F E S T I VA L F E AT U R E S | Female Impressionists T H E I M I TAT I O N G
Wherever you look (and listen), this year’s Fringe is jam-packed with and well in Edinburgh and women are leading the way. Here we P H O T O
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ST E F F TO D D N AO M I M C D O N A L D
Do you prefer to be called impersonator, impressionist, mimic, or something else entirely? Comedian and impressionist. But I don’t mind! What was the first impression you ever attempted? Cheryl, when she was judging on The X Factor: this was before I started doing stand-up. I uploaded the video online and got an awesome reaction. I still include her in my stand-up routine: it’s one of my favourites. What is the finest impersonation you’ve ever heard by someone else? I think Debra Stephenson doing Davina McCall is legendary. Is there one impersonation that you’ve tried and tried, but just cannot quite get right? I’m still working on Holly Willoughby. Some do take longer than others but I’m determined to keep going with her! Who is your favourite impersonator working today? I’d say Al Foran. He’s very unique, puts out amazing content and has built up a huge fanbase. He is one to watch. n Steff Todd: Reality Check, Just the Tonic at The Caves, 3–25 Aug (not 12), 2pm, £5 in advance or donations at the venue.
Do you prefer to be called impersonator, impressionist, mimic, or something else entirely? Voice magician. What was the first impression you ever attempted? Aged ten I did impressions of Jerry Springer guests to my parents and they loved it, particularly the swearing bits which I would censor out myself during the impression.
What is the finest impersonation you’ve ever heard by someone else? Alistair McGowan’s take-off of Richard Madeley was so good; I sometimes think back to the clip and wonder if that was actually just the real Richard Madeley.
Is there one impersonation that you’ve tried and tried, but just cannot quite get right? My dad Mac McDonald. I have tried my entire life and have never gotten even close.
Who is your favourite impersonator working today? I couldn’t possibly choose one! But Jon Culshaw, Rory Bremner, Kristen Wiig and Alistair McGowan always slay in my books. n Naomi McDonald: Copycat, Just the Tonic at The Caves, 3–25 Aug (not 12, 19), 8.50pm, £10–£12 (£8–£10). Previews 1 & 2 Aug, £5.
24 THE LIST FESTIVAL 31 Jul–7 Aug 2019