Author Archives: Dan Lentell

EdFringe Talk: The Tiger Lillies: One Penny Opera

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2022 by

“I have seen some amazing performances in Edinburgh over the years as well as some shows that make me question why they thought that was a good use of their time and effort.”

WHO: Adrian Stout: Performer

WHAT: “They’re back! After years away touring the world, the Olivier Award-winning godfathers of alternative cabaret celebrate their 30th anniversary with a triumphant return to the Fringe. Based on the seminal 18th-century Beggar’s Opera, the band present a new song cycle swarming with highwaymen, thieves, jailers, pimps and prostitutes – a world of greed, crime, poverty and inequality. Expect immense beauty and outrageous comedy from the Grammy-nominated, street-opera trio. ‘The execution is impeccable throughout. Phenomenal’ ***** (Guardian). ‘Extraordinary, seek out a ticket for this glorious show’ ***** (Scotsman).”

WHERE: Underbelly, Bristo Square – Cowbarn (Venue 302) 

WHEN: 21:20 (70 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

It’s not our first time, we first played in Edinburgh in 1995 when we we asked to perform with The Men Who Know. We may have misbehaved during the show and gone off script a few times. Soz. A great festival has a diverse mix of the sublime and the ridiculous, lots of people trying new ideas and experienced performers all trying to make as memorable experience for an audience. I have seen some amazing performances in Edinburgh over the years as well as some shows that make me question why they thought that was a good use of their time and effort. I love going into a room and coming out after seeing the world differently. Most audiences never see the effort that goes in day after day, the late nights and the endurance that you need to do a good show every day.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2019 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

Be flexible and expect the unexpected are some of the sessions we have learned. Apart from that, if you don’t work for 2 years, get a hobby.

Tell us about your show.

One Penny Opera is based on Joh Gay’s Beggars Opera from 1728, it’s also the basis of The Three Penny Opera by Brecht and Weill. The story satirised politics, poverty and injustice, focusing on the theme of corruption at all levels of society. We are playing it as a song cycle, using songs from the album we put out last year, and including some songs from previous albums as well. Martyn has written songs that take the characters into the work of the Tiger Lillies, there is some very poignant songs and some very funny ones as well. We developed the show ourselves over a number of years, the first time in 2001, then we reworked the songs in 2020 and performed it at the Soho Theatre and Wiltons Music Hall. Hopefully we can play it in Berlin later in the year.

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

I always try and watch Simon Munnery at the Fringe, his shows are great, thought provoking and very funny. He is at the The Strand.

Becky Fury is at PHB’s Free Fringe with her show C*NT!, she is a great performer and poet. Prepare to be offended.

Camile O’Sullivan is playing in the same venue as us and doing a stripped down show with just piano.

Alok at the Traverse Theatre will be excellent, they are currently at Soho theatre now.

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EdFringe Talk: Ali Brice: I Tried To Be Funny, But You Weren’t Looking

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“I also learned that I love video calls. Not Zoom. I mean Face-timing or whatever the WhatsApp equivalent is. I hate talking on the phone, it makes me anxious. But I love a video call.”

WHO: Ali Brice

WHAT: “Ali Brice is embracing life after almost losing it. Three years on, he’s admitted defeat and is back on his feet and trying again. Through therapy, friends and… sausages, he’s living in the moment and celebrating the little things life has to offer. A sincere, heartfelt and happy show, expect silly stories, big questions, and jokes aplenty from a ridiculous man with a stupid moustache. ‘World’s most naturally funny person’ (Joz Norris). ‘A hidden gem’ (Skinny). ‘Side-splittingly comical’ (TheUpcoming.co.uk). ‘Joyously bonkers’ (Chortle.co.uk). As seen/heard on BBC and Channel 4.”

WHERE: PBH’s Free Fringe @ Banshee Labyrinth – Chamber Room (Venue 156) 

WHEN: 16:50 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

This is my 11th time and the Fringe. I love it. Each year I say, ‘This will probably be my last’ and then I always end up going the next year. I can’t stay away.

It’s my favourite time of the year. I always put it this way. For 11 months of the year, conversation is dominated by football. It’s used a shortcut to get to know someone. I don’t like football. However, at the Fringe, football is replaced by comedy. And I love comedy.

Basically, for 1 month each year I get to live in a world where my favourite thing is the main conversational currency and I feel at home. On top of that, I get to do the thing I love every day for a month. And on top of that, all my friends go as well. What could be better than that?

