EdFringe Talk: Midnight Building

“We did not come halfway across the world to make people feel sad. What we’ve strived to create is a show that pulls on our audience’s heartstrings, makes them question our character’s moralities, but not without a little laughter and community.”

WHO: Makaio Toft

WHAT: “A selfish hero and a heartless lover battle for the moral high ground. Think you’re a good person? Think again.”

WHERE: Greenside @ Infirmary Street – Mint Studio (Venue 236) 

WHEN: 15:00 (55 min)

MORE: Click Here!


Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

I came to the EdFringe as part of an ensemble show in 2019, and knew I wanted to return ASAP with a show of my own. The shows I saw at the Fringe completely changed my understanding of theatre and remain some of my key inspirations as an artist. I am so thrilled to be returning with a play of my own this year. I hope my work sparks conversations among the audiences that see it, as well as some laughs.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2022 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

To wait for no one to give you permission to go after what you want. Taking a show across the world is no small feat, but I’ve known for a while that taking this play to the EdFringe was something I needed to do. Despite the headaches and stress it has required, I could not be more excited to share this piece of work with the world.

Tell us about your show.

Midnight Building asks its audience to judge if our characters are “good” people. While our play touches on difficult themes and is very personal to our own life experiences, we did not come halfway across the world to make people feel sad. What we’ve strived to create is a show that pulls on our audience’s heartstrings, makes them question our character’s moralities, but not without a little laughter and community.

Aryan and I met about a year ago in a class taught by playwright Steve Drukman, and I was quickly astounded by his ability to tell a story, on the spot, and completely capture my attention. It wasn’t long until we realised we share the same kind of crazy ambition, so before we were even friends, we agreed to take this show to the Fringe. Lucky for us, we’ve now become lifelong collaborators and pals.

What should your audience see at the festivals after they’ve seen your show?

Catherine Cohen: Come For Me

Catherine’s stage presence and ability to weave serious themes into her comedy has been a huge inspiration for my show. I am so lucky to have seen her show live in NYC, and I can’t wait to see it again in Edinburgh!

Police Cops: The Musical

Police Cops has remained one of my biggest comedic inspirations ever since I saw them in 2019. They prove that all you need to have a great time is a wild imagination. I cannot wait to see them (multiple times) this year!


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