“The inspiration I have gotten from the past 3 years of going to the fringe can`t really be measured.”
WHO: Duane Forrest
WHAT: “Join Duane Forrest on an acoustic journey through the roots of reggae to the global influence of Bob Marley. Experience acoustic renditions of legendary reggae songs that have reshaped countless lives, including Duane’s own. From the origin of reggae to Marley’s transcendent legacy, immerse yourself in the soulful melodies and transformative power of this iconic music. Audience members are invited to sing along and get involved in this interactive musical experience.”
WHERE: ZOO Playground – Playground 1 (Venue 186)
WHEN: 21:30 (60 min)
MORE: Click Here!
Is this your first time to Edinburgh?
No, this is actually my 4th time! Every year I complain how difficult it is – only surfing is more difficult than putting a show on at the fringe – but, I keep coming back. I love it. There is something even greater than the struggles of putting a show on, the debt accumulated. Connecting with performers and creators from literally all around the world, being inspired by their work, sharing nuggets with each other from our separate journeys and seeing that we all are walking similar roads in a way – this is what makes it magical being at the Fringe. It`s what makes it worth it.
What are the big things you’ve learned since 2023 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?
That less is certainly more. That flyering 4 hours a day destroys me, but seeing more shows from around the world fills me. The inspiration I have gotten from the past 3 years of going to the fringe can`t really be measured. It’s expanded my mind, pushed me to my limits and help me break out of my own boxes. Reviews are another great way to go, each year when you bring work (hopefully) a reviewer comes to see your work, and I have been able to use that feedback to tweak my shows and get them in the best shape they can be.
Tell us about your show.
Bob Marley: How Reggae Changed the World is not just a tribute show, it’s actually the story of how reggae came to be and how Bob was instrumental in bringing it to the world, but also how he helped me connect back with my roots. I am a Jamaican-Canadian born and raised in Toronto, Canada. It was weird growing up, he helped me find my way.
I wrote and perform the show. This piece came together from me noticing that after I performed some of Bob’s songs and spoke to audiences afterwards about them, I found out that they did not actually know some key stories behind the music, the history of Jamaica and what the heart of reggae is.
I have been invited to perform the show in Taiwan at Kaohsiung Weiwuying + Taitung Arts Festival August 28 – September 3rd, 2024! I am so over the moon with this news!
What should your audience see at the festivals after they’ve seen your show?
Steve Porters presents How To Mate by Daisy Doris May, a very dope drag king show! I`ve seen a sneak peak of the show in London before they bring it to the fringe and you`ll love it.
Dark Noon is a perfect example of why theatre exists – I have never been so impacted by work on stage like I was during that show! I can`t describe more of it without ruining the experience, but trust me, it is special. You will literally laugh, cry, question your own politics and world view. Go see it!
LIKE WHAT YOU JUST READ? FOLLOW US ON TWITTER! OR SIGN UP TO OUR MAILING LIST!
INTERESTED IN BEING INTERVIEWED TOO? CLICK HERE!
Get Your Coats On 