Category Archives: EdFestivals 2023

EdFringe Talk: The Ghost of a Smile

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“As a younger guy I had my own share of ‘imposter syndrome’, I’ve successfully banished that to where it belongs!”

WHO: Gavin Robertson

WHAT: “Two of Charles Dickens’ creepy tales – with a comic twist. Told on alternate days. Tales with a tingle, but also a giggle! Two yarns to chill and charm: a traveller encounters a ghostly chair and, in a deserted Edinburgh carriageworks, a tipsy reveller is spirited away by, well… spirits! Like The Woman in Black – but funnier, with fewer people! Adapted and directed by Gavin Robertson and performed by Nicholas Collett. From the team who brought you last year’s hilarious detective mash-up, Done To Death, By Jove! ‘Hilarious and quite brilliant!’ (InternationalTimes.it).”

WHERE: theSpace @ Surgeons Hall – Stephenson Theatre (Venue 53) 

WHEN: 13:05 (35 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

No – I first played in 1987 at Assembly in the 350-seater Ballroom with THUNDERBIRDS F.A.B before it went to London’s West End in 1989 and broke the box-office record at The Apollo Theatre set by Sir John Gielgud in 1936! It then played a further five seasons in the West End up to 2001.

I also was in the infamous “12 Angry Men” at Assembly with Bill Bailey and a host of stand-up comedians which went on to Australia and NZ. I was in “One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest” with Christian Slater and McKenzie Crook before its two West End transfers, amid the furore of cancelled shows when Christian got the measles and everyone thought it was a publicity stunt! (It wasn’t!)

I’ve brought several of my own shows and got into international touring as a result. I think I’ve been over 20 times, including as my Spoken Word alter-ego, ‘Greg Byron’, but I haven’t kept count.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2022 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

To appreciate the life I have! I love creating shows and touring them. It’s fulfilling to realise you’re a genuinely creative person and to have built a reputation that means an idea can become a reality and then share that not only in the UK but abroad. I’ve also accepted now that stories are a powerful means of sharing experiences, and whereas as a younger guy I had my own share of ‘imposter syndrome’, I’ve successfully banished that to where it belongs! Stories encapsulate our humanity – and whether a show is serious or comic, it provides a shared experience for however long it lasts that is escapist and short-lived, or stays with you for years, and both are valuable.

Tell us about your show.

I adapted the two Charles Dickens ghost stories as I wanted a show specifically for Autumn touring, and not necessarily in a theatre. (we’ve performed it in a crypt, for example). Nicholas Collett, who performs it, had to learn the show twice, a year apart, as the initial show was cancelled the day before as the venue went into lockdown! We’ve taken it to the USA, and will again – and have various dates in Autumn 2023 in the UK.

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

Casey Jay Andrews is a lyrical writer. I discovered her in Adelaide after she’d done her show “Archive of Educated Hearts” in Edinburgh. She’s also a designer so creates almost an installation (depending on the show). I’d say the design element has given way to the storytelling recently but she tackles big subjects with miniature props and set, and the informality of the style draws you in to her very descriptive writing style. I don’t care for award schemes myself, but she’s won heaps, if that’s how you rate work!

“How To Drink Wine Like A Wanker”- is a deceptively light-sounding show about wine (obviously) and Anna Thomas uses different wines to compliment different stories of her life. But be warned, there’s a sting in the tale, and the Patriarchy doesn’t come out of it well!

“Appraisal” at Assembly is an innocuous-sounding title. Based on true experiences, it took off last year before traveling to Adelaide. For many people in ‘normal’ jobs I think it touches a nerve as an generally unpleasant and judgemental, not to say manipulative, process. Be prepared to wince!

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EdFringe Talk: Anu Vaidyanathan: Blimp

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“Last year was tough because I came to Scotland thinking there were four venues for fringe artists to perfect their acts in. Turned out there were 400 (or maybe more).”

WHO: Any Vaidyanathan

WHAT: “Welcome into the meandering mind of a South-Indian somebody who could be anybody. Blimp is a stand-up show about a woman filmmaker’s view of the world as she attempts to survive between the words action and cut. A comic tale of a full-time mom with part-time attempts at sanity, sewing and show business. Unlearning her lessons as an engineer, when all she had to do was stick forks in toasters, Anu describes her great adventures and paints a nomadic picture of the life and times of a comedian, filmmaker and sometime triathlete.”

