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SNL UK’s Larry Dean: ‘That heckle was so harsh it left my heart pounding!’

The Glaswegian standup on joining the ego-less Saturday Night Live, smiling at himself in the mirror and why he’s not slept in his new house

SNL UK’s Larry Dean: ‘That heckle was so harsh it left my heart pounding!’

TL;DR

  • SNL UK operates with a combination of chaos and strong organization, utilizing a highly skilled crew.
  • Sketches undergo a rigorous cutting process, from table reads to post-dress rehearsal meetings, with a focus on collective benefit over individual egos.
  • Larry Dean began his comedy career at university and the open mic circuit, learning to manage finances and travel for gigs.
  • He admires comedians like Billy Connolly, Richard Pryor, Jim Carrey, and Robin Williams.
  • A particularly harsh heckle in Dundee involved a patron stating their dying father was not being cheered up by the performance.
  • Dean's new show, 'Hellbent,' is more sketch-based, character-driven, and 'madder' than his usual material.
  • Pre-show rituals include walking and facial warm-ups, like smiling in a mirror.
  • Edinburgh Comedy Award nominations are not a driving factor when building new shows.
  • The transition from standup to sketch shows requires trusting instincts more, as sketches involve collaborative writing and performance.
  • Dean has recently moved to Manchester but has been unable to sleep in his new house due to SNL commitments.