Danny Buckler will be bringing the unique blend of comedy and magic that led Rusell Brand to describe him as a 'Hancokian treasure’. William Gadsby Peet discusses magic and mirth in a quick-fire Q&A
- What got you in to magic/comedy?
It's a secret.
- Russell Brand described you as a ‘Hancokian treasure’; is that a comparison you’re happy with?
I'm delighted with it! I get it a lot, except in America where I get Nathan Lane. It’s not conscious, my whole life is about becoming your authentic self, but I have no control over anyone’s perception of me and if that’s what they perceive... better that then "you know who you remind me of? Bernie Winters."
- You’ve performed privately for Liam Gallagher, Bruce Willis and the Sultan of Brunei, what was that like?
Back in the day I started as a children’s entertainer - I loved it as I'd improvise the whole party and the kids loved it as they didn't feel patronised. Ah, the nineties when life was good. So, Liam and his then wife Patsy heard there was a children’s entertainer who wasn’t the usual and booked me for Patsy's oldest for a show. I was setting up in their living room and Liam walked in "alright mate. I've come to save me guitar." Blazing charisma he had, a proper force. There we were, the King of Brit Pop and The Children’s Choice on a blazing hot summers afternoon eating jelly and talking the showbiz. My career peaked early.
- You’ve also performed for our troops in a variety of warzones, who’s easier to make laugh, civilian audiences or people with guns?
Crowds a crowd mate. I just see the people in front of me and try to deliver the best moments I can, what happens next... no control over. I can tell you standing on the back of a lorry making 150 lads laugh in a warzone was unbelievably humbling.
- Favourite one-liner…
I don't do one liners, you appear to have the wrong bloke. Surreal card trick...?
Danny Buckler will be performing in the Bellerby Studio of G Live on July 27. For more information and to book tickets, visit: guildfordfringefestival.com
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