From Farmer to Funny: Grant Barr’s Comedy Journey from the Cabaret to the Edinburgh Fringe

I'm Michael Porter — Irish comic, festival veteran, and the man behind The Good, The Bad & The Irish and The Comedy Cellar, Edinburgh’s only 5-star customer-rated comedy club. I’ve been doing the Fringe for over 15 years now, and trust me — it’s changed. Some say for the better. I say... the jury’s still out.

What hasn’t changed is my mission: to spotlight proper comics with grit, bite, and a bit of madness. This blog series is a backstage pass to the real shows worth seeing at the 2025 Edinburgh Fringe — no influencers, no panel show fluff. Just comics with something to say and the balls to say it.

Behind the Scenes of the Edinburgh Fringe: A Chat with Grant Barr

I sat down with Grant Barr ahead of his Fringe Preview show tomorrow night at The Comedy Cellar in Edinburgh.

Grant Barr is a rising comedic voice hailing from the Kingdom of Fife. He is known for his rough-around-the-edges charm and agricultural anecdotes. These stories resonate with both rural and city folk. With his semi-final appearance in So You Think You’re Funny? under his belt, he’s earned respect as a genuine storyteller. He celebrates farming life without apology. Expect unfiltered humour, a farmer’s wit, and a stage presence that feels as fresh and raw as Scotland itself.

TICKETS

Meet Grant Barr

Who Are You and Where Are You From?

I’m Grant Barr from Fife.

What First Got You Into Comedy? Was it a Moment, a Meltdown, or Just Madness?

I used to do cabaret with the Young Farmers. It was a mix of singing, dancing, and trying to make people laugh. The only part I enjoyed was trying to make people laugh. That’s where it all started.

Who Were Your Early Comedy Influences?

The obvious one is Kevin Bridges. He’s always been my favourite comedian. I really enjoyed reading his book. Also, Jim Smith, who came through the Young Farmers and went on to massive things.

Describe Your First Gig. How Bad Was It? Or Were You One of Those Annoying Naturals?

Mine was a bit strange compared to the standard open mic. I performed on the Perth Concert Hall stage to around 500 people as an in-between act at a Young Farmers cabaret. Everyone said it was great — but years later, I saw a video of it. Trust me, it wasn’t great! After that, I discovered there was an online comedy community and went from there.

What’s Been Your Best Gig Moment So Far?

That’s a tricky one. My best moment speaking was at my best friend’s wedding as best man. Being able to use the skills I’d picked up from comedy in that moment was incredibly rewarding.

And Your Worst? The One You Still Wake Up Sweating About?

I went to a gong show in Manchester and bombed. Four hours each way! It really got me down. But I’ve done it twice now, so I guess that shows resilience.

How Would You Describe Your Style of Comedy?

Silly storytelling. It’s my style, and it resonates with my audience.

What’s Your Writing Process Like?

It’s a mess. That’s one thing I want to improve on. I sit in a tractor all day thinking of silly stuff, then write it down and try to run it through on stage.

Do You Think Comedy is Changing?

Not at all. Comedians are evolving all the time. The comedy landscape is changing rapidly, just like the world around it. You have to keep up or you’ll get left behind, especially with everything being so accessible.

What’s the Biggest Challenge Comedians Are Facing Right Now?

Social media. It’s now a core part of how comedians market themselves. You can build a career entirely through it.

What’s Your Take on Edinburgh?

I love it. It’s chaotic and mental. It shows everything that’s both good and bad about this wonderful thing we do.

Are You Gigging with Any Friends This Year?

I’m gigging with two friends — George Anderson and Liam Jackson. We did a show last year that went reasonably well, so I hope it’s the same this year.

Tell Us About Your Edinburgh Fringe Show

It’s a show at 10 pm in the Wee Room of The Three Sisters every night with Laughing Horse at Free Fringe. It’s a triple-threat comedy show featuring three very different styles. Hopefully, there’s something for everyone. And if there’s one you don’t like — don’t worry, they won’t be on too long! It’s called 0 AD: After Dusk.

Find Grant Barr Online

You can find Grant's updates and shows on social media.

• TikTok: @therunningfmr

• Instagram: @grantbarr

  
  

But preferably... you’ll find him in the pub!

Remember, for the best comedy experience at the Fringe, make sure to check out The Comedy Cellar.