Author Archives: Dan Lentell

EdFringe Talk: Racists, Recessions and Revolutions

Posted in *EdFestivals 2026, *Written Interviews by

“Never ask the actor to do anything you’re not ready to do yourself.”

WHO: Harry Conway

WHAT: “In 2016 an unprecedented wave of fake news exploded across our screens. Public trust was devastated as Brexit, Trump and an ever-powerful far right emerged. The masterminds? A few teens in a former socialist republic that even experts struggle to find on a map: Macedonia. Join Nadica, a driven Macedon/Brit on the ground floor of this gold rush who will stop at nothing to build her empire of lies as she defies tech giants, Covid lockdowns and a crumbling economy to champion Britain’s eager and ready supply of Racists, Recessions and Revolutions!”

WHERE: Pleasance Online (Venue 117) 

WHEN: 15:55 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

This will be my second time up for the whole month, but for my performer and co-creator Izzy it’ll be her first full Fringe so we’re making for a nice mix as a team. For myself I can’t wait to soak up that unique Fringe atmosphere where anything feels possible and wild creativity is a certainty; from what I hear from Izzy she’s just buzzing to see the whole thing from beginning to end for the first time so if we both survive it all still on our feet the plan is to make it for sunrise on Arthur’s Seat!

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2025 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

Racists, Recessions & Revolutions marks my first time directing and it’s been like diving into the middle of a massive ocean. It’s daunting for sure and at times I do well to tread water, but every hour working on the script or being in the rehearsal room brings fresh insights. The one strongest lesson that’s stuck with me is a pearl of wisdom from a great director called Amber Conroy; never ask the actor to do anything you’re not ready to do yourself. Most of the scenes audiences will see Izzy perform have been done by both of us, meaning we both know the script inside out.

Tell us about your show.

It’s actually a really sweet story, I was trying to get a start with directing after having just been the writer on a show last Fringe called How To Kill Your Landlord and Izzy very kindly took up a role I was casting for my first short directing experience at a Scratch Night shortly before Christmas 2025.

She was so great to work with I suggested we try and workshop a solo show and from that point on it’s been her drive and enthusiasm that’s led us from vague ideas to a full month run at the biggest arts festival in the world!

Her heart, soul and heritage have been poured into this play and it shows in the quality of the script and the pure depth and authenticity she gives to her performance of Nadica, our protagonist.

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

Ok, this is very out of left field but I think there are 2 shows to specifically go and see after ours for reasons that will be extremely clear for anyone who does come and see. Should also say that these are all well worth seeing even if you don’t come to ours!

So first off the bat is Costume Drama which is literally on in the exact same space as us (ZOO Playground 3) and shares some similarities so far as being a one-woman show, but the tone is the difference here as this team is doing something extremely heartfelt and uplifting. It’s all about the daughter of a famous sports mascot who must literally step into the shoes/shell-suit of her ailing father and pull a big performance out of the bag. Sure to be a fun time.

Then for something a little different I’m personally excited to see Heart Beats Strong which is a three hander dance and movement piece in one of the famously intimate Pleasance Bunkers, all centered on the performance of an alternative and positive form of masculinity from the one that typically grabs headlines. Everything I’ve seen about the show shouts talent and passion and I suspect it’ll turn out to be one of the festival’s hottest tickets.

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EdFringe Talk: I Bought a Flip Phone

Posted in *EdFestivals 2026, *Written Interviews by

“I’ve met brilliant people at Edinburgh Fringe, even just as a punter. The first person to ever read this script, Katie Plott, was someone I met at Edinburgh in 2023. God bless her.”

WHO: Panos Kandunias

WHAT: “Charlie’s sick of his iPhone. His best friend never replies, his mum nags him and everyone else’s life looks better than his own. Sick of scrolling, for his 27th birthday, he’s buying an old-school flip phone. No more five-hour screen time days. That’ll fix everything… won’t it? I Bought a Flip Phone is a hilarious, heartfelt dive into digital burnout, raunchy texts from men, and the feeling of waiting for your life to start. Join Charlie for an hour of hilarity and honesty as he searches for connection and some peace of mind.”

WHERE: Playground 2 at ZOO Playground (Venue 186) 

WHEN: 15:35 (60 min)

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Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

Yes, this is my first Edinburgh Fringe as a performer or writer. I’m very lucky to have my wonderful producer PJ who has produced at Ed Fringe several times and so has been really supportive, encouraging and listened to all my panicked voice notes.

