Damien Warren-Smith: The Man Behind Garry Starr

In this episode, we sit down with award-winning actor, writer and producer Damien Warren-Smith, the creative force behind the brilliantly anarchic alter ego Garry Starr.

From training at the legendary École Philippe Gaulier in Paris to becoming an international comedy sensation, Damien has carved out a unique place in contemporary theatre through his fearless physical comedy, absurdist humour and extraordinary clowning skills.

His multi-award-winning show, Garry Starr: Classic Penguins, sees his outrageous alter ego embark on a wildly ambitious mission to save literature from extinction by performing every Penguin Classic ever written — mostly naked and occasionally wearing flippers! The production has delighted audiences at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, in London's West End and internationally.

We explore the origins of Garry Starr, the art of clowning, the freedom and vulnerability of performing naked on stage, and whether creating Garry was Damien's very own David Bowie–Ziggy Stardust moment. We also discuss the fine line between highbrow literature and gloriously lowbrow comedy, the unpredictability of live performance and what happens when a theatrical alter ego develops a life of his own.

And, of course, we ask the ultimate question: after all these years, who's really in charge – Damien or Garry?

A wonderfully entertaining conversation about creativity, comedy, taking risks and the glorious art of making a complete fool of yourself.