Over the last 10 years I have seen the Fringe grow and become too big (although that does just mean more comedians, really, and I kind of like that!), I’ve seen people become stars, people have a tough time, I’ve laugh, cried, been frustrated, made friends, fallen in love…. it’s been a real rollercoaster. But the one thing I have learned is that you have just got to have fun. Nothing else matters. Just enjoy yourself.

This will probably be the last time I go.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2019 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

I spent my lockdown doing therapy. Not intentionally, it was just coincidence. And a very happy one. I spent two years working through some stuff and really getting to know myself for the first time. It was hard work, really tough at times, but is 100% one of the best things I have ever done.

So, I have learned a lot about myself.

I also learned that I love video calls. Not Zoom. I mean Face-timing or whatever the WhatsApp equivalent is. I hate talking on the phone, it makes me anxious. But I love a video call.

I guess my wider point there is, I have learnt that connection is key. It’s good to talk.

Tell us about your show.

My show is about a very dark moment in my life in 2018 when I tried to end it all. But it is funny.

I wrote it. Jonny Freeman directed it. I met him in Madrid while he was pretending to be an alpaca. True story.

I performed the very first outing of the material in August 2021.- just to see if I could talk about it and make it funny. So, it’s been a long journey and the hardest I have ever worked on a show.

I have performed it work-in-progress versions of it around the UK over the last year and taken it to a few comedy festivals (Leicester, Machynlleth, Brighton, Cambridge), but Edinburgh is the first place it will be performed in its finished form. I can’t wait.

I hope to perform it again after the Fringe. Plans are afoot!

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

Alwin Solanky tells the story of growing up as one of the only Gujarati speaking refugee families in a small town. It is beautiful.

Consignia – the most consistently bizarre, original, weird, and committed-to-doing-their-own-thing group of performers I have seen. They deserve bigger crowds go see them.

Joz Norris’ shows get better and better each year. I am in awe of his approach to comedy and very jealous of his talent.

Sooz Kempner is awesome. I did my last preview with her and her show is great – she has an amazing bit about Grease that is just laugh out loud hilarious.

Eleanor Morton is going to be star, see her while you still can.

Christian Brighty used to flyer for me for free back in the day and now he has over 400,000 followers on TikTok and has a brilliantly stupid show about the greatest love story ever.

Luke Rollason is original, hilarious, and wonderful watch – do the right thing and go and see him.

Rosie Holt – you can’t see her because all her shows are sold out, but she is an excellent character comedian and satirist. Do what you can to get a ticket.

Ania Magliano – I gigged with her recently and she blew my socks off, just excellent jokes.

Sam Nicoresti is unique and hilarious as is his show, which is all about self-explorations and cancel culture go see it.

Jordan Brookes is the current reigning champion of comedy, of course you should see him.

John Kearns is the best comedian of his generation; he will go down in the history books as true original.

Pat Cahill is one of the most naturally funny people in the world, a beautiful idiot.

Ben Moor is funny, clever, philosophical, life-affirming and one of the nicest people you could ever hope to meet.

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EdFringe Talk: Walk-Man

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2022 by

“You never know what to expect here in Edinburgh and that’s the beauty of it.”

WHO: Jannik Elkær & Kristoffer L. A. Pedersen: Artistic directors

WHAT: “You will never cross the street in the same way again! Don Gnu digs into the tediousness of everyday routines in search of poetry and humour with muscular physicality and edgy stunt tricks. One ordinary day, four ordinary men take an ordinary walk through the city, until one of them suddenly decides to rebel… With trademark Don Gnu everyday stunts and raw physicality, Walk-Man is a performance about the extraordinary experiences of ordinary life. In a world where our everyday rules, norms and routines no longer apply – who are we really?”

WHERE: ZOO Southside – Main House (Venue 82) 

WHEN: 12:15 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

Our first time at Edinburgh Fringe festival was in 2016 where we were bringing our international bestseller “M.I.S. – All Night Long”, and it was hectic and overwhelming. We have been there quite a few times since then, and this year we are back at ZOO Southside with our new show “WALK-MAN”. And it is still overwhelming and hectic – but we love it!