EdFringe feels special because it really feels as though the city is enmeshed with it for that month and so the energy for it feels through the roof. The quality is unparalleled too. There’s a feeling that you could see something that will truly WOW you at any time of day.

I’ve met brilliant people at Edinburgh Fringe, even just as a punter. The first person to ever read this script, Katie Plott, was someone I met at Edinburgh in 2023. God bless her.

It really holds a special place in my heart. Some of the pieces that have inspired me most have been at Edinburgh and so it feels like a real joy to be bringing this to the Fringe.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2025 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

That you can’t do it all and that trying to is actually quite misery inducing.

To feel as though you’re on top of being in touch with friends and family and spending as much as time as you want with them, do well at work, sleep enough, do your skin care, exercise, read all the things you want… I could go on. But I’ve really started to accept that something has to give.
As much as I’d like to, I’ve started to accept that I cannot be available all the time and constantly say yes. It’s just not possible. If someone has the trick for that please let me know (I already drink a crazy amount of coffee).

Really, there is a huge amount of value in pausing and assessing what you want your attention to go towards at this moment. Maybe sometimes, it will be more towards work, sometimes more towards your partner, sometimes more towards your family or friends. I’m trying to put that into practice but I always feel like I’m falling short on something and need to get over that. I suppose I’m trying to put it in practice ahead of Fringe. It’s a really big endeavour and so I’m trying to focus on rest, and staying calm before the adrenaline will run my life for a month. This run will be the thing I focus on and everything else will have to take a backseat.

It’s a big part of what the show is about: feeling as though you’re now getting your life right. I think we’ve become so used to consuming everyone else’s lives, it’s really easy to feel as though we’re not doing enough.

Tell us about your show.

I wrote it and I perform it (the Earth just shattered). I wrote it a while back now and it felt a little bit like falling in love. When I would talk to friends about it felt a little bit as though I was talking about a crush. Sometimes you write something and it feels like wading through the thickest, nastiest mud to get it to where you want it. Whereas this felt, yes, like hard work, but it felt like a crush that would always text back. Whenever I was stressed, it would resolve itself. I would find a way forward. It was the best feeling and I’m so proud of it.

I then staged a couple workshop performances at spaces in London, after I had some wonderful friends watch me do it in my living room many times, to make sure I wasn’t entirely delusional and that it would work in front of an audience. Thank god audiences laughed and also loved the ending.
I then eventually got connected to amazing producers at HOME in Manchester, Lisa and Saff, who programmed the show for a four night run. That was the first time the show got reviewed, and it felt great to see critics and audiences connect with the play over that week and find it really funny. The play then got put on at Oxford Playhouse, and Theatre Royal Bath for short runs which were both wonderful.

Saff connected me to PJ, who read it and said she wanted to produce it for Edinburgh Fringe, and so here we are. As for after? Time will tell!

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

My dear, incredible friend Toby Graham is doing his play Slugs at 12:55 at Pleasance Courtyard. I can’t wait for people to see what he’s written. It’s darkly funny, it’s uncomfortable in the best way and I think people are really going to want to dissect what they’ve just seen when they watch it.

I’m really excited to see Katrina Bennett’s play Cruising. I’m not sure how you could read the blurb on the Fringe website and not be intrigued.

Racists, Recessions and Revolutions as well as Thermodrama both high on my list too!

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EdFringe Talk: Merlesque: How an Adult Woman Became a Mermaid

Posted in *EdFestivals 2026, *Written Interviews by

“A year ago I decided to become a mermaid. I was working in policy when Trump was elected and our funding was rescinded.”

WHO: Elle Rochford

WHAT: “Merlesque is ultimately a tale about a tail. Dr Elle Rochford is a policy expert uprooted by America’s 2024 presidential election. Finding her PhD useless in a dry job market, Elle decides to get wet. A real fish out of water epic, Merlesque is the true story of how she transformed from a statistician into a birthday party mermaid. Because sometimes all you can do is lean into the absurdity, challenge fascism, and keep treading water.”

WHERE: Haldane Theatre at theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall (Venue 53) 

WHEN: 21:35 (50 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

Yes! I have family in Scotland but I’ve never been to Edinburgh. I still can’t believe I’m on my way to perform at the biggest comedy festival in the world!

