There aren't many comedians over eighty years old working on the comedy circuit, but American stand-up Lynn Ruth Miller would be pretty special if she was half her age. She only took up comedy a few years ago and has quickly made a name for herself as a witty, candid and bawdy stand-up and cabaret performer. In 2013 she won Time Out and Soho Theatre's TO&ST Edinburgh Cabaret Award and she is even better than that now. As explained here, she is about to appear on C4's series First Dates. She also has lots of live dates coming up. She is doing her show Ageing is Amazing at the Kings Head, N1 on November 13. That is the initial musical that won Star of Brighton in 2009 and she is doing her show I Love Men at the Leicester Square Theatre on November 20, 27 and 29. Tickets here. For more about Lynn Ruth Miller click here.
1. What is the last thing you do before you go onstage (apart from check your flies and/or check your knickers aren't sticking out of your skirt and check for spinach between your teeth )?
I take a deep breath and say a silent prayer that they laugh.
2. What irritates you?
That people will not let go of the stereotype that I do not know what I am saying and am not in touch with the modern world. In reality I should be grateful because that disconnect is what makes them laugh
3. What is the most dangerous thing you have ever done?
Change countries when I was 80 years old taking a job with no contract and no guarantee.
4. What is the most stupid thing you have ever done?
Marrying my first husband. I knew I didn't love him but I decided to take the risk because marriage was the life I thought I wanted. Now I realise that the life I have is exactly the life I really want.
5. What has surprised you the most during your career in comedy?
The consistency of the laughs I am getting. I never felt I was a success before I always knew I was good at what I did but I never felt that I was more than just adequate. In comedy, I know I am doing what I should be doing and doing it well.
Interview continues here.