You never know what to expect here in Edinburgh and that’s the beauty of it. It’s a mix of so themes, genres, styles and ways to express our human nature, vulnerability and crazyness, and we are always looking forward to be touched, confused and inspired from all the strange and crazy ideas out there.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2019 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

That it’s important to be well prepared, but more important to be there!

It has been quite a reminder, that we never know how things will go, you can plan a lot of things, but you need also to be prepared for – and embrace – improvisation. This is also an important way for us to develop our work. The beauty lies in the mistakes – in the unexpected and in the extraordinaire experiences in ordinary life.

Tell us about your show.

WALKMAN” is a very physical, funny and touching performance about a close encounter of four pedestrians crossing the street. Or they are trying to do so at least….

We always strive to create our work in a close collaboration with the artist’s involved. Everybody has a personal impact on the productions – we do believe this is what makes the works come alive and creates the always surprising encounter with the audience that our company is known for.

The show premiered in 2019 and was selected for several showcases and festivals – but as many many other productions from that year, the momentum faded when everything was cancelled. We hope our participation in Fringe this year will bring the show new life, as it truly deserves.

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

We of course must recommend seeing some of our amazing Danish colleagues also selected for the #DANISH Showcase at the Edinburgh Fringe; ROCKY! by Fix and Foxy also performing at Zoo Venues or one of the 4 works from Palle Granhøj performing at Dance Base – or maybe the online show TUESDAY NIGHT SLEEPING CLUB from Danish Hello Earth.

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EdFringe Talk: Elf Lyons: Raven

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“It is one of the most exciting places to spend a month and take risks – especially when seeing all the amazing alternative talent that you might miss on a usual commercial line-up or panel show on TV.”

WHO: Elf Lyons

WHAT: “Edinburgh Comedy Award Best Show nominee Elf Lyons floats to the Fringe with her new horrifying comedy show inspired by Stephen King. Part mad clown comedy spectacle, part Hammer horror. Elf becomes your own personal Pennywise as she merges horror techniques with old school storytelling to make you laugh and shiver in equal measure. Don’t be a Misery, get a glass of red rum, bring your pal Tony and laugh with Elf forever and ever. ‘Silly, touching and catastrophic’ **** (Sunday Times). ‘Lyons has genuine funnybones’ (Chortle.co.uk). As seen on ITV2, Dave and BBC Three.”

WHERE: Gilded Balloon Teviot – Dining Room (Venue 117) 

WHEN: 20:30 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

No. I’ve been almost every year since I was 18. It is one of the most exciting places to spend a month and take risks – especially when seeing all the amazing alternative talent that you might miss on a usual commercial line-up or panel show on TV. There are so many talented clowns and physical performers this year – especially from L’ Ecole Gaulier, which I would recommend!

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2019 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

Chances are you are dehydrated and you just need to eat a vegetable and have a power nap.

Tell us about your show.

It is written, created and made by me. I hire a rehearsal room, throw loads of shit around (sometimes metaphorically, sometimes literally) and see what sticks and makes me happy. You have to challenge yourself.

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

There are so many amazing shows at this year’s Edfringe. If you like my style of comedy (and why would you be on here if you didn’t you weirdo?) then here are a few that I would definitely recommend that you check out and see. These guys are eccentric, unique, alternative and just all brilliant.

3am Brain – George Dimarelos .- Lovely man from Australia who is a book nerd and knows a lot about economics.

Amelia Baylor: Greatest Hits – Brings the Vibe in a way that makes you feel like a feminist and empowered manic pixie dream.

Amy Matthews: Moreover, the Moon – Go and see this woman for her style alone and then be jealous of both her comedy skills and her dress sense.

Andy Field – Best I-Shit-Myself-story ever.

Ben Moor and Joanna Neary: BookTalkBookTalkBook- This is art and this is what the fringe is ABOUT. Please go.

Britney – Friends and Nothing More – They have a sketch about Stephen King and Tabitha King. Need I say more?

Cerys Bradley: Sportsperson-Phenomenal funny legend directed by the phenomenal funny Joz Norris.

Christian Blighty: Playboy- Clown Madness with too many props. Crone – Horror comedy by one of the best physical theatre performers I’ve seen in yonks.

Crybabies: BagBeard – Good long eggs with silliness galore.

Davina Bentley: Never Again 2- Characters. Charisma. Nerve and So MUCH Talent.

Diane Chorley: Down the Flick – You just have to go.

Frankie Thompson: Catts- This woman is a future artist that Performance Art Grads will write their thesis about.

