Author Archives: Dan Lentell

EdFringe Talk: My Mother Doesn’t Know I’m Kinky

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

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“During the pandemic, I felt a strong yearning to pick up the material again. My relationship with my mother has evolved and so have I.”

WHO: Jean Franzblau

WHAT: “A sexy story filled with drama and comedy, love and lust. Jean’s mom liked her new boyfriend and was disappointed when the two broke up. As close as she is to her mother, Jean can’t bring herself to explain the reason: She’d have to reveal that she’s a very kinky girl. She explores the early childhood hints that she was wired differently and shares her bumpy, awkwardly arousing journey towards self-acceptance. Ultimately, mama gets an earful. Featured on Playboy Radio and selected Top Ten in LA by Stage Raw. ‘Beautifully written; perfectly balanced’ (NoHoArtsDistrict.com).”

WHERE: theSpace @ Niddry St – Lower Theatre (Venue 9) 

WHEN: 22:15 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

I felt drawn to EdFringe like a magnet this year. I’m actually not typically someone who takes huge financial risks and flies halfway across the world. But that’s what I’m doing. What kind of spell has the EdFringe put on me! I can’t wait to be immersed in the diverse, creative environment and am honored that I get to be a part of it. Watch out EdFringe, here comes my kinky show!

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2023 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

My mission is to shift the culture to a more compassionate world – whether it’s as a consent expert at universities, an intimacy professional for TV, film and theatre, a teacher of cuddle therapy, or the performer of “My Mother Doesn’t Know I’m Kinky.” In 2023, I got this gut feeling that now is not the time to hold back. Whatever my gift is to the world, I need to give it now. My show is the best I have to offer distilled down to a whiskey shot of love. I’m bringing myself right to your doorstep to deliver it. Meet me there!

Tell us about your show.

My Mother Doesn’t Know I’m Kinky is an award-winning sexy story filled with drama and comedy, love and lust. It’s written by Jean Franzblau (that’s me) and is produced by Fringe Management. The show used to be called Coming Out Kinky. It was developed and directed by Karen Aschenbach and performed in cities including Los Angeles, Chicago and San Francisco.

During the pandemic, I felt a strong yearning to pick up the material again. My relationship with my mother has evolved and so have I. This resulted in a cascade of re-writes and creative activity for the past 22 months. The show is funnier, deeper and sexier than ever. The production is making its European premiere at EdFringe and is available to tour after.

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

I’m excited to see Toni Nagy’s Grape Culture and Ben Kassoy’s The Funny Thing About a Panic Attack. I’ve seen and definitely recommend A Transcriber’s Tale.

And here’s something else exciting. Torrey Shine is putting together free solo show compilations at the Brew Doghouse Hotel. She welcomes us to start each morning with her curated variety showcase featuring the very best solo shows at the Fringe! Rotating daily line-ups include storytelling, theatre, clown, cabaret, spoken word and comedy. We’ll laugh, cry, and feel – while sampling several solo shows at once, in this one hour compilation series. Doesn’t that sound great?

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EdFringe Talk: The Last Laugh

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“Directing a play at the Fringe can be challenging because of the restrictions but I loved the camaraderie between all the different performers and creatives.”

WHO: Paul Hendy

WHAT: “The Last Laugh sees three legendary comedians – Tommy Cooper, Eric Morecambe and Bob Monkhouse – sitting in a dressing room, discussing the secret of life, death, comedy and what it means to be funny. Written and directed by the award-winning Paul Hendy and starring Edinburgh Fringe-legend Bob Golding as Morecambe, Damian Williams as Cooper and Simon Cartwright as Monkhouse, The Last Laugh is warm, funny, nostalgic and poignant. Not to be missed.”

WHERE: Assembly George Square Studios – Studio One (Venue 17) 

WHEN: 13:20 (70 min)

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Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

No, The Last Laugh will be my second time directing at the fringe and my first time as a writer. I can’t wait to bring the play to Edinburgh as I’m such a huge fan of the festival. Last year, I directed ‘Lena’, a play with music about the tragic life of child star, Lena Zavaroni. I loved the whole Fringe experience. Directing a play at the Fringe can be challenging because of the restrictions but I loved the camaraderie between all the different performers and creatives.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2023 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

The biggest lesson I learnt was that your play/show has to be something that people want to see. It sounds obvious but the audiences have so much choice so I think the subject matter of the show has to try to entice people in. Hopefully we have that with The Last Laugh

Tell us about your show.