I can’t imagine a better place to premiere a show. Edinburgh Fringe is unlike any other festival in terms of scale and reputation. It’s THE place to see people and shows before they become household names. I can’t wait to be inspired by the new and experimental work. Meeting comedians and performers from around the world is almost as exciting as getting to do my show.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2025 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

A year ago I decided to become a mermaid. I was working in policy when Trump was elected and our funding was rescinded. During my job hunt a friend of friend referred me to mermaiding. She worked as a birthday party mermaid and explained how to get started. It was a huge departure from anything I’d ever done but after taking improv classes I’ve really embraced a “yes and” mentality. I’ve been saying yes to big, absurd dreams. Why not dive in to a new adventure?

Tell us about your show.

My show is the true story of how I went from a statistician to a birthday party mermaid. I had big plans to get a little house, a dog, and start my family but life and American politics got in the way. Now I’m a mermaid comedian, a real clownfish and I’m taking my story to Edinburgh Fringe. My producer Emily Nevins is a talented performer in her own right. We met while I was working on Outlaugh a comedy competition show with the rules of the tv show Survivor. The creator of Outlaugh, Jared Laxer, is the assistant producer of Merlesque. Jared and I met when I competed on Outlaugh. I was immediately eliminated but began working behind the scenes. Now Jared and I coproduce shows in New York City. Merlesque is premiering at Fringe and I plan to run it in New York in the fall.

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

I am the cohost of Outlaugh: Edinburgh, a comedy show with the rules of the tv show Survivor! Outlaugh will be doing a six day run. Twelve comedians, six shows, one winner. I’ll be guest starring one night on Lil’ Miss Kate Ward of the State is live 1930s radio play about a precocious and adventurous orphan. Each show will have a new story and new guest stars so it’s worth checking out more than once. I also highly recommend Kento’s Japanese Grandma Funeral. Kento balances grief and absurdity with this toughing clown show. Can’t get enough mermaid content? Check out Eleanor Morton’s show The Mermaid.

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EdFringe Talk: Lizzy Sunshine

Posted in *EdFestivals 2026, *Written Interviews by

“The lesson that I’ve absorbed the most is you must rest as hard as you work. I’ve prioritized rest, breaks, and my health in the last year so that when it’s time to go Beast Mode I’m well-equipped!”

WHO: Liz Coin

WHAT: “When her partner doesn’t show, Lizzy Sunshine makes the audience her co-star. She promised a two-person show. She got… you. Following sold-out runs at Soho Playhouse and beyond, Liz Coin is BACK with this chaotic, feel-good spectacle! Expect a fast-paced hour packed with gags gone wrong, big characters and something real just beneath the surface. ‘A smart piece of theater masquerading as a clown show’ ***** (TheatreVillage.co.uk). ‘A master of comedy & audience engagement’ ***** (RichardsTheatreReviews.com). ***** (Young-Perspective.net). ***** (EvulveProductions.com). ****** (Liz’s Mom).”

WHERE: Coorie at Gilded Balloon Patter House (Venue 24) 

WHEN: 14:20 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

This will be my SECOND time in Edinburgh! I came to the Fringe for the first time last summer for the first 2 weeks with a more work-in-progress version of Lizzy Sunshine. It was incredible and a WHIRLWIND – everything was new to me and so exciting! This year I’m doing the full month, fundraised 5x the amount of money, have a team of 4, and know a bit more of what to expect/how to succeed. And I know better than to call it “EdinBERG” so that’s a start.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2025 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

This last year has felt like my necktie was caught in a rocket ship – SO much growth, new opportunities, and a bit of a “level up” on my social media and general resume. I’ve learned that the more you put yourself out there the more you get picked up, which I suppose seems obvious but is easier said than done. I’ve learned a ton about content creation, crowdfunding (we raised $14k for Fringe), and touring with a solo show. In the last 12 months I’ve done my show in Chicago, North Carolina, New York City, and London. Some major lessons include: film every show because you never know which will be “the good one,” cancel the show if you are actually too sick to perform (I had pneumonia & still performed… dumb), and you will always feel like you’re behind. You’re not, you’re right on time.

The lesson that I’ve absorbed the most is you must rest as hard as you work. I’ve prioritized rest, breaks, and my health in the last year so that when it’s time to go Beast Mode I’m well-equipped!

Tell us about your show.

I wrote Lizzy Sunshine and have been developing it since 2024! The original idea was an over-the-top charismatic, energetic young girl putting on a show with her addict brother who promised to show up but never does. Lizzy Sunshine was a nickname from my mom because I’d always make the bad times brighter, and this show is for all the people who had to learn how to become sunshine.

I promise it’s not sad – Lizzy sees her shows as giving Broadway spectacle, in reality it’s giving church basement and the Glee soundtrack.

