Danielle the talent spotter

Published on 16/08/2012 14:18

DANIELLE Ward has two shows at the Fringe this year, Speakeasy and Play Dead. Judging by her past record, if you go to see them, you could glimpse a star of the future.

THE main problem with being a stand-up is that you spend most of your time in the company of male comics who talk solely about crisps, farting and ‘smashing it.’

The only time you get to talk to other girls is in the toilet... or if you write Fringe plays and fill them with excellent ladycomics. In 2006 I wrote Take a Break Tales, which starred two young comediennes. Isy Suttie, who went on to rub herself against David Mitchell in a (fictional) cupboard, was one and Emma Fryer, who was most recently seen in the hit film Kill List, was the other.

Then I did Psister Psycho. That starred Anna Crilly and Katy Wix. They’ve since been in a truckload of sitcoms and are currently filming their own tellyshow.

Finally, a couple of years ago I wrote Gutted. A musical starring many excellent non-males and an unknown actress called Helen George. She’d never done comedy but was amazing. She was on the cover of the TV Times at Christmas as one of the stars of Call the Midwife. I know a funny woman when I see one.

Speakeasy/Play Dead, Pleasance Courtyard, until August 27, 8.20pm, £8.50-£9.50, www.edfringe.com