It’s a brand new play. In it, three legendary comedians, Tommy Cooper, Eric Morecambe and Bob Monkhouse sit in a dressing room discussing the secret of life, death, comedy and what it means to be funny… really funny! It’s warm, nostalgic and poignant. I wrote ‘The Last Laugh’ and I’m also directing and producing it. I based the story on a short film I directed a few years ago which did very well on the film festival circuit – it won Best Film at the Manchester Film Festival, Best Comedy Drama at the Los Angeles Independent Film Festival and the Audience Award at the Oxford Film Festival. I’m a huge comedy fan and I think anyone who loves comedy will love this play. We’re planning a UK tour of the play in 2025.

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

We’re also producing a totally different show called ‘Shantify’ – a group of West End leading men sing show tunes, rock classics and pop bangers in the style of sea-shanties. The singers are all incredibly talented; it’s brilliant fun and I think people at the Fringe will really enjoy it.

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EdFringe Talk: Stuart Laws Has to Be Joking?

Posted in *Written Interviews, Bedfringe 2024 by

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“I’ve learnt that a frog can jump seventeen times their height, even if they’re short and unfit.”

WHO: Stuart Laws

WHAT: “Last year Stuart started telling the truth on stage and was diagnosed autistic: he got the best reviews he’s ever got and his show was a must-see. He’s back baby! And has to lean into it further. It’s funny, it’s real, it’s immaculately structured and it’s a chance to see a comedian at the top of his game. As heard on Off Menu and seen on BBC, Prime and 800 Pound Gorilla. **** ½ (Chortle.co.uk). **** (List). ‘You’ll struggle to find a comedian with a better jokes-per-minute rate’ **** (Fest).”

WHERE: Monkey Barrel Comedy (The Hive) – Hive 2 (Venue 313) 

WHEN: 16:45 (60 min)

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Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

NO WAY! I been doing it for years, have seen so many FringexOlympics years hit hard – the class of 2012 battling to get an audience when the judo is on, the struggles when you knew you were up against dressage or the men’s 20km walking race. I tell you what makes a great festival? Sports not happening. Can we, for just four long, long weeks – not have any sports so that the general public can focus on their real passion: fringe theatre and comedy

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2023 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

I learnt this: I am autistic. That’s a genuine learning since the start of last year’s fringe. However, if you want a more whimsical answer: I’ve learnt that a frog can jump seventeen times their height, even if they’re short and unfit. So would absolutely dominate any sort of high jump or long jump event if they were scaled up to human height. I’ve also learnt you can say any fact about a frog and most people will just believe it: the stakes aren’t high enough to check.

Tell us about your show.

I wrote my show, ain’t no one else got any piece of this pie. I’m a genius and unaffected by the work of others. So tough being a tortured genius like myself. Especially when extremely talented people offer me their thoughts or jokes or directing advice and it would actively enhance my show. Because I have to look them in the eyes and tell them they’re wrong and toxic to contribute and I’ll never take their advice.

Also: a beautiful team of people in production and PR and helping to write a stand up comedy show about relationships by someone who has just found out that he is autistic and everything he thought he knew about himself isn’t really true – so what does that mean for relationships with himself, friends, romance and ultimately the audience?

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

I love stand up comedy and I love finding out about a new comedian who I didn’t know anything about before the fringe. Going to dungeons and backrooms and theatres across Edinburgh and spending an hour in someone else’s world is such a treat – especially when it’s brilliant comedians like Chloe Radcliffe, Alex Kealy, Pierre Novellie, Harriet Kemsley, Ruby Carr or Jin Hao Li. Those last two are doing their debut shows this year and I’ve been lucky enough to see early versions and loved both, even more luckily I’m directing Ruby’s and it keeps getting better.

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EdFringe Talk: Mutant Olive 2.0

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

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“When you get hordes of artists creating their own content, through their own filter & insanely unique vision of the world — it’s explosive!”