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

WHEN: 19:15 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

This will be my second visit to Scotland. My debut was last year and I was self-produced, doing all the footwork myself (and my show grew its audience into the last week consistently). I also worked 4 hours at night keeping up with some clients in America. This kind of overworking made me appreciate how a south Indian comic is an equal opportunity reject of two great nations who preach women empowerment =). I had to sell a kidney to afford the fringe last year. This year, I am considering hawking my gall bladder.

The Fringe is fantastic, even with all of its very real problems, because the congregation of that much artistic energy can only mean one thing; an immediate invocation of the fabulous memento mori -isation of one’s voice and faculties.

Last year was tough because I came to Scotland thinking there were four venues for fringe artists to perfect their acts in. Turned out there were 400 (or maybe more). Even with so many people, I felt extremely isolated on many occasions. My family managed to sneak in for a few days in the middle (and I send a heart-felt thanks to other comedians who are also parents who helped me figure this bit out with kids visiting), but it was an interesting couple of weeks. I felt I evolved by a lightyear in that month. Creatively I was hungrier than ever before. One year wiser, this year I have procrastinated on everything because filmmaking has been eating my head, as has touring my debut hour (which has really traveled all over the world now), so I feel like I am back to square one.

I experienced the festival as a punter because I did not know what a producer was. In my second year, I desperately wish I had a producer but still cannot afford one. I think once a punter, always a punter. etc. etc.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2022 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

One very useful piece of advice I received before I went to the festival last year was to stay away from alcohol. I thought that was easily done since I was not a big fan to begin with, but I did manage to drink some wine with the legendary Camille O’Sullivan and pull an all-nighter before my departure. I think I’ve learned that any such dumb-assery of staying up past my bed time is a bad idea. I don’t think I will follow my own advice on this this year however. Check in with me on 20th August =)

Another lesson was that I should not be judgemental about social media. I am a luddite and have some difficulty with this, but I am learning to circumnavigate this better.

Tell us about your show.

Blimp is a one-woman show but it is also a one-independent-woman’s show. I was very eager to hire a producer and director this year but I was under resourced as usual and there was simply no time or money to achieve this. I have written it and built this bit by bit at various places with gigs and works in progress at Machllyneth, Prague and New York, and every friend I could bore for whatever length of time they allotted to my mesmerizing voice.

My debut hour BC:AD – Before Children, After Diapers, toured world-wide with appearances off-Broadway, in India and several places in Europe/UK. We don’t seem to be done yet! I have at least a dozen dates outstanding, some after August. With any luck, Blimp will travel to those same places.

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

I would watch the Blue Badge Bunch. I think this is the best show I have ever seen so far. I also think Ed MacArthur is a genius. I watched his solo show at SoHo Theatre and walked away very inspired. I would definitely go and watch String V Spitta. I would also watch anything by Sindhu Vee (her show at the Fringe last year was spectacular. I tried taking notes but was too engrossed in what she was saying to do anything else). I would watch anything by Vir Das (if he is back), Myra Dubois, La Clique, Circus Abyssinia, Bad Teacher, Drunk Women Solving Crime… I would also watch anything that an artist themselves were flyering for outside the hour before their show =)

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EdFringe Talk: Le Wine Club

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“I was keen to combine my cabaret work with my new found wine knowledge and create something a bit unique.”

WHO: Anna Larkin

WHAT: “Join chanteuse and sommelier Anna Lou in her wine bar as she invites you to discover the world of wine and solve the mystery of her lover’s death. Musical-comedy storytelling from cabaret performer and qualified wine geek Anna Lou Larkin. For anyone who has ever wondered what wine to pair with revenge. ‘The twisted lyricist your mother warned you about’ (ThisIsCabaret.com).”

WHERE: Gilded Balloon Patter Hoose – Nip (Venue 117) 

WHEN: 15:00 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

My first Fringe was in 2004 as a wee student in a play. Since then I’ve enjoyed Edfringe working in children’s theatre and late night cabaret, busking on the Royal Mile, even working as a Fringe steward on the High St. For me, performing is always the best buzz but I have had a few relaxing years as a punter too. Sleep is optional either way…

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2022 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

So in 2022 I had a baby so I ‘ve definitely been learning some very big things! I think the main thing is learning how to make time for work and remembering that your work is still important as a freelancer. When you don’t have the same neat maternity leave as your friends you have to work harder to hold onto your professional identity. I’m learning to be kinder to myself and getting there slowly!

Tell us about your show.

