My Edinburgh: WitTank’s Mark Cooper-Jones discusses the Festival city
The sketch posse are bringing new show The School to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2013
First time I came to Edinburgh was
In 2006. WitTank was, at that point, a six-person strong conglomerate of eager comedy freshers who all attended Durham University. The show was definitely a mixed bag, but we had a lot of fun.
I come back because …
This is WitTank’s eighth year in a row now, and I honestly think the first year we don’t come up we’ll be at a complete loss about what to do in August. I’ve been thoroughly institutionalised, but in a good way.
Edinburgh’s USP is
Its geography. Now, I’m a trained geography teacher so that’s obviously a biased opinion, but I genuinely believe the topography, geology, and scenic surroundings really place the festival in a dramatic and unique place.
Most surreal festival experience
In 2011 we climbed Arthur’s Seat at 4am in the rain. It was pretty hard work and we weren’t wearing appropriate footwear, but we made it. It was worth it to watch the sun rise over Edinburgh.
Best/worst thing ever written about you?
I don’t remember who it was, but someone said of us ‘the furious young Simon Callow, Benedict Cumberbatch’s younger sister, and the big dopey one’.
My favourite place to eat/drink is
Oink! Hog roasts, at lunchtime only, near the Royal Mile. Hot pig, crackling and apple sauce stuffed into a lovely white bun. It is genuinely perfect. Unless you’re vegetarian.
I’m likely to be found
In a show. I think it’s important to remember that just because you’re part of the festival, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy all it has to offer as a punter too. It’s all part of the fun.
I’m least likely to be found?
On a tram.
WitTank presents ‘The School’, Pleasance Courtyard, 556 6550, until 25 Aug, £10–£12 (£9–£10).