WHO: Mitch Hara

WHAT: “(Mommy’s a whore, Daddy’s a hitman). Laugh, cry and see God in this award-winning solo show by writer/performer Mitch Hara. Strap yourself in for a heart-wrenching rollercoaster ride you’ll never forget, featuring sex, drugs, disco balls and blackouts. All during an audition for Hamilton Unplugged. Directed by Carlyle King. ‘Genius! Run!’ ***** (LA Times). ‘Insanely entertaining’ ***** (IndieWire.com). ‘Dark and seductive’ ***** (StageRaw.com). ‘Hilarious!’ ***** (BroadwayWorld.com). Winner: Best Show, Hollywood Fringe. United SoloFest NYC. Whitefire Solofest. ‘Hilarious and heartbreaking’ ***** (TheaterMania.com).”

WHERE: Gilded Balloon Patter House – Nip (Venue 24) 

WHEN: 13:40 (60 min)

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Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

OMG. I love the creative tornado embracing the artists & supporters. We’re in this together. There’s an electrical current & community of excitement, expectation & effervescence sweeping the Fringe!!! I’ve been involved and won “Best Solo Show” in the Hollywood Fringe, Whitefire SoloFest, UnitedSoloFest NYC. I mean, when you get hordes of artists creating their own content, through their own filter & insanely unique vision of the world — it’s explosive! My moto is: i never wait for 12 people to give me permission to do what i love. Boom baby!! Life is short and so am I. Live theatre is my heart and soul. Sharing my world with an audience is my passion. It’s why I’m here, to effect people with my humor and heart!

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2023 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

I’ve learned to celebrate my uniqueness and I’ve gown fascinated by myself. I actually love everyone’s reaction to me. Everyone says, I move molecules when I walk in a room. That I disturb the peace. And I’ve also realized, I can’t give two shits about what anybody else thinks about what I’m doing, saying or being. And yes, I’ve absorbed the lessons. The closer I get to death; I just don’t care about the tidbits of nonsense. Plus, why would you put your healthy self-image in somebody else’s dysfunctional hands. Why would you give away your power. But you know, that’s me. Follow me on TicTok @mitch.hara & insta @mitch.hara

Tell us about your show.

It’s about my life, my baggage, my scars, my insanity, my growth, my triggers, my irreverence, my elevation to amazing!!! I wrote it, i lived it, i survived it, I’m taking it on parade and showing the immediate world my emotional roller coaster of a ride to becoming me!!

My parents were speed-freak alcoholics and in the mafia. hence the subtitle, “Mommy’s a Whore, Daddy’s a hitman” and you know, you become what you see. So, I’m a little slutty and if you piss me off, I may hit you with my car. You’ll laugh, cry and see God. I’m you’re designated drunk driver, so hop in mutherfu*kers, it’s a ride you’ll never forget.

Carlyle King is my magical director. Fringe Management is producing, Mike Blaha & Nigel Miles-Thomas & my sponsor John Metzner/Purple Donut. During my sold out run recently in Hollywood, Sony Pictures Execs said, “You’re a cross between, ‘Fleabag’ & ‘Baby Reindeer,’ they’d love you in Edinburgh! Well, Edinburgh, HERE I AM!!! I’m so excited, I’m emotionally hard. PS we’re pitching my show as a series!! PSS Soho Theatre, I’m ready for you!!

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

OHHHH so many!! I wanna see and experience the international creations of like-minded humanoids. Last year I was there for 9 hours picking a venue and I saw 7 shows!!! I was vibrating. There’s something for every palate. Sherlock Holmes Last Act, A transcriber’s tale, Mother had two faces, anything at the GILDED BALLOON!! Shout out thank yous to: Tik Tok, Johnnie Walker, 8ight Plus, The Skinny, Playbill, The list, Red61.

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EdFringe Talk: A Transcriber’s Tale

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

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“I know I won’t really understand Edinburgh Fringe until I’m in the middle of it.”

WHO: Joanna Parson

WHAT: “Welcome to a bustling transcription office in 2001 New York City, where typists are busy listening to – and typing out – raw interviews for pulpy television shows and other mass media. The ultimate eavesdropper in a storm of sound bites, clichés and unexpected confessions, Joanna Parson presents a unique musical monologue that shows you what happens when a young woman with a sense of humour and a guitar tries to keep her sanity and heart intact in the centre of the news cycle. ‘I laughed, hummed, and was deeply touched’ (Kathryn Markey, Plays For Us).”