I first developed the show with Tim Murray (Witches, HBO) into a 20 minute piece for Solocom NYC. It matured into a full-fledged hour through trial and error shows in NYC, Minneapolis, and even my Iowa hometown community theatre! I worked with Holly Mandel on plot strengthening, and eventually brought on my now-director Makena Reynolds. Makena is an incredible director who saw my very first 20-minute piece ON ACCIDENT in 2024.

I have been my own producer from the jump, even as we dove into uncharted waters Off-Broadway at Soho Playhouse (sold-out baby!) and Off-West End in London at the Drayton Arms Theatre. This summer I’ve brought on some associate producers (Lauren Herd and Ron Weiss) to help, as well as a few Northwestern University students to be my production support staff.

After Fringe, I will be taking the show back to the states to be turned into a special! My dream is to have Dropout produce it. I am really hoping to meet more industry people this Fringe and make connections in the Film/TV space. The plan is to develop the show concept/character into its own pilot and work on pitching that! Lizzy Sunshine is just the beginning of my writing career and I’m so proud that it will always be the first big chance I took on myself.

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

YESSS go see Sid Singh’s Love Bombing – I saw him do it in London and it’s hilarious and lowkey VERY touching. I’d also recommend Alexis Sakellaris’s “Child Star” – he talks and sings about being in the German Glee and it’s ridiculous and perfect.

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EdFringe Talk: I Almost Died for This?! (A love story. Sort of.)

Posted in *EdFestivals 2026, *Written Interviews by

“The huge challenge of Edfringe is probably a big part of what makes it such an amazing and satisfying experience overall.”

WHO: Kristina Libby

WHAT: “‘A powerful piece about love, loss, and choosing connection’ ***** (AllAboutSolo.com). ‘All Soul’ (Forbes). Winner: Best Storytelling Show – United Solo Fest. I Almost Died for This?! is a one-woman show about a good girl who meets her soulmate, gets in way over her head, suffers a brain injury, and comes roaring back. Kristina Libby has been published in The New Yorker, McSweeney’s, Elle, and appeared on ABC, NBC, CBS and PBS.”

WHERE: Space 1 at theSpace on the Mile (Venue 39) 

WHEN: Varies (55 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

No! I went last year as an audience member and fell in love with the whole experience. I loved it; it felt spiritual and magical and I wanted to be part of that. I love the small spaces and big, ambitious shows. As an audience member I felt like I received so much wisdom and of course, there is so much joy and laughter. I was already developing my show, I Almost Died for This, but attending gave me rocket fuel to really make a great show and bring it back.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2025 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

In the last twelve months, I’ve really seen how essential authentic and transparent communication is with each other. My show is my true story, laid as bare as possible, so as to allow other people to see themselves and find a sacred space to share their feelings.

So much of my life was about being a “good girl” and required that I behave with a mask on my true wants and needs. But, when I was able to finally be myself, I was also to really have deep, compelling and meaningful conversations with people who then felt free to be themselves. I think that is the power of this show but also the power of living as holistically as we can.

Tell us about your show.

My show, I Almost Died for This?!, is autobiographical. It’s the story of a good girl, who gets in way over her head, finds a soulmate, loses a soulmate, gets a traumatic brain injury and then comes roaring back. The recovery is due to the twinned healing power of art and community.

It’s self-written and self-produced. But directed by Padraic Lillis with violin accompaniment by Daniel Lee. We performed in NYC twice – both times for 3 night runs to sold out audiences and great reviews. All About Solo gave the show five stars and said “May we all have Kristina Libby’s heart.” On the strength of those runs, we are taking it to Fringe – but also I love the festival. It’s a beautiful month celebrating creativity and creative voices. I can’t wait to be there!

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

Friendliest by Drew Lausch – a twisty story with an ending you won’t expect.

Once Upon A Wall Street by Jerry Topitzer – Jerry takes on the secret nature of the financial world with real wit. It’s sharp, funny, and surprisingly moving.

How to Poop in an Outhouse at 54 Below by Kona Morris – The title alone should be enough! Kona is a fearless storyteller who commits fully to the bit and takes you somewhere completely unexpected.

Stay by Sally Brooks – Sally’s work is deeply human and tells a beautiful story of how one unexpected act can change an entire life.

American Assholes: Escape to Edinburgh by Lauren LoGiudice – Lauren is one of the funniest people I know, and this is her at her best: irreverent, self-aware, and a total blast.

Duck by Sam Morrison – Sam is a brilliant performer with a sharp eye for the human in the comedy. A must see!