I wrote the show, with input from my director Michael (conveniently also my husband!) I was keen to combine my cabaret work with my new found wine knowledge and create something a bit unique. We premiered at Brighton Fringe then Guildford Fringe and have done a short run at The Other Palace Studio plus some one off nights. So it’s been around a bit already, though hoping we have a slightly revamped version for Edfringe. And then we take over the world, of course.

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

Ooh there’s so much exciting stuff on. I’m looking forward to Dracula In Space from brilliant comedy string quartet Bowjangles and also Drag Queen Wine Tasting because I can’t resist a bit of cabaret and a bit of vino!

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EdFringe Talk: Casting the Runes

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“The towering monoliths of trash owing to the bin strike at the end of last year’s Fringe, made us 100% glad that chosen to go completely flyer free! We invited people to take photos of our poster board or scan the QR code instead of handing out paper.”

WHO: Noel Byrne

WHAT: “‘Who is this who is coming?’ You are invited to the edge of your seat, on a journey to the darkest corners of the night… Expert on the so-called supernatural, Edward Dunning, is a scholar and a sceptic. But when he crosses paths with the mysterious Mr. Karswell, Dunning’s life becomes a waking nightmare. A chilling new adaptation of MR James’ classic ghost stories featuring remarkable puppetry and a haunting original soundtrack. Our advice? Don’t come alone… Praise for Box Tale Soup: ‘They are wonderful’ **** (Times). ***** ‘Remarkable’ (TheWeeReview.com). ***** ‘Brilliant’ (ThreeWeeks).”

WHERE: Pleasance Courtyard – Pleasance Above (Venue 33) 

WHEN: 11:45 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

This is far from my first Edinburgh Fringe. My company started bringing shows to the Fringe in 2013, and we’ve been every year since. However, I first came to the Festival when I was just sixteen years old, and it just blew my mind. I was into theatre and circus, and just fell in love with the atmosphere and feeling of possibility. I’ve performed at every Fringe since then, often as a street performer, and it’s an important part of my year. In addition to providing a platform for my company to share work, it gives me a chance to connect with artists from all over the world, and even after all this time, I still leave feeling inspired!

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2022 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

The towering monoliths of trash owing to the bin strike at the end of last year’s Fringe, made us 100% glad that chosen to go completely flyer free! We invited people to take photos of our poster board or scan the QR code instead of handing out paper. We make most of our set and puppets from reclaimed, recycled or sustainable material and avoiding waste is important to us – ‘Don’t be wasteful, be creative’ is a kind of unofficial motto for the company. We’ll definitely be taking the flyer free route again this year.

Aside from that, last year was our boldest and most creatively challenging show yet – we really had no idea what our audiences would think, which was nerve-wracking to say the least! But it paid off, so we’re determined to be brave and keep pushing ourselves, and hopefully ‘Casting the Runes’ reflects that.

Tell us about your show.

The show is called ‘Casting the Runes’, and it’s a supernatural thriller, a classic ghost story with two performers, several of the most beautiful puppets we’ve made to date, and a fantastic original soundtrack. The promo for the show says ‘don’t come alone’, and there’s definitely some truth in that – it’ll set spines tingling and hearts racing, with a few good scares in there too! The script is a new adaptation written by myself and Antonia Christophers, based on the stories of M.R.James, generally considered the grandfather of British horror.

After meeting while playing Romeo and Juliet (yes, really) Antonia and I founded Box Tale Soup in 2012, and since then we’ve created 14 shows, usually involving a lot of puppetry and inventive design. We’ve worked on ‘Casting the Runes’ before, near the beginning of the company’s life, but for 2023 we thought we’d re-invent the show using everything we’ve learned in the last ten years!
After the Fringe, the show is touring the UK, and many of the autumn dates are up on our website already.

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

I will definitely be going to see Police Cops – absolutely hilarious, they’ve gone from strength to strength, and they’re one of the tickets I’ll buy without a moment’s hesitation!

Adam Lenson, who directed our show, is also doing a solo show at Summerhall, called ‘Anything That We Wanted To Be’, which you should catch. He’s a very smart and witty writer, with a passion for tech and musicals, which makes for a very entertaining, funny and moving bit of autobiography.
Stuart Goldsmith, host of the Comedian’s Comedian Podcast is an old friend of mine, and he’s doing his stand-up show ‘Spoilers’ at the Monkey Barrel. He’s a brilliant joke writer, and his shows are always beautifully crafted, but this show in particular is more than just stand-up -it’s a very honest and informative look at climate issues, without sacrificing the humour for a second.