WHERE: Gilded Balloon Patter House – Bothie (Venue 24) 

WHEN: 12:00 (60 min)

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Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

Yes, this is my first time in Edinburgh! My roots are Fringe-y– I used to volunteer for the NYC International Fringe Festival from its very early days. I was an adjudicator for solo shows and for musicals, and it was always a fascinating experience as that festival tried to take lessons from Edinburgh and encourage that open, diverse theatrical energy in the heart of NYC. I’m doing my show “A Transcriber’s Tale” at the Hollywood Fringe now as a way to prep myself for August. But I know I won’t really understand Edinburgh Fringe until I’m in the middle of it. So many people have told me it’s a bucket list experience, and the best time they’ve ever had as an artist. I can’t wait!

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2023 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

Great question! I performed my show “A Transcriber’s Tale” for the first time in Bellingham, WA and Everett, WA last winter because I wanted to know how it would play for an audience outside NY. I incorporated changes to the show to make it even more of a personal journey. It turns out people really do want to learn from someone else’s experience, and the details of one person’s life story are all we need to start thinking of our own lives in a new way.

Tell us about your show.

I wrote the show myself with the help of developmental director Aimee Todoroff, and some additional musical arrangement by musical director Drew Wutke. I started working with Aimee in 2021 when I knew I wanted to resurrect the show I had begun developing in 2012 at the All For One Festival in NYC. The show is about a young woman who works as a transcriber for the mass media in NYC in the ’90s and through the time of 9/11, and the effect that listening to human voices tell stories has on our minds and hearts. The experiences we all went through in the last few years made this show land differently. In 2012, people said, “Are you sure you can talk about 9/11 on stage?” Now, people say, “Oh, right. Collective secondhand trauma. We get it.” I hooked up with Mike Blaha and Nigel Miles-Thomas of Fringe Management early this year after I realized I had several friends who’d had great experiences working with them, and I am so glad I did. They’re making the experience feel like a group endeavor.

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

I’m currently performing at the Hollywood Fringe along with awesome shows like “My Mother Doesn’t Know I’m Kinky” by Jean Franzblau, and I just got to see the adorable bilingual children’s show “Baby Rock”. My friend comedian Carolyn Castiglia is also bringing her AWESOME solo show “Chuck”, about gun violence that affected her family, to the Free Fringe. I can’t wait to see Karin Trachtenberg’s “My Mother Had Two Faces.” For music shows, I’ve heard great things about Oliver Harris’ Elvis and Rainee Blake’s Joni Mitchell: Take Me As I Am. And oh my God, I saw Zack Zucker’s “Jack Tucker’s Comedy Stand Up Hour” at the Soho Playhouse and was blown away. Check them all out!

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EdFringe Talk: Hypnotist Matt Hale: Top Fun! 80s Spectacular – Remix

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

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“I felt I built the base last year, and really got a feel of how the fest runs, so thought it would’ve been a waste if I didn’t come back and try to grow that more.”

WHO: Matt Hale

WHAT: “The unmissable sell-out smash-hit comedy hypnosis show with 80s party vibes returns! Remixed for 2024! With multiple sell-out Fringe runs and 50 million+ views online, enjoy from stage or audience – you choose! All-ages friendly. ‘The laughter is uncontrollable!’ ***** (FringeFeed.com.au). ‘Fun-filled show!’ ***** (One4Review.co.uk). ‘Laugh until your sides hurt!’ ***** (WeekendNotes.com). ‘Rollicking good time’ ***** (SeeDoEatReview.com). ‘Spectacular silliness! Absolute feel-good must-see show’ ****½ (XPressMag.com.au). Hypnotist Matt Hale is a multi-award winner, seen on Best Shows, Top 10s and Picks of the Fringe.”

WHERE: Gilded Balloon Patter House – Big Yin (Venue 24) 

WHEN: 17:00 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

First time was actually last year, but despite being the toughest festival I’ve performed at, in terms of trying to stand out amongst 3000+ other acts, and the incredibly high costs to be there for the month, I’m back for more! It turned out to be a great debut season – audiences flocked to the show and seemed to really buzz about it, so word of mouth worked very well. I felt I built the base last year, and really got a feel of how the fest runs, so thought it would’ve been a waste if I didn’t come back and try to grow that more. Plus the fact it was just wildly fun to be part of. With the amount of shows on at all different times of day and night, I was also able to see 30+ other shows. Normally I’m lucky if I get to a handful of others at a fest!

