Episode #506: Elf Lyons

Elf Lyons is a British comedian and writer who performs in both the worlds of stand-up and clown, having studied in France with the late Phillippe Goulier. Her 2017 show, Swan, received a nomination for Best Show at the Edinburgh Fringe, while her 2024 show, Horses, earned Best Show from both The (ISH) Edinburgh Comedy Awards and The Comedians’ Choice Awards. Her newest show, The Woman on The Edge, was the best-reviewed show of the 2026 Edinburgh Fringe, and earned her “Spirit of the Fringe” honors from The List, Scotland’s biggest arts and entertainment guide. Lyons is making her American debut with an off-Broadway run at New York City’s SoHo Playhouse, starting Sept. 24, 2026. She’s also teaching intensive workshops on clowning and bouffon techniques this fall at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre. Before all of that, though, Lyons sat down with me over Zoom to discuss why she compares herself to an A24 film, her shows to concept albums, the importance of a strong work ethic, and how the Fringe has changed since the pandemic. There’s a lot to get to, so let’s get to it!