Poetry. Poetry again. Thoughts. Recipes. Song. Tim Key.

What is your show, The Slutcracker, about?
I tackle the big themes through the ancient medium of poetry. As it’s evolved I’ve noticed that there’s lots of bits about people either (a) dying (usually starving) or (b) screwing.. I talk about dating a little bit, too. And I also – inevitably – talk about dew (the stuff that gathers on grass etc in the mornings). There may also be a memory demonstration in there somewhere. And also, I’ve written some music I want to put in if there’s room. And it’s also about religion (specifically the boy, Joseph).

Why did you decide to do a show about this?
I really like all of these themes.

How ready is it?
No, it isn’t really ready just yet.

If your show was a dog, what kind of dog would it be?
Good question... I think if my show was a dog it would be a stray dog that looks pleasant enough from a distance but then, when you get right up close, you are repelled by it and physically jump backwards. But then, once you’ve recovered your composure, you start to tiptoe towards it again and look at it with a mixture of pity and morbid fascination.

Complete this sentence: "If you like (blank), then you'll like my show"
If you like everything you ever encounter (literally everything; spuds, opera, old people, torture, spending time with cows, black and white films, strip joints etc) then you’ll like my show. Sorry, that was a facetious answer. I think I'd hate reading that answer. I think I'd think the guy was a prick.

Is the Edinburgh Comedy Award important to you?
Crucial.

Which other acts would you recommend this year?
Obviously Tom Basden (my fit collaborator). I’ve seen his show – loved it. Brian Gittins – genius loony. I loved Sarah Millican’s show last year. I think Daniel Kitson has his moments. Stewart Lee is imperious. Simon Amstell is a very clever man and a very funny stand-up.

What is the most frightening thing about the Edinburgh Festival?
The thought that you’ll get there and everyone will hate your show and then a couple of days later you’ll get shot dead outside your flat.

Any tips on where to get the best pint or pie in Edinburgh?
Pleasance Courtyard. The hub of the whole thing. Best pie is to be found at Piemaker – I favour the chilli mince one. I always find drinking a can of Red Stripe whilst walking (aimlessly) through one of the parks can be a nice way of getting away from it all. Champagne on Arthur’s Seat. Really, as a rule of thumb, any form of alcohol, any part of Edinburgh usually does something.

Sum up the festival in one word
Breaking conventions.

The Slutcracker is on at the Pleasance Courtyard from August 5-31. For tickets click here