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2023 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

I’ve definitely realised you can find an audience at Edinburgh despite the eye-watering amount of other shows. That was my fear in my first year, that despite going in with a solid show that had sold well in the Australian Fringes (Adelaide and Perth – the next 2 biggest in the world), I found it hard to see how we could get enough people along when there was so much else on offer. But making sure that I served up a unique ridiculously fun show every night that people were posting and talking about, helped it spread and find an audience.

Tell us about your show.

Last year’s inital “Top Fun!” show became my most loved and best reviewed show in all the years I’ve been performing, so I felt that it wasn’t time to let it go completely. There was just something about the 80s theme that gave it a real party feel, with all the throwback bangers that I included and the action onstage. So decided to come back with a “remix” of it, meaning that there’s some new routines in it, plus some faves from last year, and all in keeping with the 80s theme again.

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

House of Life – joyful, funny, and genuinely uplifting hour of musical madness from the RaveRend…and Trev!

Josh Glanc – Family Man. New show from a man who makes me laugh so much!
I just love his surreal pure silliness.

John Robertson’s The Dark Room – live action retro choose-your-own adventure video game style chaos from the human hurricane!

Dizney in Drag – A very adult fairytale from our friends The Hairy Godmothers.

Michelle Brasier: Legacy – latest show from one of Australia’s funniest, and musically brilliant.

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EdFringe Talk: My Mother Had Two Faces: Reflections on Beauty, Aging and Acceptance

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

“From what I’ve gleaned, performing at Edinburgh Fringe is a roller-coaster of experiences and emotions but not one person has said they regretted it.”

WHO: Karin Trachtenberg

WHAT: “Presented in pseudo-fairytale style, this one-woman dramatic comedy dares to expose what lies beneath the mask of the perfect mother. Discovering her mother’s diaries after her passing, the heroine Karin begins to examine the history of their complicated relationship: from the gritty, urban streets of New York to her Swiss mother’s manicured orderliness. Engaged in conversations with her mirrored reflection, Karin wrestles with her own inner demons. A riveting and poetic journey employing multimedia and masks that asks, when we strip away the make-up, what is revealed? ****½ (TheFrontRowCenter.com).”

WHERE: Gilded Balloon Patter House – Bothie (Venue 24) 

WHEN: 13:20 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

This will be my first time in Edinburgh and the Fringe and it’s terrifying LOL. I’ve talked with scores of past performers to get an idea of what to expect, how to attract audiences and how to stay healthy and sane during this month-long festival. From what I’ve gleaned, performing at Edinburgh Fringe is a roller-coaster of experiences and emotions but not one person has said they regretted it. I see this as a once in a lifetime opportunity to perform at the world’s largest fringe festival. Fortunately, I have the production team of Fringe Management to help with marketing, promotion and technical aspects of bringing the show to Edinburgh.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2023 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

I’ve learned that a big goal is achieved by taking small steps every day. Consistency is key and connecting and collaborating with a like-minded artist community. At the beginning of 2023 I had a bunch of notes and no idea how to go about creating a one woman show. But by making time daily to write, rehearse, seek out support and networking with other solo artists, by the end of 2023 my dream came to full fruition complete with video, music, theatrical masks, projections and a Hollywood World Premiere of My Mother Had Two Faces.

Tell us about your show.

My Mother Had Two Faces: Reflections on Beauty, Aging and Acceptance is a one-woman autobiographical show that reveals what lies behind the mask of the perfect mother. Written and performed by me, Karin Trachtenberg, this has been a collaborative effort involving a team of creatives.

Director Jessica Lynn Johnson of Soaring Solo Studios worked with me along the way to shepherd the play from conception to full production. She produced my first performance and acts as an invaluable source of support and guidance.

My passion for Greek Theatre led me to collaborate with esteemed mask maker, Eric Bornstein, to create the “two faces” of my Mother which lend so much drama and pathos to the production. Three Cubed Studios from LA provided video support, while my son, Bobby Raps, a recent Berklee College of Music grad, composed some of the music and will be traveling with me as my tech.