Garrett Millerick: Just Trying to Help- You can’t get better stand up.

Garry Starr: Greece Lightning- His dance as Atlas is one of the silliest things I’ve ever seen. We once did a naked Hamlet together on stage. See this man.

God Damn Fancy Man- AWESOME.

Grant Buse: SentiMENTAL!- We used to live together and he has gorgeous hair and a gorgeous voice and filthy jokes. Not Tim Minchin.

Harriet Dyer: Trigger Warning. Frankly if this does not win every award and get the accolades it deserves the whole fringe is flawed.

Isabelle Farah: Irresponsabelle- I wish I had been able to see this woman live on stage when I was growing up because she is inspiring and funny as hell.

Jazz Emu: You shouldn’t have- Silliness and Garth Marenghi oddity to the ecore.

Jen Ives: Peak Trans- You have to love Jen Ives. She’s ON it.

John Robertson: The Dark Room- He is Cult.

If you want to be cult, see JR. Jordan Brookes- No one can sit on a chair like him. Go to see him sit on a chair.

Jordan Gray: Is it a Bird? – She is a goddess that makes your heart soar and your stomach muscles churn from laughing.

Josh Glanc: Vroom Vroom- SUCH A FUNNY SILLY STUPID ONE MAN SKETCH SHOW FROM ONE OF THE KINDEST MEN IN THE WORLD.

Joz Norris: Blink – There is only one Joz Norris.

Julia Masli: CHOOSH! – Clown silliness from the doe eyed princess Julia Masli.

Katie Pritchard: Disco Ball – You can’t help but feel giddy with euphoria from seeing Katie and her joyous musical comedy.

Laura Davis: If This Is It. Laura loves plants, loves brioche, loves life and her comedy is like a beautiful couture gown with how it is woven together.

Lauren Pattison: It Is What It Is. Lauren should be Prime Minister because there is no one so on it as she is. She is the word EUREKA in one person.

Lily Phillips: Smut. Smut. So much smut. The Lovely Boys. These boys make me cry laughing every time. I just cannot.

Luke Rollason: Bowerbird. TOO MANY PROPS and a very good mime.

Maisie Adam: Buzzed. Her engagement story had me crying with laughter. She’s like how I imagine all The Losers Club would be in one person and that is a big compliment.

Mary O’Connell: There’s Something Wrong With Mary. Mary had be aching with laughter when I saw her at a gig the other day. She is as sharp as a knife Kathy Bates would use.

Michelle Brasier; Average Bear. Heard so so so many things about this show. Cannot wait to see her. Naughty. Just from witnessing this angel on stage at one of my clown courses, I know this is going to be super.

Nikki Hartung: Love, Pierre. Again, another student from one of my clown courses. Nikki entranced me then and no doubt will entrance you on stage.

Norris & Parker: Sirens. These women take sketch to places it should not go and I love them for it.

Paul Foot: Swan Power. I mean, if you don’t know who Paul Foot is… where have you been?

Phil Ellis: Hedgehog. Phil is chaos and will probably breach all health and safety rules in the process of his set.

Pierre Novellie: Why Can’t I Just Enjoy Things? Such an acerbic and nuanced comedian.

Richard Brown: Horror Show. Never seen Richard but I have heard awesome things and this sounds awesome.

Richard Stott: Afterparty. SOLID GOOD EGG THIS ONE.

Rosie Holt: The Woman’s Hour (I directed this one). Character comedy that is razor sharp.

Ryan Lane Will Be There Now In A Minute. Oh go on. Go. If you saw Hilda and The Spectrum then you need to see this. No one can do characters like Ryan.

Sami Abu Wardeh: Bedu. Physical clown fun.

Seayonce: Res-Erection. Silly AND sexy? What!?

Shelf: Hair. My god children. Had to include them.

Sikisa: Life of the Party. Sikisa is god. Siblings: Siblage. Siblings on stage. What isn’t to love?

Sooz Kempner: PlayStation. Sooz is the most loveable nerd queen of us all.

Susan Riddell: Living My 2nd Best Life. Every time I see Susan on stage I fall more in love with her.

Tom Crosbie: Nerd’s Eye View. Keep thinking about what this man can do with a Rubik’s cube.

The Ugly Animal Preservation Society. Technically a mixed bill but Simon Watt who runs this is ace and deserves praise for such a dynamic concept.

