Tell us more about your show and what audiences can expect
A funny but brutally honest conversation about the state of the world from my unique perspective. I think being a black gay woman and also an American who hasn’t had full access to the American experience, I have a viewpoint that isn’t often spoken about.
Where do you draw inspiration from for your work, both in terms of creation and performance?
I draw my inspiration from living life. The things I see, hear directly or even a conversation I over hear sitting at a bar. From past life experiences, family, friends – truly everywhere.
Looking at this show, how would you say it links to previous work personally and thematically?
I feel this hour is a continuation of the previous two in some ways but also a deviation in others. I feel like essentially hour after hour we are really just having one long conversation, but just unpacking different parts.
Why is this an important story to tell?
I think we are at a real tipping point – humanity that is – and art is always at the pulse of that.
What would you like audiences to take away from seeing you at the Fringe?
I want them to laugh, I want them to think a little and I want them to leave feeling a little lighter than when they walked in.
How do you feel about the current arts landscape in your country and your part in it? Does it excite you and inspire you to keep pushing the boat out?
I feel volume is becoming more important than quality and that pushes me to focus on quality. I want stand-up comedy to survive whatever this storm is and quality is key to that.
Why are arts festivals such as the Fringe so important for international exchange?
Simply by bringing artists from everywhere together to exchange ideas. That is the life blood of art.
What’s next for you and how are you feeling about the future in general?
I don’t think about the future as much as I try to think about what I can control which is what I am creating in the present.
How can Edinburgh audiences keep up with you beyond the festival?
They can follow me on my socials: @samjaycomic
Sam Jay: We the People, Pleasance Courtyard, 30 Jul-24 Aug, 7pm