My Mother Had Two Faces has traveled from Los Angeles to Boston to Off-Broadway as part of the United Solo Festival in NYC. Initially, I had no intention of taking my show to Edinburgh, but I love a good challenge. We’ll see what opportunities present themselves after Fringe.

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

I would recommend seeing anything to do with Mothers and mothering. Because let’s face it, as the first and arguably the most important relationship in our lives, it’s a subject we can all relate to – both comic and tragic. I’ve scoped out a few shows with a maternal motif, most notably “Go to your Womb” which features a mother/daughter performing duo @toninagycomedy, “My Mother doesn’t know I’m Kinky”, “My Mother’s Funeral” @painesplough, “Fin Taylor: Ask your Mother”, and “Tiger Daughter or: How I Brought My Immigrant Mother Ultimate Shame”

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EdFringe Talk: Plotters

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

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“A number of my plays have been translated and produced in German-speaking countries, so maybe the cast will be taking crash courses in Deutsch soon.”

WHO: Brian Parks

WHAT: “It’s a Grave Business. Infamy, riches, and the darkest secrets of the city collide in this fast-paced comedy by two-time Fringe First winner Brian Parks (‘A refreshingly mischievous, inventive author'(Times)). A clandestine cabal of misfits attempt their ultimate heist. Will these agents of the night seize the coveted prize, or bury themselves? A hilarious world premiere directed by Fringe First winner Margarett Perry and Natalie Tell, starring Matthew Boston, Mark Boyett, Brian Dykstra and Kate Siahaan-Rigg. From the team behind Fringe 2023 show Shortlist: ‘Perfectly crafted, deeply intelligent and supremely witty’ (Scotsman); ‘Immerse yourself in Perry’s direction’ (GetYourCoatsOn.com).”

WHERE: Assembly Rooms – Front Room (Venue 117) 

WHEN: 14:10 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

This will actually be my tenth show in Edinburgh. My first was back in 2000, with my play “Americana Absurdum,” which is a two-part, crazy surreal comedy with nine actors. The first part is about an attempted takeover of a family-run funeral parlour, the second about the bizarre and comic goings-on after an airliner crash. Both dark comedies, perhaps needless to say. We won a Fringe First for that production and had a fine first Edinburgh experience. Among my other past shows in the festival were my 2017 business comedy “Enterprise,” which also won a Fringe First; my real-estate comedy “The House” in 2018; and my show last year, “Shortlist” – about two longtime enemy novelists vying for the biggest literary award.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2023 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

“Absorbing a lesson” sounds like we’re now a slightly damp sponge. But yes, we certainly do learn things with every Edinburgh production. “Shortlist” was perhaps the most bare-bones production of my shows in Edinburgh, and it was great to see how well simple can work. “Plotters” is a bit more complicated but will be staged in a similar style. Also since 2023, I’ve learned – the accidental hard way – that the Tennent’s in Italy has more than twice the alcohol content as the Tennent’s in Scotland. But perhaps that’s off-topic.

Tell us about your show.

“Plotters” is a fast-paced heist comedy with a dark edge, which we’re doing at Assembly on George Street. The play is set in the 19th century, and follows a clandestine criminal firm as they attempt their biggest, most infamous job. I wrote it. It’s directed by Margarett Perry and Natalie Tell and performed by Matthew Boston, Mark Boyett, Brian Dykstra, and Kate Rigg. Twilight Theatre company is the producer; we’re all based in NYC. This is the show’s official world premiere, and it was specifically written to debut in Edinburgh. After Scotland, who knows? A number of my plays have been translated and produced in German-speaking countries, so maybe the cast will be taking crash courses in Deutsch soon.

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

I’m naturally eager to see our sister show “Polishing Shakespeare.” It’s also a Twilight Theatre production, written by Brian Dykstra and featuring some of the same actors as “Plotters.” Another NYC company, the Barrow Group, is staging “Lost…Found,” a charming piece written and performed by K. Lorrel Manning (at Assembly Roxy); the Barrow Group was at the festival last year for their first time, with Scott Organ’s terrific “17 Minutes.” Among others, I’m curious to see “Leni’s Last Lament,” a piece about Leni Riefenstahl that’s also at Assembly on George Street. The piece is directed by Richard Caliban, who staged one of my most favorite productions ever, Mac Wellman’s “Crowbar.” The play was mounted in a then-decrepit Broadway theater and was a kind of ghost story about that theater itself. “All theaters are haunted” went the chorus of its main song. Very true.

