Mark Simmons: Sports Degree to Stand-Up Comedy, Nudist Gigs and Mastering One Liners

Kidding

Welcome to episode seventeen of Kidding, hosted by the up-and-coming comedian Reece Kidd. In this special installment, Reece has the honor of interviewing the UK Comics' Comic 2022 Best Act, Mark Simmons, a comic who has redefined the realm of one-liner comedy.

Known for his exceptional one-liners, Mark made waves in Edinburgh in 2017 by earning a spot in Dave's Best Joke of The Fringe. His solo shows at the festival, "One-Linerer" and "One-Linererer," were sell-out hits and cemented his reputation as a "Master of one-liners" (one4review ★★★★★).

Having reached the finals in numerous comedy competitions, Mark has become a sought-after name across the UK's top comedy clubs. He's had the opportunity to support legendary comedians like Seann Walsh, Rob Beckett, Rob Brydon, Michael McIntyre, Sean Lock, and Jack Dee on their national tours.

In this candid conversation, Mark opens up about his comedic journey, beginning with his start in comedy and how he overcame the fear of public speaking. He shares insights into enjoying shows in the moment, changing comedic style, and the unique experience of performing at nudist comedy gigs. The conversation also explores the intricacies of dealing with hecklers, the dynamics of delivering one-liners in small rooms, and navigating awkward audience interactions.

Mark delves into the realities of working multiple jobs in comedy and the power of speaking desires into existence. He reflects on the challenges of starting comedy in the modern era, reveals a bit that died on stage, shares anecdotes about his suspicious uncle, and talks about his family's love for awkward pranks.

The episode wraps up with an engaging discussion on perfectionism, offering a glimpse into the mind of a comedian constantly striving for excellence. Throughout, Mark's subtle and well-paced delivery shines, as described by Bruce Dessau of Beyond The Joke.

Whether you're an aspiring comedian or a lover of one-liners, this episode promises a delightful mix of wisdom, wit, and behind-the-scenes insights from one of the UK's most beloved comedic talents. Join Reece and Mark for a conversation filled with laughs, learning, and a healthy dose of the unexpected.
Marks Instagram
Marks website

Follow Kidding on social media for clips, live event info and behind the scenes
Kidding Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiddingpodcast/
Kidding Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kiddingpodcast
Kidding Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU49TsZVIbI7vak-EKOBSbA
Follow Reece:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reecek1dd/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@reecekidd

Chapters

1. Mark Simmons: Sports Degree to Stand-Up Comedy, Nudist Gigs and Mastering One Liners (00:00:00)

2. Marks start in comedy (00:02:37)

3. Overcoming the fear of public speaking (00:03:45)

4. Enjoying shows in the moment (00:06:19)

5. Changing Comedic Style (00:09:44)

6. Nudist Comedy Gigs (00:12:43)

7. Hecklers (00:15:11)

8. One-liners in small rooms (00:22:28)

9. Awkward audience interactions (00:23:52)

10. Working multiple jobs in comedy (00:27:02)

11. Speaking things into existence (00:29:04)

12. Starting comedy in this era (00:33:08)

13. Reece's material that doesn't work (00:35:16)

14. Perfectionism (00:44:41)