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EdFringe Talk: It’s A Struggle Coming Out

Posted in *EdFestivals 2026, *Written Interviews by

“I have learned that it is okay not to always have every answer. In fact, it is better to ask for guidance than to allow the fear of potential judgment to dampen my productivity and faith in myself.”

WHO: Paige Iacobacci

WHAT: “When four Evangelical teens plan to convert citizens for their debutante ball, a closeted goth teen falls for a vampire, igniting a campy crusade of repression, romance and religious hysteria – forcing her to choose between her church, friends and thirst for authenticity. Written and performed by students at USC and fresh off a sold-out run in Los Angeles, It’s A Struggle Coming Out makes its international debut!”

WHERE: Upper Theatre at theSpace @ Niddry St (Venue 9) 

WHEN: 18:05 (55 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

Yes, this is my first EdFringe experience! In fact, this is my first experience participating in any arts festival. As the On-Campus Producer for “It’s a Struggle Coming Out,” I am thrilled to take our show abroad and to attend productions from around the world. I am so grateful to be traveling to Edinburgh and look forward to being surrounded by thousands of inspiring artists and audience members who share the passion for theatre as I do.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2025 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

Two of the biggest lessons I have learned while producing this show are to trust my ability to take on roles that intimidate me and to recognize that honesty and humility are essential to good leadership. When I applied to produce “It’s a Struggle Coming Out,” I was nervous to take on the position because I had never produced a theatre production before. However, since accepting the role, I have learned that it is okay not to always have every answer. In fact, it is better to ask for guidance than to allow the fear of potential judgment to dampen my productivity and faith in myself. Like the young women in our show, who face uncertainty and struggle with self-doubt, I was often insecure, too. However, being surrounded by such an amazing cast and crew and with Fiona’s guidance, I was able to trust myself and let go of some of the pressure, leaving me truly ecstatic for EdFringe and the work that lies ahead.

Tell us about your show.

Our show, “It’s a Struggle Coming Out,” written by Ben Berman and directed by Alec Schwartz, is a witty farce that combines early 2000s humor and film references with themes of religion, friendship, and sexuality. Produced by Los Angeles Theatre Initiative, led by Fiona McGrath, the production features a cast and crew of students from the University of Southern California. In February, we debuted the show in Hollywood in a sold-out, three-show preview run. Since then, the production team, cast, and crew have been working tirelessly to make the show as polished, hilarious, and meaningful as possible for our run in theSpace at Niddry Street. Throughout our EdFringe performances, we hope to foster vibrant, interactive audiences, build momentum for the show, and lay a strong foundation for potential future productions beyond our own.

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

After It’s A Struggle, go see the rest of what LATI is bringing to Fringe this year!

Be sure to catch Revelation which is running back to back with our show! It is making its international debut following a sold out run in New York and boldly examines the horror and hope of being American through the lens of the four horseman of the apocalypse.

Guns In Dragonland is back after a critically acclaimed run at last year’s festival with a new production and cast. It’s a powerful and moving show about the very timely subject of gun violence in American classrooms. The show is somehow tender, inventive, yet quietly devastating, the kind of hour that gets people talking long after they leave the theatre.

I would also make sure to catch DECKHAND which received 5 stars at Hollywood Fringe and makes its international debut in the last week of the festival, it is a fast paced comedy set aboard a sinking ship that explores the toxic and nuanced relationship between an assistant and their boss.

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EdFringe Talk: Guns in Dragonland

Posted in *EdFestivals 2026, *Written Interviews by

“There is something so special about a singular event that brings thousands of artists of many mediums, countries, and stages of their careers together to celebrate what we all love most in the world: performing arts.”

WHO: Kathryn Hansen

WHAT: “Navigating youth is a universal challenge, but with the constant threat of firearms, American students are faced with their own mortality before they stop wearing tutus to school. Fortunately, these kids don’t have to face this horror alone, meet the guardian angels of America’s youth: dragons. Created and presented by students, Guns in Dragonland is a series of vignettes exploring American school society and its shocking overlap with America’s gun culture. Witness as these children and their dragon guardians grapple with the dangers of gun violence with humour, bravery, and compassion. ‘Surprising and extraordinary’ (David Henry Hwang).”

