Larry Owens is a comedian, actor, writer, and singer from Baltimore, Maryland. He’s known for the off-Broadway musical A Strange Loop, and for performances in shows like High Maintenance, Life & Beth, and Modern Love. He brings his debut show, ‘Larry Owens Live’ to the Fringe. We spoke to Larry about the show, being inspired by his comedy contemporaries, and his excitement to connect with Edinburgh audiences.
Can you tell us about ‘Larry Owens Live’?
Of course! This is a stand-up comedy hour with music that use music, pop culture, characters, and a loose framing device to show a moment of time in my professional coming of age. It’s like the funniest hero’s journey you’ll see right now.
You’ve been immersed in musical theatre for a long time, particularly Sondheim, which informs your musical performances. Was there anyone similarly influential in the development of your stand-up?
My comedic influences really have been my contemporaries. When I started performing stand-up in Brooklyn, it was a community of the most vibrant performers. Ruby McCollister, Patti Harrison, Bowen Yang, Ayo Edibiri… these were the people I was watching develop their voices in real time. I remain in awe of these sweet dumplings.
You’re also appearing in the upcoming film Problemista. Can you tell us about that?
Yes, that’s kind of like the last question because Julio Torres is someone who’s originality was so stunning and influential as a friend and fellow performer. Julio’s telling such a real and compelling story but using comedic elements like myself and – I can’t believe I’m writing this– Tilda Swinton to make that story resonate in such a unique way. Without giving too much away, I got to wear the most gorgeous and inventive costumes of my life designed by Catherine George.
‘Live’ is your debut Fringe hour. What are your hopes and expectations for the month?
I’m so excited to connect with audiences. A lot of people will have met me initially on the screen and I’m so grateful for the roles I’ve played on television. This show, however, puts me in the position of vulnerability that I haven’t been allowed yet onscreen. So I’m excited for people to see me as this version of myself that possesses the skillset to do stand up comedy and also sing with Olympic fervor.
Beside ‘Live’, can we expect to see you performing elsewhere during August?
Yes, I’ll be popping up at all sorts of venues. Best way to find out is to follow me on socials @larryowenslive
Apart from your show, what else are you looking forward to (or even perhaps dreading) about the Fringe? After performing in some very prestigious productions, are you expecting any culture shock?
I’m so excited for the UK audiences. I think it’s going to be a match made in heaven. Until then, I’m just trying to contain my excitement and prepare my voice and body to deliver these shows to you. They’re quite athletic!
Are there any other acts at the Fringe that you would recommend audiences see?
Ruby McCollister, Catherine Cohen, Greta Titleman!!!!!!!
‘Larry Owens Live’ runs from Wed 2 Aug to Sun 27 Aug 2023 (apart from Mon 14) at Assembly Roxy – Upstairs at 20:35