Quincy Carr, aka The Cockney Prince, is regarded as one of the best of a new wave of comedians to come out of the UK, who regularly comes up with fresh material and has an awesome stage presence. We caught up with him ahead of his show at The Laughter Factory here in Abu Dhabi.
What do you think of Abu Dhabi?
I think it’s a very progressive city. The people that live here are very welcoming to comedy. I only see the nightlife but the crowds seem up for it. So much happens in Abu Dhabi but they love coming to see comedy. Lots of people always come to the show and it’s great that everyone makes an effort to see us. Everyone is clued up on what is going on back home and they do research on the comedians, which is the beauty of it. You bring some of home to the people you’re performing to.
Are there any subject matters you avoid when performing in the UAE?
I would never go to any country or area and mock their culture or their religion. I would point out things but I would never mock or offend anyone. It’s not in my set. I’ve been doing it long enough now and the subject matters I choose don’t have anything to do with that. I don’t bite the hand that feeds me.
What can we expect from your show?
An insight into the Quincy World – a young gentleman and a father figure. I talk about my family a lot. I do believe true comedy is from the heart and people identify with families. Whether it’s their own or someone else’s. You can expect me to be a cheeky chappy on the stage and I can guarantee you that my size matches my smile. I have been told that my smile breaks the ice in any room. I take that as a compliment.
How long have you been working as a stand-up comedian?
I’ve been full time since 2005 – so let’s say around seven years.
What’s the best thing about being a comedian?
The fact you are bringing people into your world and they are forgetting everything about their troubles and problems for that space of time and you can bring a smile to their faces. For that short period of time they don’t see colour, race, size or anything – they just see an act and that is the best thing about it.
Are there any particular gags or topics that get the most laughs?
Relationships, along with topical subject matters. But stuff that’s close to home like relationships and family are always funny.
How do you deal with heckling?
My style of comedy doesn’t allow it to happen and my biceps deter it. My strength is my stage presence. You need to know what you are doing to avoid heckling.
Do you have one memorable gig that stands out?
It was in India, Mumbai and I got a standing ovation from 450 people. Basically they embraced everything. I think that was a turning point in my career. It was great to be recognized in another country.
What do you think made that show so successful?
I think it was just a case of connecting with the audience. For me to do what I need to do, I need to be real and sincere in what comes out of my mouth. I treat the audience like they are in my house and we are having a party before dinner is served. It helps me.
Can you tell us a bit about the other comedians you will be performing with?
Tom Wrigglesworth is a northerner and I’m a southerner so on paper we have a divide and a rivalry. The beauty about us is that we are all different. Tom has a style that makes you think a lot and he will add different things to a joke that will make you think more. It’s thinking man’s comedy. Louis Ramey is from the US and his style is so professional and he blew me away when I first saw him. His material is lots of jokes and they are so well polished and delivered that it’s always funny to hear him no matter how many times you see him.
Are there any comedians in particular who you admire?
My inspirations growing up were Dave Chappelle, Earthquake, the late Greg Giraldo, Bernie Mac. I like Dave Allen; these are the real storytelling comedians. Brendon Burns is good and Stephen K Amos.
See Quincy perform with The Laughter Factory on September 18 at Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi, Hamdan St. The show starts at 9pm, tickets are Dhs140 and can be purchased from www.timeouttickets.com.