WHERE: Upper Theatre at theSpace @ Niddry St (Venue 9) 

WHEN: 18:05 (55 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

This is my first EdFringe! I am so honored to be a part of such a vibrant community of artists that overtake the city of Edinburgh. There is something so special about a singular event that brings thousands of artists of many mediums, countries, and stages of their careers together to celebrate what we all love most in the world: performing arts.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2025 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

This year, I have had a lot of time to reflect on the role that art plays in my life. I was struggling with my relationship to art, felt burned out, and couldn’t find that creative spark that used to burn so bright. I had the realization that I stopped letting my curiosity take the lead; I wasn’t allowing myself to just explore things that I loved just for the sake of loving them. It’s definitely a difficult balance to find when your career is in a creative field, but I have been trying to more consciously follow my curiosity and allow myself to be inspired again by the world around me. Sometimes, you need to allow yourself to nerd out about the little things, like the way the trees rustle or a really good song!

Tell us about your show.

I am stage managing “Guns in Dragonland” written by Eislinn Gracen, and produced by Los Angeles Theatre Initiative. LATI brings groups from different universities across the US to the Fringe every year, and I am lucky enough to be a part of the incredible team of students from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles who worked on this project! This play premiered last year at the Fringe with another one of LATI’s groups and will continue to develop after this production!

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

After Guns In Dragonland, go see the rest of what LATI is bringing to Fringe this year.

Revelation and It’s A Struggle Coming Out are both making their international debuts following sold-out runs in New York and Los Angeles! Revelation explores the horror and hope of being american through the lens of the four horsemen of the apocalypse and It’s A Struggle brings you everything you could want in the form of campy queer vampires and their thirst for authenticity.

I would also make sure to catch DECKHAND which received 5 stars at Hollywood Fringe and makes its international debut in the last week of the festival, it is a fast paced comedy set aboard a sinking ship that explores the toxic and nuanced relationship between an assistant and their boss.

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EdFringe Talk: Mel Hudson: Richard Ashcroft Revived My Libido

Posted in *EdFestivals 2026, *Written Interviews by

“Who knows what will happen? Hopefully either a stratospheric career jump or a deep and long-lasting friendship with myself.”

WHO: Mel Hudson

WHAT: “See how Mel Hudson revived her libido, courtesy of Richard Ashcroft. In 2022 Mel thinks her love life is over. She is prepared to go to her grave as a sexually redundant cat lady. Then 3 things happen: lockdown ends, the cat dies and Mel attends a momentously revitalising musical event at Crystal Palace Park Bowl. Suddenly men are not so paused. From Alan Partridge, The Catherine Tate Show, Hudson and Pepperdine. ‘What an honest, funny show, cleverly insightful and life affirming’ (Phil Clarke, Producer of Peep Show).”

WHERE: Wee Room at Gilded Balloon Teviot (Venue 14) 

WHEN: 16:20 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

No! I was here way back in 1998 and 1999 with my double-act, Hudson and Pepperdine. Our first show was called ‘Beaver Pitch’ – we had a really successful Edinburgh, despite a couple of awful moments (a reviewer for The Herald hated us and our respective childminders fell out very badly on the same day) – we got a pilot for Radio 4 from it, which grew into 4 series of The Hudson and Pepperdine Show. I was back in 2011 with a sketch group, Sketch Department, and our show Please Retain for Your Records, which grew into some very deep and long-lasting friendships. ‘Richard Ashcroft’ is my first solo show! Who knows what will happen? Hopefully either a stratospheric career jump or a deep and long-lasting friendship with myself.

I love coming as a punter – I’ve been up many times when not performing myself. As a performer it’s slightly harder work, but still liberating and exhilarating. Unique.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2025 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

I think the huge thing is to do with managing doubt and fear – imposter syndrome if you like. When I did my first preview for an invited audience back in December, I couldn’t sleep the night before, and the ‘I just can’t do this/who am I kidding?/ why would anyone want to hear this?’ voice was loud in my head all day. My poor fantastic daughter (who is in the show – briefly) and my amazing director, Sam, practically had to scrape me off the floor and drag me to the Museum of Comedy (where the show was happening – not where I was being permanently housed as an exhibit. Hopefully one day.)

But as soon as I got there – something kicked in. I felt happy in the venue, I always feel happy in theatres, I remember that I know what I’m doing and it’s not really about me – it’s about the audience, and love. It went really well, and so you move on to the next one. Sam (Holland-Bunyan) always says, as older women, ‘We hold our nerve and we take our space’ – and every time the doubt creeps back in, I remember that. It’s taking me time to ‘absorb’ that lesson – maybe you never fully do – maybe you never fully SHOULD do. But I’ve done the show 11 times now and it’s always a total blast, to be honest. I love it.

