ROTIMI IGE caught up with fast rising comedian, Dr Frick, where he spoke about his craft and plans for the future.
About myself
My name is Fred Otite a.k.a Dr. Frick. I am the first of four kids. I’m half caste because my father hails from Delta State while my mother, is from Oyo State. I have a BSc. Ed Biology from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife. I’m currently studying for masters and Ph.D in money and impact making from the University of life. Both my parents were once lecturers and they already thought I would follow suit but I followed jacket (laughter).
Discovering my talent
I can’t even remember discovering my talent. I think my talent discovered me. I have been a comic all my life considering events in it; from the days of secondary school jokes to gradually hosting shows to doing stand up gigs. My talent discovered me and then I discovered myself.
Parents support?
Parents’ support! My father understood due to his liberal nature but my mum, a yoruba educated Christian? Support comedy? Laye. But eventually, when the Lord turned around the captivity of Zion… Even my mum started giving me materials. I do observational, topical and improve comedy. I also do a bit of musical comedy.
My stage name
My stage name is from my name “FredeRICK. The doctor is because I studied medicine education. Well… I’m a doctor who uses humour as therapy. Several people have been cured of depression, sadness, idiopathy…
My mentors
On the home scene, Basketmouth, Bovi, Okey Bakassi, Gordons and Owen gee. On the global scene, Russell Peters, Aries spears, Eddie Griffin and Kevin Hart.
My content
My content is influenced majorly by the fusion of who I am in Christ and events around me. So my message is always that of hope. I try to use my gift to discourage vices and encourage virtues, to create a better society.
About content copy writes
When others copy my materials, my reaction depends on how they deliver it and where they use it. It hurts when comedians destroy materials belonging to others. And a material might not hurt but lifting a whole routine… That’s murder to the victim’s career.
Inspiration
An open mind and sharpened wit with meditation and prayers. Materials come at will naturally at times. And there are also seasons of drought. So one liners and Spontaneity come in handy.
About my maiden show
Yes, My maiden show is coming up. FRICKING MOMENTS. and this edition is tagged #hifrickuency. It’s a comedy special. The first of its kind in Oyo State. I will be holding my audience to 60 minutes non stop humour. And there’s going be a couple of brothers to spice it up. It’s the real standup that will make you stand up on the 14th of August, 2016 live at the Filmhouse cinemas, Heritage mall.
My message through comedy
Well, making impact is inevitable and non negotiable because my passion and vision is second to none. I live a purpose driven life with comedy as tool to actualizing that purpose. The population in the industry moves me not. I’ll focus on my strength and uniqueness. And by God’s grace, we will make an impact and change the game eventually.
Most memorable events
From Laffmattaz with Gbenga Adeyinka the 1st, to Dr Smile Unusual to Peteru unleashed, 90s meet Millennium season 2 and specially, Joy unspeakable. These are platforms have brought me in collaboration with the likes of Gbenga Adeyinka 1st, lepacious Bose, Seyi Law, Bash, Omo baba #1, Olu Maintain, Daddy showkey, African China, Queen Salawa Abeni, Chief Muslim Haruna Ishola, Ycee, Small doctor, Sean Tizzle, Evans, Dr. Bola Are… I may not be able to exhaust the list.
Future aspirations
In 5 years, I see myself as a great influence and force to reckon with internationally. I see myself as a trendsetter, Frontier and game changer. I see my brand as one of the best. And I see myself as the richest in my field.
What makes me unique
Dr. Frick is unique because of his rare sense of humour, Spontaneity, creativity and originality, good dress sense and good command of English language, and also high moral standard. My brand is based on integrity and quality service delivery.
Last words…
That would come in some 70+ years. But for now, give God his position which is first, do his will, work and pray Because no food for lazy man, follow me on Instagram and twitter @doctorfrick, like me on Facebook /Doctor Frick. Keep supporting me and I won’t let you down. God bless you.
and then