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EdFringe Talk: Big Feelings

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

“I am so elated to have spent that time with local comedians that ultimately led to becoming the first New Mexican person, in known history, to bring a solo show to the fringe.”

WHO: Gigi Bella

WHAT: “From 2024 Sondheim/Jonathan Larson Grant Rooftop Writer and 10th-ranked woman poet in the world Gigi Bella, Big Feelings explores mental health, feminism and the gospel of Taco Bell through poetry, comedy and music. The Barbie monologue meets Hedwig and the Angry Inch. A one-of-a-kind spoken word musical, centering the Mexicana experience and the feeling of giving yourself to lovers (and sometimes a country) that does not want you back.”

WHERE: Hill Street Theatre – Dunedin Theatre (Venue 41) 

WHEN: 21:30 (60 min)

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Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

Yes! This will also be my first time out of the US. Big Feelings started at a comedy festival in Albuquerque, NM (best known for Breaking Bad) and was such a joy. Once it was over, I immediately had the feeling that I just wanted to do it again and on a larger scale. I am so elated to have spent that time with local comedians that ultimately led to becoming the first New Mexican person, in known history, to bring a solo show to the fringe. I can’t wait to connect with other performers and take in performances from all over the world. It’s overwhelming. It’s gargantuan. It’s magical. I am, especially, excited to bring New Mexican culture to the fringe and expand upon the land of enchantment past Walter White and hot air balloons.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2023 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

I’ve learned to take big swings and then to take swings that make those swings look miniature. I’ve become more sure of myself every time I’ve told someone I was going to the fringe. The logistics were about 65% solid at any given time but I just kept saying it and saying it until it was finally true. I followed my heart and ran away to Vegas to have a Taco Bell wedding. I learned how to sew and started a small Taylor Swift Eras Tour business making Eras Tour outfits for women all around the world. I kept pushing to find the funds for fringe and started applying to do background on film and tv sets. Taking that small swing led to an opportunity that pushed it all over the top. Because of the chances I took, I just wrapped on a feature film with one of my favorite directors and production companies that will be out in 2025. There were so many moments where I was not sure it would all shake out. If I’ve absorbed anything, it’s the belief that it will. Here I am, happily married, traveling out of the country for the first time to perform, writing another book, making all my own costumes and preparing to become an overnight movie star.

Tell us about your show.

Big Feelings started as a poetry collection published by an indie press called Game Over Books. I wrote the book when I lived in New York City and thought my life was beginning when it was on its way to being released in 2020. The pandemic caused me to cancel my entire book tour and all of my live performances. I wasn’t sure that these stories would ever be in front of an audience. A poet by the name of Desiree Dallagiacomo taught me about the “life of the book” and how it lives as long as you want it to. This pushed me to do 120 virtual shows from my bedroom. Then in 2022, I took a chance and applied to a comedy festival just looking to get back out on stage anywhere. I was offered a theater and a full 45 minutes to do whatever I’d like. That’s how the stage version of Big Feelings came to be. I am a huge musical theater fan. I used to attend Broadway shows nearly once a week when I lived in NYC. I’ve always been particularly inspired by John Cameron Mitchell and Hedwig and the Angry Inch. I saw the revival four times and loved everything about the on stage band, the costume changes, the structure. I wanted to make a version of that in my own voice and full of poetry and Chicana/New Mexican culture. We’ve been fine tuning the show for two years and I could not be more proud of what we’re bringing to Fringe. I am so open to all of the places Big Feelings could go. A run in New York? A special for streaming? a world tour? The possibilities are endless.

