Three-time Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee Larry Dean is stepping into the spotlight with his largest UK tour to date, bringing his signature wit, charm, and a touch of Elvis-inspired flair to audiences nationwide. In Dodger, Dean delves into personal stories about his granny, his recent autism diagnosis, and his journey as a comedian. Speaking candidly with Mark Wareham, Dean reveals the inspirations behind his latest show and shares insights into the highs and lows of life on the road, along with the unexpected power of comedy to connect, heal, and entertain.

Tour Dates

Here is our Quick-Fire Q&A

1. Where are you today?
   I just played London Bloomsbury. Fun show, but coming down after is always tough.
2. How’s the tour going so far?
   It’s exhausting but worth it for the energy on stage.
3. What’s life like after a gig? Rock ‘n’ roll?
   More like peppermint tea and Netflix. I try to avoid hangovers for the next gig!
4. Do you have a support act?
   Sometimes I open for myself; it feels like we bond before the main show.
5. What’s the story behind the title Dodger?
   Elvis called his gran Dodger, and it fits with my gran’s life story.
6. Is Dodger about your gran?
   Yes, it’s partly about her dementia and things I didn’t know about it.
7. What’s your link to Elvis?
   I was a big fan as a kid and even performed as a child Elvis impersonator in Tenerife.
8. Any footage of that Elvis performance?
   Thankfully, no! I’m glad my parents didn’t have a camcorder.
9. What’s your angle on autism in the show?
   I question and reflect on my recent diagnosis and how traits can be linked to life experiences.
10. How would you describe your personality?
    Ultimately, I’m a Nanny’s boy. That sums me up better than any label.
11. Did you always want to be a comedian?
    Not exactly, but I always loved being funny.
12. How do you prepare for a show? Script or notes?
    I use notes. Once I remember the show, I start improvising, which brings out the best stuff.
13. Are you active on social media and TikTok?
    I am, but it’s a full-time job now with all the filming, editing, and managing content.
14. Comedy heroes?
    Richard Pryor, Robin Williams, Jim Carrey, and, of course, Billy Connolly.
15. Enjoyed your time on TV?
    Loved Mock the Week and Live at the Apollo. Stand-up is my favourite, though.
16. Thoughts on YouTube comics playing big venues?
    It’s impressive. I took the long route by doing clubs before going online.
17. Favourite cities to perform in?
    Bristol and London. London has an international crowd, which I love.
18. How about home gigs in Glasgow?
    Nerve-wracking! Bad reviews spread fast in Glasgow – even through distant relatives.
19. Biggest misconception about touring?
    People think it’s all parties, but it’s mostly exhausting.
20. What’s next for you?
    Just getting through this tour and seeing where the stories take me!