Also, take some time to go and see some of the street performers. The Fringe attracts some of the greatest buskers and circle shows from around the world, and you can see some truly amazing stuff if you keep an eye out!

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EdFringe Talk: Sad-Vents

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“It’s probably the biggest platform for the show in the world but the financial and mental health pressures are intense.”

WHO: Eleanor Hill

WHAT: “An irreverent, ‘brilliantly original one-person show’ (WestEndBestFriend.co.uk) that makes Fleabag look like CBeebies. This tech-heavy tragicomedy uses livestreaming, projections and music to explore the hilarious and heartbreaking realities of mental health, heartbreak and trauma in the age of social media. Somewhere between Euphoria, Instagram Live and a Bo Burnham special, ‘audience members are encouraged to use their phones throughout, transforming this show into a zoo-like experience’ (TheUnderstudy.co.uk). Together we’ll scroll through reels to find what’s “real” and maybe stumble across the answer to the ultimate question: do we consume social media or does it consume us?”

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

WHEN: 14:30 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

This is the first show I’ve taken to the Fringe and I really see it as a test of mental and physical stamina as I’ll be there for a month. I’ve never done a show for 24 days in a row so I’ll see if i can survive. I’d imagine that’s more of an intense challenge than my bronze silver and gold swimming awards which were very hard thank you very much.

It was my first time as a punter last year at Ed Fringe and the buzz is amazing, jumping from show to show – everything is alive and open. It feels like you can see anything and anything goes.

As a punter you think constantly about how many shows you’ll see and if you’ll get fomo but as a producer / performer you’re constantly thinking about selling your show.

It’s probably the biggest platform for the show in the world but the financial and mental health pressures are intense. There’s a lot more to it than doing the show itself – flyering, networking and trying to keep you life as routine as possible – intense but exciting. In my mind if I can get through this with some of my sanity intact then Sad-Vents will go on!

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2022 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

Since 2022 I’ve learnt a lot about who to hire and have around me – this is a big thing. Putting in place people, places and things that are going to support and understand what I need as a human during the process. Whether that’s making sure I have an hour a day off my phone or go to a pole class or people who are on the same page as me with the marketing we need for the show.

I’ve learnt a lot about trying to actively put on and take off hats when needed – so that I can make space for each role (me as a writer or actor or producer or just a person). I’ve grown as a writer and performer – not a conscious learning but something that happens as you continue to practice and create.

There’s also a more deep and coherent plan for the show itself – making the work we do more focused and less abstract and much more exciting. Final word advice to myself – never do a show that relies on tech so heavily ever again – next show is just me on a stage nothing else.

Tell us about your show.

I wrote it and am performing it. We don’t have a company which is worth noting as it can make it a little harder to obtain funding and support. But we have had a lot of people working on it from the top, Annie McKenzie (directing), Velenzia Spearpoint (producing and marketing), Matt Powell (video design) and Constance Villemot (set design). Nearly everyone who was involved in the original R&D is still involved in some capacity in the fringe version of the show over a year later.

After two weeks of R&D we opened the show at the White Bear in Kennington and after some reworking earlier this year took it to The Vaults Festival. Next we are going to the Soho theatre whether they like it or not and then the National I’m sure that’s how it works?

SAD-VENTS is an irreverent, tragicomedy about mental health, heartbreak and trauma the age of social media. It’s sort of what would happen if you took a sad girl’s instagram and out it on stage (reminder here it is still a comedy 😂) Basically the whole show is done live streamed to my phone which is projected onto a screen behind me and onto Instagram live. So audience members (who are encouraged to use their phones) are able to watch me in real life on stage, the projection and or their phone. There’s also quite a lot of direct messaging to the audience and extra content (can I get a ohhhhh) on social media through the show. It really is a show where tech was built in from the beginning so it should feel really like you’re walking into instagram or tiktok on stage!

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

Sikisa for a bit of comedy who was my stand up tutor at the Soho Theatre, who did some stand-up at our Sad-E-Vents Fundraiser at The Bread & Roses Theatre – https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/sikisa-hear-me-out

I’ve not seen it but I will be going to see Fabulett by Michael Trauffer https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/fabulett-1933 – who broke his foot last year so I hope he doesn’t do that again! We interviewed him for our SOLO SO HIGH networking events which will be taking place online and at Edinburgh Fringe – you can find out more @solosohigh on instagram if you’re a solo show and want to get involved!

