Helen Bauer on the comedy of self-confidence and self-care

If you’ve seen Helen Bauer, you know about it.

A high status, no-holds-barred, breathless whirlwind, her presence on stage is that of an irresistible and unapologetic comedic powerhouse.

But behind the steamroller delivery and apparent lack of self-awareness, there is nuance and a great deal of self-reflection.

Not only in her standup, but also in her podcast, Trusty Hogs – which she co-hosts with fellow comedian Catherine Bohart – and in her writing too, Bauer is unafraid to be the subject of her own comedic scrutiny.

The 2019 Edinburgh Fringe Best Newcomer nominee has been steadily amassing TV appearances on shows including Late Night Mash (Dave) and Live at the Apollo (BBC One).

In 2022, the pilot episode of her loosely autobiographical sitcom, Small Doses, aired on BBC Three – in which she plays Kate, fired from an au-pair job in Germany, and ‘gate-crashing’ back to her home town of Fleet.

Now on her debut tour around the UK, Bauer is bringing her latest hour to Tobacco Factory Theatres on October 8, with a second show now added on the same day due to extra demand.

Bristol24/7 caught up with her on her travels.

What are you up to right now?

“I’m excited! I have always wanted to tour and it is thrilling to be doing it for the first time.

“As I write this I am on the train to my first show of the tour up in Edinburgh. It’s not going too great; despite doing a show about being a confident woman, as I got on the train I realised a man was in my seat and instead of saying “can I have my seat please?” I just sat in another seat.

“Now I’m just eyeing up my table questioning whether I am confident at all. He is drinking Stella Artois so that is part of the reason for my fear.”

Helen Bauer – photo: James Deacon

Can you describe the background to Madam Good Tit?

“It’s my second full show, and it is an hour about self-confidence, self-esteem and self-care. It’s the year of ‘self’ so I am taking it very literally. Taking care of yourself has never been more ‘in’. Inspirational quotes and face masks are a big industry and, like all my basic friends, I am trying to ‘be the change I want to see’.

“However, self-care – like everything else – is a money-making business. These self-care influencers get you when you are down and you are truly stuck. I have lost so many hours watching Yoga With Adrienne and I am really not convinced ‘putting yourself first’ is the best option for wellness.”

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How would you characterise your style of comedy?

“Absolutely mad, it’s a stream of consciousness punctuated by a slight pause for breath when I feel like I will pass out every 10 minutes. I’m quite confessional too – a nudist for the mind. The main thing that describes it, I hope, is fun.”

What makes you laugh off stage?

“My friends. They are super funny BUT NOT AS FUNNY AS ME. Obvs.”

Helen Bauer – photo: James Deacon

You mined your background for the BBC Three pilot Small Doses. What is your relationship to your childhood, and teenage self today?

“My teenage self? Oh god teenage Helen? Could I tell her off whilst giving her the biggest hug at the same time? I am essentially still a teenage version of myself. Maybe I have a small amount of control now but I still hate feeling misunderstood and am on an emotional rollercoaster at all times. My favourite author is Jaqueline Wilson; I think that says it all.

“Honestly, if I could talk to myself from the past I would say ‘thank you for stories,’ and if it’s me just 10 minutes ago ‘please ask for your seat. You really want that table’.”

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Helen Bauer: Madam Good Tit is at Tobacco Factory Theatres on October 8 at 8pm, with an extra show added at 5pm. Tickets are available from www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com.

Main photo: James Deacon

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