Fred MacAulay: Legally Bald 2

How's it going, Fred?

I just got back last night from walking the West Highland Way. Not sure that feet full of blisters is the ideal preparation for 3 weeks up and down Edinburgh's hilly pavements.

It's that time of year again. I believe this is your 23rd Fringe now. How does it feel when you see August looming yet again?

I reckon it's 24, actually. I've been doing something or other since 1989 when I was part of the Funny Farm's show which we did in Grindley St. I think I got about 4 gigs on a rota basis with other Funny Farmers like Parrot, Bruce Morton and Stu Who.

This year will be a busy one with my radio show in the mornings and then stand-up in the evenings. Plus there'll be the usual array of 'Best of...' gigs too. I'll admit, I maybe don't have the same physical energy as I did when I was younger, but my enthusiasm is the same.

Most comics at the Fringe are desperately trying to get their big break. Obviously you don't have that pressure now. Do you think that's an advantage?

I feel sorry for the comics who see this as an opportunity for a big break. It's a chicken and egg situation. Look back at the Perrier winners like Jo Brand and Lee Evans, they are where they are because they're great comedians who happened to win a prize, they're not there because they won the prize. As for getting a big break, I'd still take one if it came along! And with regards to pressure, there's always a worry about reviews damaging your ticket sales. I think word of mouth is still a great asset in Edinburgh.

Is there any particular goal you have at the Fringe, other than to put on a good show?

You're right, putting on a good show was always what I wanted to do. It encourages you to write a new show, or to move routines around to create a cogent show. As someone who didn't live in London, and who would only get a run of maybe 7 or 8 gigs over a weekend down there during the year, it was always a good opportunity to do 20 odd gigs back to back before you were well enough known to be able to book a tour.

These days, do you feel more at home in a studio or on stage?

I'm a stand-up first and foremost. I would have answered that way even ten years ago when I'd maybe only be doing half a dozen stand up gigs a year. I never, ever went a year without some gigs.

For the second year running, your show proudly demonstrates your Bald Pride. On behalf of all follically challenged men, I thank you. Do you not feel that something called 'the Fringe' is discriminating against us?

Ha ha! Definitely. Although I've used it to my advantage. I've even done photo shoots for the Fringe with a comb stuck to my forehead. I had to borrow the comb, obviously!

Finally, who else are you going to see during August?

Aileen and I take a flat for August and we've not started doing our 'to see' list yet. We'll have the kids (Kids?? They're all past 21) staying through with us for some or all of the time. Jack works in front of house and will keep his ear to the ground for any hot chat on any acts. We will, however, definitely be going to see The Return of The Lumberjacks.