Who on the circuit always makes you laugh?
I’ve always been impressed by Athena Kugblenu. I was there when she did her first showcase and have followed her career ever since. I think she is amazing.
Can you remember a gig so bad, it’s now funny?
I will never forget the day I did a gig in front of people from my area. I was told I should have a good night because they all know me and my personality. The silence haunts me to this day.
What’s your process for writing new material?
My material is my life, and then I sprinkle on some Hollywood to get the jokes. I take the truth, take out what might be too personal, then build the story. It’s relatable content that people enjoy. (I hope!)
What’s your Edinburgh show about?
It’s a quest to answer the question: “Who is Thanyia Moore?” and the funny journey I take to find out.
What’s the greatest thing about the Edinburgh fringe?
The atmosphere. I love being in the mix of all this art and all these like-minded people. People who understand that you might stop talking mid conversation to do a TikTok and that’s OK.
What’s the worst thing about the Edinburgh fringe?
Being away from my village. I’m so close to my family and friends that I really feel it when I don’t see them for ages.
You often MC shows. Can you recall any standout pieces of audience work?
I love asking white men if they like Black girls and watching them stutter or sweat. The ones who do like Black girls just scare me because, sir, that doesn’t make this fun.
What’s the trick of being a good MC?
Stay present. Be in the room.
What made you get into comedy?
After hosting dance shows and being told I was funny, I decided to do a comedy course and see what happens. And here we are today. I’m not saying it was meant to be – I’m just saying I’m talking to the Guardian.
Best heckle?
Over Zoom: “I’m going to the kitchen, this one’s shit.”
What are you most excited for right now?
My show and the future. I love my show, it’s a fun, funny, entertaining hour that you can’t stop smiling and laughing in. I can’t wait to see what comes as a result of people loving it.
Who is your comedy hero?
There are loads of people who I respect, whose CVs are impressive, but no “hero”. I think hero is a strong word. No comedian is saving the world at night …
And your non-comedy hero ?
Again, no hero – but my mum is pretty close. Sorry to be dull, but if you’ve met Joyce then you know she is a living legend and I’m so lucky to call her mine.
Thanyia Moore: Just Being Funny is at Monkey Barrel Comedy, Edinburgh, 8-28 August
