TGt Meets... Sally Anne Hayward

We've been speaking to Sally Anne Hayward about life as a comedian and what you can expect from her show at Komedia on July 4th!

What can the Komedia audience expect from your show? 

It’s an hour of stand up comedy.  No frills.  Just funny.  I hope.

How did you discover that you could tell a good joke/story? 

I come from an entertainment family which gave me an insight into the job as such.  I then did a degree in drama and theatre studies with the intent to be an actress.  Within that degree were two modules: storytelling and stand-up comedy.  I really took to these modules and enjoyed being on stage alone telling stories.  It went from there.

Where did the inspiration for your show come from?

I’m very tired of the victim society that we have become.  Everyone seems to have a label which some people interpret as being a get out of jail card for bad behaviour.  It totally takes the emphasis away from people who genuinely need help. It drives me nuts.  Take some responsibility for yourself will you.

What do you miss about home when you’re on tour/working away?

Everything.  My home, my friends, the local coffee shops, I don’t know – everything.

Do you think that your comedy routines have changed much over the years?

Yes, quite a bit.  As I get older I grow into my opinions more.  The fatigue of the victim mentality has become a strong focus of my life and it has come into my comedy.

Who were your comedy idols while growing up?

Joan Rivers.

When you’re not on stage, how do you like to spend your free time?

I do a lot of yoga which makes me sound like a w*nker.  I see my boyfriend.  I see my friends.  I like to hang out at home alone a lot.

What would you say some of your career highlights have been?

Just doing this job and being paid for it is a massive high.  Of course travelling abroad with the job, being able to play the Hammersmith Apollo, compering at Glastonbury Festival are highs but just doing it is a pretty good high.

What advice would you give to someone looking to pursue a career as a comedian? 

Write, get up and perform.  And do this again and again.  Just work hard and get better.  And remember that you have never cracked comedy.  You’re always learning.

What’s next for you after the Edinburgh Previews?

Edinburgh Festival.

Sally Anne Hayward is at Komedia on July 4th. For further information or to get tickets click here.