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

After Big Feelings, audiences should check out all the events by the Loud Poets at the Scottish Storytelling Centre. I’ve loved watching their videos and seeing the scope of spoken word across the pond. Also, the Daily Picks of the Fringe Series at Brewdog Doghouse with PBH Free Fringe. I am so excited to be performing with those folks and can’t wait to see the wide range of talent they have to showcase. I, personally, can’t wait to go see Deanna Giulietti in Barbara (and Kenneth) at Greenside. I love Deanna’s videos and I feel like our shows are the Galinda to each other’s Elphaba except it’s just two really adorable Galindas. We are very kindred. I’m also a huge fan of the outfits and would go just to see what she’s wearing! (and would die if she saw me too. Hi Deanna! I’d LOVE to custom make a dress for you!) Another one I’m so excited to see (not that this artist needs my recommendation. She is deservedly Fringe famous) is Cat Cohen! As a fellow poet and very extra sequined broad, I am so enamored of Cat’s work and have cried laughing reading her poems. I can’t wait to see her live. If you haven’t, GO. She is such a remarkable performer with a voice all her own. Truly, the blueprint. And lastly, everything at Hill Street Theatre. I love this venue. I love their people. I’m so proud to be a part of their family this go round. Support them every chance you get.

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EdFringe Talk: Alex Franklin: Gurl Code

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

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“A bunch of comedian friends are coming up this year to do their various debuts, so I’m excited to see what they all do!”

WHO: Alex Franklin

WHAT: “In 2024, trans girl Alex (me) started HRT. Now she (me) feels the most alive she’s (me’s) ever felt; and she wants to make you feel alive too, or die trying. A ludicrous, musical, chaotic, joyful show about the colours of the world becoming slowly brighter and giving people furniture via the tube. Also being trans. As seen / heard on Channel 4 / HBO Max / BBC Radio 4. ‘Undeniably ludicrous comedy gold’ **** (Entertainment-Now.com). ‘Eclectic, risk-taking and inventive’ (Scotsman). ‘Winningly weird… this young comic is on the way up’ (Telegraph). Directed by Dom Stephens.”

WHERE: Underbelly, Cowgate – Delhi Belly (Venue 61) 

WHEN: 20:25 (60 min)

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Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

It’s the third! I did my first solo show in 2022 (along with a narrative sketch show called Chuck Salmon: Pool Noodles, it was too many things) – but back then I was definitely giving ‘small asian boi’ vibes, so I feel this year might be a different experience? I’m excited to return to Edinburgh again and find out! Also a bunch of comedian friends are coming up this year to do their various debuts, so I’m excited to see what they all do!

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2023 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

It’s good to accept help when you can! For previous years, the shows I did were self-produced, and Fringe especially was a particularly trying time – if I ever got ill or had a rough day, there was no one else to fall back on. This year I’ve been lucky enough to have people supporting me (my producer Martin, director Dom and PR Angela, all absolutely lovely, all absolute angels), which has made a WORLD of difference, both logistically and emotionally; and frankly just allows me to do more!

Also I’ve really learned how to be comfortable in myself the past year – which partly comes with transitioning, and seeing myself when I look in the mirror; but with it also comes the belief that I have the right to make decisions for my own life, and that you don’t need to minimise yourself for the sake of others. I’m now much more comfortable thinking ‘what would Alex (me) do?’ rather than ‘what do others want me to do?’.

Oh also getting some sleep! Turns out you need sleep!

Tell us about your show.

The show is called ‘Gurl Code’ – it’s a show about trans joy, telling people I’m trans, and my past year on hormones. The past few years have been pretty rough on trans people in the UK, and I wanted to make something that helps us feel a sense of belonging, and shows the happiness and freedom you get to experience when you live as your true self.

It’s a bit scary as it’s a much more personal show than I’ve ever done before – it covers very real moments and aspects of my life, which is a big contrast to previous shows where I’ve pretended to be a bee or told a story about a dinosaur; but people have been liking it so far, so hopefully honesty is the best policy!

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

Okay so obviously do loads but to name but a few:

Will BF: Moon Team IIIV – Aside from being super good they’re also my housemate and I’ve watched them spent the past week trying to perfect a fish puppet so am pretty confident it’ll at least be memorable.

Selena Mersey: Madonna/Whore – Am pretty confident it’s won a bunch of awards?? Anyway go see it cos Selena is stunningly great

Andrew Doherty: Gay Witch Sex Cult – Literally one of my favourite shows of last year

Dr Dolittle Kills a Man (and Reads Extracts From His New Book) by Aidan Pittman – It has an animatronic puffin and as soon as that appeared it won me over

Dee Allum: Deadname – Perhaps the funniest comedian ever??

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