Vidura Bandara Rajapaksa. Has a joke on Portugal that kills me.

Vittorio Angelone: Translations. Seen this guy do some very exciting alternative short sets so interested to see his full hour.

Where’s Your Head At? Faye is divine AND has a trumpet.

Will Duggan: Iceberg. Will is to comedy what a strong oak tree is to a forest.

Yasmine Day: Songs In The Key Of Me. Always cry laughing watching Yasmine.

Yuriko Kotani: Kaiju About. The way Yuriko plays with rhythm on stage is a delight.

Zach Zucker: Spectacular Industry Showcase, Paid me to include him on this list.

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EdFringe Talk: Man Shed

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2022 by

“Described as the “quintessential fringe show.” Edinburgh is the biggest arts festival in the world and the best. The variety of acts and talent is staggering.”

WHO: Euan Martin: Writer

WHAT: “Can a man find his purpose when he grows older and all the major life events come thick and fast? Should he retire to the solitude of The Shed and escape from the world, or get out and try something new? When familiar rules no longer apply, is it too late to change the habits of a lifetime? Inspired by the work of the Scottish Men’s Sheds Association, Man Shed is a one-man theatre piece by Right Lines Productions which explores the joy of sheds, the pain of loss and the comfort of friendship.”

WHERE: Pleasance Courtyard – Bunker One (Venue 33) 

WHEN: 14:15 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

We visited the Fringe in 2008 with the interactive comedy ceilidh show The Accidental Death of an Accordionist. Described as the “quintessential fringe show.” Edinburgh is the biggest arts festival in the world and the best. The variety of acts and talent is staggering. I’ve been coming for 40 years and never fail to find some gem of a show. The pressure is on as a producer with all the competition!

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2019 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

Don’t despair! Live theatre was simply not possible for a long time due to the pandemic, so we concentrated on working up ideas for new shows. It was great to have some clear time to write, as opposed to spending time on admin for upcoming tours!

Tell us about your show.

Man Shed was written by Euan Martin and directed by Dave Smith. Dave and Euan run Right Lines Productions, the company producing the show. Right Lines has been writing, producing and touring original theatre productions for 20 years. The first show under the Right Lines banner was Who Bares Wins, a comedy inspired by the exploits of the Naked Rambler. It starred Ron Emslie who also stars in Man Shed.

Man Shed was due to tour in May 2020, but the pandemic intervened. This is the world premiere outing of the show. We aim to get the show back up and running for a spring tour in Scotland/UK in 2023.

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

Nightlands, dogstar theatre at Summerhall. Another Highland theatre company. Always produce challenging, thought provoking work. Sandy Brechin Band, Merchant’s Hall. Brilliant accordionist, Sandy’s wit and repartee makes this show not to miss. Men With Coconuts Gilded Balloon Patter Hoose. Great musical improv troupe. Pleasance National Partnerships programme acts at the Pleasance!

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EdFringe Talk: The Bubble Show

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“I have performed at Fringe Festivals as far as New Zealand and Edinburgh is by far the largest and greatest fringe in the world.”

WHO: The Bubble Man

WHAT: “Join Mr Bubbles with his extraordinary soap bubbles in all shapes and sizes! Enjoy bouncy bubbles, bubbles inside bubbles, smoke bubbles, square bubbles, giant bubbles and even fire bubbles! Interactive and suitable for all ages, The Bubble Show is a unique blend of magic, storytelling, science and bubble art! Actor, storyteller and Guinness World Record holder, The Highland Joker is one of the top bubble artists in the world. He is returning to Edinburgh Festival Fringe with his international award-winning performance! Join us as we journey together through the realms of Bubbleland!”

WHERE: Assembly George Square Gardens – Piccolo (Venue 3) 

WHEN: 10:00 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

Super excited to be back in Edinburgh with The Bubble Show at Assembly Festival, George Square. Last time I was in Edinburgh with The Bubble Show was in 2019. Before that I used to perform street bubbles at the Fringe. I have performed at Fringe Festivals as far as New Zealand and Edinburgh is by far the largest and greatest fringe in the world.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2019 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

I used a lot of past two years, experimenting with my Bubble Art, developing new ideas, and rehearsing. Very much looking forward to bringing back some bubble fun to Edinburgh this summer.

Tell us about your show.

