David Epley aka Doktor Kaboom is an actor, comedian and scientist who entertains family audiences through top-notch live comedy, with a science twist. We caught up with him to find out more about his forthcoming show, Under Pressure, coming to this year’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
How would you pitch Doktor Kaboom for fans of science and science fiction?
Fans of science love the fact that I know what I’m talking about and am able to present it with intelligent comedy in ways audiences can understand. No “magic”, no condescension, there are even easter egg jokes that science nerds will love but others might not even know are there! They also get to see friends and family members who think they don’t like science become fellow fans. Sci-fi fans will love the characterization of Doktor Kaboom and the comic allusions to our favourite shows and books that might pop up unexpectedly.
And how would you pitch it to someone who doesn’t really like practical demonstrations?
I don’t do practical demonstrations as most people think of them. I’m performing comedy routines. If anything my practical demos may be better described as impractical! I mean, how practical is shooting a ping pong ball into a gong at 300 mph?
How is Under Pressure different from previous shows?
I’ve always included moments of empowerment for my audiences, especially the volunteers. This show is the first time I’ve focused on a particular subject, something I have seen a strong need for. I’m using the physics of pressure as metaphor for the stresses and anxieties of life. I’m hoping to open up conversations within families and give them a shared vocabulary to use.
What’s your most incredible science fact?
My favourite right now is that we have the most taste buds we’ll ever have when we are born, and we lose them throughout our lives. This is because most plants that are toxic to us are fairly bitter, and as babies and toddlers we put everything into our mouths. With all of those taste buds, the bitter stands out strongly and we spit out what’s toxic. It also affects how everything tastes and why taste changes over our lifetimes. This means that when a child tells you broccoli tastes bad, they’re right! Because it absolutely does. To them.
How does science fiction help improve the world?
Sci Fi is the imaginative process of what can be, based on scientific discoveries. Almost everything we take for granted in terms of our daily technology was first conceptualised in science fiction. The internet, the cell phone, tablets, airplanes, etc. etc. etc. – all were creations of artistic fantasy long before they were possibilities, much less reality.
What key idea or message helped you develop this show?
I noticed after the pandemic that the children of the world had been psychologically traumatised by the shutdowns, and that no one was talking about it. Self harm is on the rise among young people, as is anxiety, depression, and just about every other mental health issue, and there is no awareness or leadership at a national level anywhere! Families and teachers are left on their own and no one is giving them tools. So I am.
Why the Edinburgh Fringe, again and again?
I am addicted. It is the hardest month of my year, but also the most glorious. The audiences are brilliant and supportive, my venue The Pleasance exceptional in their support, and I get the thrill of meeting, seeing, and befriending amazing performers from all over the world!
What is your favourite moment in the show?
Anytime my volunteer takes over the focus and I get to step back and watch them shine! As far as specific moments, well, I love making it snow on stage.
What’s next?
I filmed the show recently to pitch to streaming networks, like Netflix, as a comedy special for the whole family. Once the editing is done, then I’ll be trying to figure out how to make that happen.
Doctor Who or Doctor No?
WHO! TARDIS and a sonic screwdriver FTW! And psychic paper! Pure genius.
Rick or Morty?
LOL Rick. I love pickles.
Truth or Beauty?
Is it too hacky to say that truth is beauty? Yes, yes it is. So, I’ll say Truth, hands down.
Doktor Kaboom!’s new show ‘Under Pressure’ will be at the Pleasance Courtyard Beyond at 1.40pm for the entire fringe; for tickets go to www.edfringe.com
Check out our features on 2025’s Top Returning shows, and our keenly anticipated picks of new shows.
