You’re bringing this show to the Gilded Balloon at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Are you excited to be back at the festival?
AH: Yes, it’s a privilege to be part of the biggest arts happening in the world, even though usually you end up with financial ruin, cirrhosis of the liver and low self-esteem. But it’s a great chance to go see other stuff including things you wouldn’t normally catch.
FW: How did you get into comedy?
AH: A friend from work saw a stand-up course advertised and made me do it.
FW: How do you bring comedy into politics?
AH: It’s quite easy at the moment as politics is so bonkers!
FW: What would you say to any women hoping to get into comedy?
AH: Don’t be scared of failing. It’s part of life. Just look at David Cameron.
FW: Any new projects beyond your State of the Nation tour?
AH: I’m writing a book about the history and stories behind Prime Minister’s Questions.
FW: Who are your favourite funny women?
AH: Zoe Lyons, Katherine Ryan, Kerry Godliman, Gina Yashere, Jo Caulfield and Joan Rivers.
Ayesha Hazarika: State of the Nation is at Gilded Balloon at the Museum from Monday 14th to Sunday 20th August at 7.30pm. For more tickets and more information click here!
You can also catch her Edinburgh preview show at the Bill Murray on Saturday 22nd July. For tickets and more information click here!