The Bubble Show is a family show, aimed at children 3-12, it’s a blend of storytelling, magic, science and bubble art. The show is always super popular, because bubbles are a universal thing of beauty. They are so simple yet so spiritual and profound. The show it lots of fun.

It is a one man show, produced and performed by Eran The Bubbles man, one of the top bubble artistes in the world.

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

If you really love bubbles! Go and see the other bubble shows. My friends Kurt & Iulia perform Bubble Show for Adults Only. This is a late night show, not for the faint of heart!

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EdFringe Talk: Caitlin

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“I lost my mother to Covid in December 2020 and suffered all that went with losing someone precious at that time. So I decided to say “YES” more. Don’t be afraid. Take risks. Do a one woman show and make my Edinburgh debut at 56. That’s what I have learnt.”

WHO: Christine Kempell

WHAT: “Before Dylan Thomas died at the tender age of 39, he and his bohemian wife, Caitlin, binged and brawled their way round the bars of Britain in the 1930s and 40s. In this one woman show, Caitlin Macnamara tells the story in her own brutally honest words about her stormy, skint, passionate, booze-fuelled, infidelity-riddled marriage to the selfish, tragic genius and of her own unfulfilled ambitions. ‘He had his poetry. He was a poet. You will have heard of him. And Caitlin Macnamara? Chances are if you’ve heard of me, it’s because I married him.’”

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

WHEN: 19:30 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

This is my first time as a performer at Edinburgh fringe. I have been before as a punter and also as a reviewer but this is my first time on stage in Edinburgh and I am thrilled to be part of the 75th anniversary festivities. I’m looking forward to seeing as many of the shows at Greenside Venues as I can as well as catching some of my favourite comedy acts. I’m also looking forward to hopefully meeting up with people I haven’t seen for years to let them know I am still alive and still doing it. I have just finished a run at Brighton fringe festival so I’m hoping I get similar support from audiences in Edinburgh.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2019 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

I think my appreciation of everything has been amplified since 2019. Being with my family, meeting friends, going out for meals, going to the theatre, going to live gigs are all wondrous to me now but also being in the small moments more and constantly thanking the universe for where we are and not where we have been for the last two years. I hope we never have to go back. I lost my mother to Covid in December 2020 and suffered all that went with losing someone precious at that time. So I decided to say “YES” more. Don’t be afraid. Take risks. Do a one woman show and make my Edinburgh debut at 56. That’s what I have learnt. One great big sod it.

Tell us about your show.

Caitlin is a one woman play about Dylan Thomas’s wife and her turbulent life with the poet, told entirely from her perspective with brutal honesty. It was written by Mike Kenny back in 2003. I saw my friend Helen Griffen in a reprised production in 2014 and thought at the time Caitlin was a part I’d love to have a crack at. My old friend from Carmarthen Youth Opera days, Steve Elias is directing it. Steve has been in 25 West End shows so he knows what he’s doing and he was also the choreographer and presenter on My Dancing Town. Caitlin was a dancer so Steve has me jumping around all over the place. There are normally bruises so I am predicting to be black and blue after performance no 12. We have been at Brighton fringe, Theatrau Sir Gar’s Glowyr and Ffwrnes theatres, and we’re at the London Welsh Centre and Blackwood Miners Institute in October. And Edinburgh of course.

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

You have to go and see Siblings as they are hilarious and when I saw them in Brighton (again!) recently they had another act with them- Sami. He’s got his own show in Edinburgh and he’s also incredibly funny. If clowning and physical comedy are your thing you should definitely go and if it’s not- check it out anyway. I predict you’ll be howling with laughter.

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EdFringe Talk: Ania Magliano: Absolutely No Worries If Not

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2022 by

“This is my first time doing an hour of stand up! I’ve been up to the festival before in a variety of other contexts (working as a receptionist, doing a sketch show, doing tech for other shows) but I imagine this will be a pretty different experience.”

WHO: Ania Magliano

WHAT: “50% Polish, 50% Italian, 100% legend. Ania Magliano’s debut show tackles the stuff that matters: Lush, horse girls and buying a cat off Gumtree. Winner of the Leicester Comedy Festival Best New Show 2022. Writer for Amelia Dimoldenberg’s Chicken Shop Date. As seen on The Stand Up Sketch Show (ITV2) and Dave Online. ‘Already has the cool, calm and collected stage presence of a standup veteran’ (Guardian). ‘A finesse usually seen after decades in the game’ (DIVA). Come if you want to, but absolutely no worries if not.”