Tell us about your show.

The show is called Richard Ashcroft Revived My Libido, and it’s obviously about my own experience. It’s about how, aged 56, I accidentally repeated a level on the multi-player RPG of life, one you’ve normally completed, as a heterosexual woman, by about 16 – that is, developing an adolescent infatuation with a rock star – and finding that that’s a gateway drug to men in general. In my case, I was resigned to life as a celibate cat lady – then I went to a gig at Crystal Palace Bowl, fell in love with Richard Ashcroft (ex-The Verve) and finally got my libido back, after a ten-year drought. But it’s also a sort of history of my libido from birth to now – libido in all senses, including your creativity. And it’s a paean to Richard Ashcroft. 

It’s self-penned and self-produced, with amazing help from Ripley North (my daughter) who’s just left drama school (The Bridge Theatre Training School in London) and who inspires me every day. So she has a role in the show, as herself.

Sam I’ve known for years, she’s a fantastic director, and has really been co-producer. Again back in December, I had booked the venue to do the first outing – and it occurred to me to ask for her input. The first thing she suggested I do was actually write it. I was wavering about it and thinking of cancelling the booking. She said ‘I strongly urge you to commit’. So I wrote it in ten days, sending bits to her as I went, and saying ‘does any of this work? It needs editing doesn’t it?’ – and she said ‘yep just keep vomiting it all out and we can cut it later.’ (We are still cutting it.)
As for after Edinburgh – so far we’ve got one more follow-up date booked in October (16th) at Museum of Comedy in London again – but I’d like to do more dates in different parts of the UK – so hit me up! (C/O Blue Book Artist Management).

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

Do see ‘Am I Losing My Mind Or Just My Figure’ – (Playground 1 at Zoo Playground, 12.45pm, 7th-30th August) – a wonderfully moving and funny piece about a young woman navigating relationships, pregnancy and miscarriage in the modern age. They’re not on Twitter, sorry! Insta is @amilosingmymindorjustmyfigure

And Dan Tiernan (Quartz and All, 22.25pm, Monkey Barrel 1, 3-30 August) is my pick of standups for this year – so funny. Again not on Twitter.

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EdFringe Talk: Hannah Byczkowski: Killer

Posted in *EdFestivals 2026, *Written Interviews by

“Wherever you walk into you can expect to see something you’d never seen before, whether that’s a bloke eating cheese on stage at 4am or a half-naked person covered in slime. What’s not to love?”

WHO: Hannah Byczkowski

WHAT: “Winner of the first season of BBC’s The Traitors, Hannah Byczkowski digs into death in her debut hour. In her hilarious, no-nonsense style, Hannah explores everything from craft projects for loved one’s ashes, funeral faux pas and why she’s not running from serial killers. Hannah is the co-host and creator of the hit podcast Ghost Huns with over 5 million listens and 1.3 million followers on TikTok. NTA winner. TV also includes The Stand-Up Sketch Show (ITV2) and Celebrity Weakest Link (BBC One). ‘Want to howl with laughter? See Hannah. She is a comedy goddess’ (Claudia Winkleman).”

WHERE: Turret at Gilded Balloon Teviot (Venue 14) 

WHEN: 17:10 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

It’s my third year in Edinburgh performing, but my first time doing an hour for the whole run! I’m so excited to do my show every single day, run (I use that term loosely) around Edinburgh doing different gigs.

What I love about the Fringe is that every venue gets involved, wherever you walk into you can expect to see something you’d never seen before, whether that’s a bloke eating cheese on stage at 4am or a half-naked person covered in slime. What’s not to love?

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2025 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

The biggest thing I’ve learned is that for your show to be good it needs to be consistent, it doesn’t matter how big or small the audience is, or who’s actually there, every show during Edinburgh needs to be the best I can do it. And I think I’m getting that now!

Tell us about your show.

I wrote the show with fabulous direction from the wonderful Rob Deering. It started as a show about my funeral but then I thought….that’s a bit self obsessed and self obsession is certainly not a trait of a comedian. It’s now become something else with a hint of true crime!

I really wanted to delve into what death means to me, how I feel about my own death, but the show had other ideas and it’s become something totally different, and I’m really excited for people to see it.

No plans as yet to do anything for after Edinburgh but things may change so watch this space!

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

Rachel Fairburn is absolutely amazing and hilarious, you should definitely see her. Also Adam Greene and his show ‘The Wizard of Ozempic’ is one of the funniest things I’ve seen in ages!

