Bella Hull is a comedian and writer based in London. A former member of the Cambridge Footlights, she was named winner of the Yellow Comedy Young Comedian of the Year 2019 and made the finals of Funny Women Stage Award & 2Northdown’s New Act of the Year 2020. We spoke to her about her debut Fringe show ‘Babycakes’.

How have the last few years been for you?

They’ve been totally normal. No global event comes to mind really.

Can you tell us about ‘Babycakes’?

‘Babycakes’ is a show about childhood, growing up, and falling in love. I wanted to do a show that was really authentic to me, which unfortunately means it’s 60 minutes of gossip and jokes about Argos.

Your show touches on some dark subjects like mental health issues and suicide. How do you find the humour in such challenging material, and do you ever have to censor your yourself when writing about potentially controversial topics?

I don’t think comedians should have to censor themselves if the jokes are well written –

I think the punchline is often where you find out what people really think, so as long as the joke doesn’t condone arson or treason, it’s probably fine. I don’t really worry about that, because most of my punchlines are self deprecating. But what do I know? I’m just a stupid, stupid girl.

You’re based in London, considered the central hub for comedy. Does it feel like the scene has changed any since the venues reopened, or has everything largely gone back to normal, for good or ill?

Things have pretty much gone back to normal. I’ve had a couple of gigs that have looked quite socially distanced recently, but it turns out I just didn’t sell very many tickets.

‘Babycakes’ is your debut show. What are your hopes and expectations for the Fringe?

I’d just like for it to not be a complete disaster. Is that realistic?

Beyond ‘Babycakes’, can we expect to see you in some guest spots or compilation shows?

Yes! I’ll be in the Art Laughs show on the 9th of August.

Are there any other acts at the Fringe that you would recommend audiences should see?

Yes – tonnes! There are four million acts debuting this year at Fringe, so I’ll be seeing as many as I can fit in. I’m really excited for Celya AB’s show ‘Swimming’, as well as Erika Ehler’s ‘Femcel’. George Zacharopoulos is also one of my favourites.

Babycakes‘ runs from Wed 3 Aug to Sun 28 Aug 2022 (except Mon 15) at Pleasance Courtyard – Bunker Two @18:55