WHERE: Pleasance Courtyard – Bunker Three (Venue 33) 

WHEN: 16:35 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

Thoughts on festivals experienced as a producer v. experienced as a punter etc.)

This is my first time doing an hour of stand up! I’ve been up to the festival before in a variety of other contexts (working as a receptionist, doing a sketch show, doing tech for other shows) but I imagine this will be a pretty different experience. Finally I’ll get the chance to talk for an hour uninterrupted!

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2019 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

I’ve written a long diary entry after every Fringe I’ve done, and each time I look back on them they make me cringe to my very core. In terms of general life lessons since 2019, I’ve started therapy so I reckon I’m pretty much sorted personality wise?

Tell us about your show.

My show is written and performed by me, who I’ve had a long and tumultuous working relationship with. It’s being produced by Country Mile Productions and I’ve had creative help from Jordan Brookes – I don’t throw the words ‘dream team’ around lightly but this is it! In October I’m doing a week at the Soho Theatre in London, and Aberystwyth Comedy Festival.

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

Chloe Petts for an hour of fantastic stand up and fantastic vibes. Crizards for a really wonderful and hilarious Cowboy themed show with songs that I’ve had stuck in my head since I first saw it in May. Nic Sampson for a very funny, very well performed show about RUNNING! Leo Reich for comedy so good I can’t put it into words. Sophie Duker, need I say more!!!!!!! I’m also super excited to see Olga Koch’s new show as I’ve loved every other one she’s done. And Snort is the best and most fun improv show.

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EdFringe Talk: Daniel Muggleton: Oh, More Mr White Guy?

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2022 by

“It’s easy to forget to eat during Fringe and things still close relatively early in Edinburgh.”

WHO: Daniel Muggleton

WHAT: “Daniel Muggleton is an Australian stand-up comedian wearing a tracksuit. His debut special, Let’s Never Hang Out, aired multiple times on ABC Comedy and is now streaming on Prime Video. He’s been hand-picked to support Jim Jefferies, Tom Stade and Steve Hofstetter on tour, was selected as one of Four Great Free Fringe Shows by The Scotsman in 2019 and his stand-up clips have millions of views online. ‘A foul-mouthed prophet’ ***** (Advertiser, Adelaide). ‘Never preachy… deceptively smart’ **** (Chortle.co.uk).”

WHERE: Laughing Horse @ The Counting House – The Lounge (Venue 170) 

WHEN: 19:15 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

No, but it’s the first time since 2019 which feels like a very long time when you’re used to going every single year. It’s also the first time I really wasn’t planning to go… and then changed my mind last minute. So this is a real test, because if it’s a disaster I’ll never do anything impulsive again. That actually seems like kind of a rash decision in itself, so you can see how much I have riding on this month.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2019 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

I’ve learned that as a person with a moustache, people treat you very differently when wearing a face mask. It feels like I’m cat-fishing the world. I have also learned that it’s actually not that easy to get someone pregnant, meaning I was pulling out unnecessarily for years.

Tell us about your show.

I’m a stand-up comedian so I did everything you’re describing. I also did it without government grants, bursaries or prizes and expect to make money from the show, like a good capitalist. I’ve done the show at Australian festivals in the front half of 2022, and will tour it regionally from September… after that I’ll film it and put it on YouTube and then move on with my life.

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

After they’ve seen my show it will be about 8:15pm, so I reckon maybe grab a bite to eat? It’s easy to forget to eat during Fringe and things still close relatively early in Edinburgh. After that I reckon Bobby Mair is a good bet, if you’re willing to consider the next day as ‘after’ then there’s also Red Richardson and Garry Starr is an Australian act who smashed in domestically in 2022.

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EdFringe Talk: Boorish Trumpson

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2022 by

“I love discovering bizarre and inspiring work that defies genre – it feels like it re-inspires and reinvigorates your own creative juices.”

WHO: Claire Parry

WHAT: “#MakeMusicGreatAgain. You are the orchestra. Boorish Trumpson is your rehearsal-conductor. Just your rehearsal conductor… just for one rehearsal… absolutely no other ambitions. None. Nope. ‘Fantastic performance’ **** (TheWeeReview.com). ‘Irrepressible’ **** (List). ‘Hilarious’ **** (FeministFringeReviews.wordpress.com). ‘Phenomenal’ (Chortle.co.uk). ‘A Masterpiece of a chef-d’oeuvre’ ***** (Boorish Trumpson). An interactive, music and clowning-filled interrogation of power and those who wield it from critically acclaimed Lecoq-trained clown Claire Parry.”

