“Don’t let your joy or experience of the fringe be stripped or altered by someone else’s perceived successes or failures. Their work is their own, and yours is yours.”
WHO: Samantha Ipema
WHAT: “The award-winning 2024 smash-hit is back – bigger, bolder and more visceral than ever. Based on Creator Sam Ipema’s real-life experiences, this darkly comic, deeply heartfelt show dares you to find comedy in the chaos of the unknown. Hailed as ‘masterly’ (Stage) and shortlisted for BBC Popcorn New Writing Award, expect immersive soundscapes, full 90s nostalgia and a glimpse into the liminal space of the mind. With Director and Dramaturg James Meteyard (WILDCARD) and Olivier-nominated Sound Designer, Dan Balfour.”
WHERE: Pleasance Two at Pleasance Courtyard (Venue 33)
WHEN: 12:00 (60 min)
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Is this your first time to Edinburgh?
No, it’s my second! We actually brought the first iteration of the show last year as my and its debut year. But this year we’re very excited to be at Pleasance with the new iteration. The festival is such an incredible place to launch, debut, and test new work — whether it be a new iteration or a new piece altogether — so we’re thrilled to be back and trying it out with new and returning audience members.
As a writer, I think that Edinburgh fringe is one of the best places you can try out new ideas. I also think as a performer, its an incredible experience via a sort of “trial by fire” and really will shape an understanding of the craft and stamina required for a long run. But as a producer, I will say that while it is magical and certainly has the ability to put your company’s name on the map, it is a tough playground and expensive sandbox to play in. Which isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it is something to be aware of. And as an audience member? What better way to spend a few days on holiday in the summer?!
What are the big things you’ve learned since 2024 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?
So many. How much time do you have…? But I can try to distill it down to a few points. First— treat your team well, because it’s their extra time, love, and effort that is going to make your show get to that extra little level that is required to make it stand out and be a unique experience for an audience member. Second— don’t get caught up in the competition. I think it can feel like a comparative environment, seeing other shows get traction, stars and reviews, and/or industry interest. So for that, I would say just stick to your lane and focus on what you came to do. If it’s getting audiences excited about your piece, then focus on that. If its to get a new agent, focus on that. Don’t let your joy or experience of the fringe be stripped or altered by someone else’s perceived successes or failures. Their work is their own, and yours is yours. Easier said than done, but it’s the best way to also get to enjoy and celebrate others work, apart from your own, which is an important part of the experience and being fed as an inspired artist as well.
See as much as you can, is my final advice. But also… rest. I know that’s contradictory and I’d probably roll my eyes reading this. So I’ll adjust it to— prioritize yourself, self care, and rest for the piece’s wellbeing and your own. But then go out and see new things and make new friends. Those connections can bud into exciting collaborations and at the very least, you’ll leave more open and inspired by other’s weird quirky brains and art than when you came.
Tell us about your show.
I wrote it! And my company is producing it! Yikes! The show is about my life at age 20 when I was a lost little mess of a human and the rollercoaster journey it took to “finding myself” over nearly a decade. It’s a really delight to wear all the different hats on it. But, would I recommend wearing all those hats? Not really. If it’s what’s necessary in order to get the piece out there in the way you want though, then yes. Absolutely. It’s a wonderful, crazy ride with many opportunities to learn alongside.
We’re hoping to take the piece internationally following the Fringe and also hoping to find a new and bigger home and production company for it to help get to the next level. All very ambitious stuff. But I think the piece has universal themes that are important and have been resonating far beyond those with personal experiences like mine. So, we will see! Fingers crossed.
What should your audience see at the festivals after they’ve seen your show?
As many things as possible. Go see something completely different afterwards like circus performance, some clowning, some improv… see it ALL. But, for specific recommendations, I would say—
Xhloe & Natasha’s work @ The Space is amazing. They’re rotating all 3 of their shows this year. Brown Girls Do It Too: Mama Told Me Not To Come @ Underbelly — I don’t know their work personally but I’ve heard whisperings about it and am excited to see it.
Otherwise, I’d say get there and follow your nose really.
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