Helen Lederer

In Finger Food

What is your show all about?

It's about a wannabe cable TV presenter (me) who'll do ANYTHING to land hereself a tv sereis, even if she has to cook food live on stage. Three Women in Search of a Nervous Breakdown meets 'Noises off'. Its a play, not stand up. Oooooh.

Where and when can we see it?

A few try outs in London, Kings Head Islington, New End Hampstead, Riverside... help! Then the Assembly 6 Aug to 31st Aug, then tour Jan and Feb. Then West End.

Do you love Edinburgh or is it a chore?

I love Ed. Very much, but fear it at the same time. Lots of good people working away with new ideas, lots of hangers on undermining and copying them... but hey that's Ed for you.

What will you be doing with the other 23 hrs of the day?

Sleep in the morning but at least there's no pressure at 5 am. Then eat a nice Scottish breakfast of organic juices and potato cakes, have a Hendersons lunch with a friend, then start panicking at 3 pm in the flat, sink a pint as soon as we come off stage from 9 to 12pm

What's the best thing you've ever seen on the fringe?

A one man show by very good looking S. African actor who I did a book programme with recently, how time has flown. Also Rick Ben and Andy de la Tour Stand Up in the Assembly was a riot. First show which came with real comedy groupies.

What's the worst thing you've seen?

A posh student comedy revue in a church hall. I was probably just jealous though.

What's the most curious thing that's happened to you in Edinburgh?

Getting thrush from all those pilsner lagers (this WAS in the 80's).

If you could persuade one VIP to come to your show who would it be? Why?

Woody Allen has just not been made aware of my talent yet...

If the Edinburgh fairy could grant your wish, what would your wish for?

That we enjoy every single show. Don't read any reviews and have fun.

What advice do you have for first time Edinburgh punters?

Do your best, don't do it drunk and don't mind the critics, if it's your best then that's all you can offer.