WHERE: Assembly Rooms – Front Room (Venue 20) 

WHEN: 15:30 (70 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

This is my 5th time as a performer! I first came in the year after uni, then returned with professional ambitions in the interactive, immersive show Eden Gate (I’m going to say it – a cult hit. I’ve never felt so mildly famous). Then a few years later I came with my first professional solo show Intolerable Side Effects and now I’m back with Boorish Trumpson for the whole run after doing just a week last year! I’ve also been twice as a punter for the weekend – definitely the more relaxing way to do it compared to keeping on top of all the admin, ticket sales, flyering and performing. But I keep coming back for more! I think my favourite thing about the fringe is how many brilliant and completely unique shows you can see whilst up here – it’s the reason I dared to train in physical theatre (arguably still not a financially viable career choice…) and I love discovering bizarre and inspiring work that defies genre – it feels like it re-inspires and reinvigorates your own creative juices. It’s also amazing to meet so many artists, especially as a solo artist who usually sits at home alone…

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2019 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

In 2019 I did in two shows a day, including all the production and marketing for one and a lot of flyering. It took quite a toll on my energy and I don’t think I was always in the best place. Last year when I was there for just a week flyering was banned – it was AMAZING. It took so much pressure off and I felt so much better before performing each show. This year I’ve put budget aside to get a flyerer to help me out – I’m figuring out my limits and what putting on the show realistically costs rather than thinking I have to do EVERYTHING and not pay for anything. The other amazing thing – I treated myself! With my fave honey, lemon and ginger drink before each show! In 2019 I would have considered that a frivolous no no (I’m on the extreme end of ‘self-disciplined’ when it comes to not spending money). I think I’ve learnt that actually there’s a balance and it’s important to allow myself to spend on what is going to keep me healthy as a performer, both mentally and physically for the month. I’ll still be having packed lunches though…

Tell us about your show.

Boorish Trumpson is a mad clowning and music filled solo show about a power figure who’s after power for power’s sake over principles but transposed into the world of an orchestra. Boorish Trumpson is the rehearsal conductor on a power grab and the audience are cast as the orchestra – it is very interactive and the script is full of verbatim Boris Johnson and Donald Trump quotes in a bit of send up of these types of leaders whilst the political questions rumble underneath – how complicit are we in their rise?

I wrote it following seeing my mum’s community choir concert – I thought the conductor looked so funny and so powerful conducting all these different groups – it felt like a setting ripe for adding in a bit of physical theatre and political satire! I have also been helped immensely by my dreamy dramaturg/co-directors Alex Prescot and Lily Levinson, clown extraordinaire Lisa Berg and my sound designer Fizz Margereson – they helped me devise the piece in the room (following several months of mulling and failed funding applications…which at least helped clarify my ideas!) and offered brilliant feedback following WIPs to help it grow. I brought the team together as I’ve worked with them all before and really wanted their combination of skills on this project. Following the fringe I’d love to tour Boorish Trumpson – no specific plans yet but I’ve invited industry along to the show to kickstart plans. I’m ready for a chat, programmers…

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

Oh there are so many shows I’m excited to see!! Clem Bogg-Hargroves is brilliant in SKANK at Pleasance – the laughs and the feels all at once. I am very excited for Jo Griffin, People Person, too – she’s doing a solo show for the first time following many years at the fringe as an amazing sketch duo. I have also been waiting since 2019 to see Ryan Lane’s solo show Will Be There Now In A Minute – I’ve heard his characters are brilliant and he won the Soho Rising award. It All by Cameron Cook is also an absurd and completely mesmerising piece of solo theatre that needs to be on your list. So looks like I have a thing for solo shows…and a final one for that list is the hilarious Frankie Thompson clowning around in Catts! I’m also very excited to check out Runesical by Gigglemug, who also wrote the brilliant and v funny Timpson the musical! There’s 8 whole people in that one I think. And finally, if I were a child (which I basically am) I’d see Strictly Come Barking by Jon and Ollie who are hilarious. A family show which I will be taking my fringe family to see.

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