I think people should see things they wouldn’t usually watch. If you see something interesting, a poster by someone you’ve never heard of, take a punt on the show. Edinburgh is a place for exploration and taking chances, so do it!

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EdFringe Talk: Citizen Otherplace

Posted in *EdFestivals 2026, *Written Interviews by

” I felt especially skilled to talk about how INSANE the American medical and medical- billing system is.”

WHO: Stacy Price

WHAT: “What happens when a diagnosis makes you a target? As the audience “checks in,” a medical crisis spirals into a surreal chase led by Mike, a relentless billings collector. Through a kaleidoscope of uncomfortable characters, this show satirizes the absurdity of the American medical system. Wildly funny and deeply unsettling, it’s a high stakes journey into the heart of a broken system. Hilarious yet harrowing glimpse into a future the UK may soon inherit. Created by viral sketch artist Stacy Price (Groundlings, Actors Gang) this show blends comedy with total chaos, leaving the audience asking: is this real?”

WHERE: Pickle Studio at Greenside @ Riddles Court (Venue 16) 

WHEN: 13:45 (50 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

The Edinburgh Fringe is a once in a life time experience and I have never been before! One of our producers hasn’t been in 20 years! She found a picture of herself on a staircase and wants to re-take the photo. It’s a real full circle moment for her. Our Creative Producer attended as recenty as last year and has a real lay of the land! I think remembering that this is a great opportunity to SEE not just be SEEN is very important. We are so lucky to come across the artists we will in this fantastic place! AH, I’m so excited!

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2025 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

Patience, patience, patience. After months of development, our first workshop was in NYC, right by 34th street the day of a huge New York Knicks’ game, which meant wild problems with transit and then there were about 5 other disasters. Just because things aren’t what you planned, doesn’t mean you don’t have a lot to be grateful for! In preparation, I also had a moment or two of panic, expectation or negativity and sometimes that all can distract you: getting to do our shows is the best time ever, I’ve learned never to forget to have the best time ever! Shows have a life of their own and you can learn a lot from an audience, even a single audience member can teach you about what your show is, what it wants. Maybe it’s woo woo, but I’m SO thankful for it all.

Tell us about your show.

Citizen Otherplace is a Mel Brooks-ian, David Lynchian, nightmare comedy about the United Stated healthcare system. I am a cancer survivor and the actor/writer and creator of Citizen. I felt especially skilled to talk about how INSANE the American medical and medical- billing system is. Citizen Otherplace is interactive and wild. Audiences will throw felt fruit. Audiences will meet 5 different characters. Audiences will witness all this as a one-person show. Citizen takes its title from a Susan Sontag quote “Illness is the nightside of life, a more onerous citizenship…we are each obliged, at least for a spell, to identify ourselves as citizen of that other place.” While we have had three fantastic feedback workshops, this will be the WORLD PREMIER of CITIZEN OTHERPLACE. I began working on Citizen at Groundlings and SAG AFTRA workshops. I had no idea what it was, just that I had a lot of things to say, alot of people to be and it was funny.

Citizen started off as a pilot, and the first scene of it was written during treatment. As I began to perform pieces of it for small groups, I realised it was actually a FULL on theatrical PLAY. It’s a real talking piece and I’m so proud to get to show it to the world! Many long time talented friends and producers came together to make this happen Creative Producer, Lara Clear,a producer and actress who I’ve worked on several projects with, has had recent credit such as executive producing the true-crime thriller Dead Man Wire, directed by Gus Van Sant, starring Bill Skarsgård and Al Pacino. Jen Issacson, Producer, is not only a long time friend but a two-time TONY Award Winning Producer. Amy DePaola, a director of past production LODGED, is billed as Consulting Producer. Providing Direction on the project is a collection of incredibly talented individuals including Development, Govind Kumar, a Groundling Sunday Company member, and Bredan Gill, Executive Producer, current direction for Edinburgh. Additional team members include Kaitlin Burkes, Sound Design, Gregory Craft, Light Design and Amit Gajwami, Costuming.

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

SEE EVERYTHING! This is a chance to experience many of the plethora of shows of the Fringe in a more accessible and affordable online format. Our wonderful friends The Wardrobe Ensemble are presenting The Great Gatsby which has taken on a digital life after live shows were cancelled in January, and which Tamsin from Popelei happens to also star in. Patricia Gets Ready (for a date with a man that used to hit her) also looks incredible. We were lucky enough to see the brilliant Gobby live and we will certainly be re-watching on the sofa with a bag of popcorn.

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