Andrew O’Neill: Alternative, Hyena Lounge Comedy Club, City Screen, York, February 12 (From York Press)

Andrew O’Neill: Alternative, Hyena Lounge Comedy Club, City Screen, York, February 12

11:58am Friday 10th February 2012 in Comedy

In his new touring show, Alternative, comedian Andrew O’Neill explores why he has chosen to live in an alternative way, rejecting the normal routes in life.

On Sunday, at City Screen, York, he will tell tales of hitchhiking to gigs, living rent-free and practising black magic, as well as discussing how his political views inform his take on the world and revealing how to choose the right skirt to wear to a heavy rock gig.

Today, he gives some alternative answers to Charles Hutchinson.

What is your alternative to what used to be called alternative comedy, Andrew?

“Ballet. It’s so different as to be barely recognisable as comedy. In truth, what used to be called alternative comedy needs a resurgence. The stuff that gets on TV now is funny, but there’s not much that alternative about it. The point of view is completely mainstream.

“I prefer stuff that’s a bit more weird, a bit more original, a bit more refreshing. There should be a reason why the people on stage are up there, other than just reflecting our lives back at us.”

Have you considered playing venues alternative to the usual homes of the comedy circuit?

“I do quite a lot of that. I play metal and rock festivals every summer – Download, Sonisphere, Leeds and Reading among others. I like playing music venues and rock bars; I’ve done a fair amount in fetish clubs too. Those are fascinating gigs! Places like that are a different experience, and that’s kind of what this show is all about: jumping the groove of your everday life to find a life that’s richer and more real and more full of adventure.”

What have been the benefits of your alternative way of life?

“Ha! Er...what are the benefits? Well, I like to think my life now is more interesting and more full of texture and fun than it would have been if I’d joined the rat race and got a mortgage and worked in an office.

“I’ve tried to fill my life with art and music and adventure and all that sort of good stuff. I’m in a band as well as being a comedian, and I really enjoy life on the road. It has ups and downs, but that’s what life should be all about. And being vegan means I’m not as fat as my brothers...”

• Andrew O’Neill: Alternative, Hyena Lounge Comedy Club, Basement Bar, City Screen, York, Sunday, 7.30pm. Box office: 0871 704 2054 or thebasementyork.co.uk