Charlotte Antley with Almost Adult who also gave us a taster of one of her new pieces at our Ed Fringe fundraiser – https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/almost-adult

I’m giving the solo shows a lot of love because I know how hard it is!

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EdFringe Talk: Frigid

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“It’s been an incredible journey so far and it’s taught me that when you put your heart and soul into a project, people will connect with it.”

WHO: Rosa Bowden

WHAT: “Niamh O’Reilly is a Frigid, meaning she’s never been kissed. And at 14, she’d want to hurry. Tonight at the local teenage disco, her friends are on a mission to change that – whether she wants to or not. Set in Dublin in 2007, it’s a coming-of-age comedy about frenemies, first times and figuring it out. Winner of the Bewley’s Little Gem Award at Dublin Fringe Festival 2022. Written and performed by Rosa Bowden with live DJ Ciarán Gallagher. ‘An amazing comedy, with heart wrenching and tender moments’ ***** (TheReviewsHub.com).”

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

WHEN: 12:40 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

It’s not! My first Edfringe experience was in 2017 when I directed BUMP&GRIND Theatre’s debut show Bump. Before that I’d never been to fringe so I remember being completely blown away by how much there was going on. There’s literally something to see at every hour of the day. Being in the city for fringe feels like you’re at the epicentre of culture – there’s weird and wonderful shows, cutting edge comedy and breath taking performances. It’s a great place to discover new artists, make connections and get inspired for your next work.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2022 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

Since 2022 I’ve learned to try relinquish the blocker that is self doubt. When Frigid was first performed at the Dublin Fringe last September, I never thought people would connect to it as much as they did. Since then we’ve sold shows, won an award and staged Frigid at 2 esteemed venues in Dublin before bagging our slot at the prestigious Underbelly Cowgate. It’s been an incredible journey so far and it’s taught me that when you put your heart and soul into a project, people will connect with it.

Tell us about your show.

Frigid is a coming-of-age comedy written and performed by me and also features on stage DJ Ciaran Gallagher. It’s a hilarious and tender tale about a 14 year old girl who’s never been kissed. Set in Dublin in 2007, it’s a nerve wrecking trip down memory lane, soundtracked to 00s teen disco bangers. The show was developed in 2020, when we presented a work-in-progress version at Scene&Heard Festival in Dublin. Then the pandemic happened so it wasn’t until 2022 that a full production was staged. We premiered at Dublin Fringe 2022 and won the prestigious Little Gem Award and was also nominated for Best New Play and Best Performer. It’s produced by Bump&Grind Theatre, who’s debut play Bump was labelled “the next big thing” at Fringe 2017. We’ve got an incredible team consisting of Joe Murphy, the producer, Hildegard Ryan (director of Fringe First 2019 winning show Mustard) the director, Sophie Fuller, associate director and SM and Shane Gill, lighting designer.

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

I’m really excited to see Sunday’s Child’s new production Chicken at Summerhall. From the genius mind’s of Eva O’Connor and Hildegard Ryan (Frigid’s director), it’s about a famous Irish actor who just so happens to be a chicken. I think it’s going to be a really unique show from this Fringe First winning Irish company. Another show from an Irish artist I’m so excited to see is Tom Moran is a Big Fat Filthy Disgusting Liar at Pleasance Courtyard – it took Dublin Fringe by storm last year and from what I hear it’s a hilarious and honest and moving! The Northern Irish company SkelpieLimmer are bringing Scaredy Fat to Pleasance Dome and apparently it’s sexy and spooky – I’m sold!

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EdFringe Talk: Hysterical

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“In 2022, we learned that when performing and touring, you have to take care of yourself and really carve out that time to rest and recharge with some reality dating shows and pizza.”

WHO: Carrie Rudzinski

WHAT: “Fierce, feminist, and f*cking funny. Women are frequently told they are too emotional – too hysterical – to be taken seriously, to be leaders of countries and companies, to be believed when pointing to their own hurt. Hysterical challenges these myths with poetry that confronts body politics, systemic sexism, and weeping uncontrollably in the supermarket. Winner of Best New Aotearoa Play and Outstanding Performance Poetry at Auckland Fringe. Internationally acclaimed poets Carrie Rudzinski and Olivia Hall deliver powerhouse performances that will leave you feeling empowered and alive.”

WHERE: Summerhall – Cairns Lecture Theatre (Venue 26) 

WHEN: 20:25 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

This is our first time at Edinburgh Fringe! We’re so excited to represent Aotearoa New Zealand on an international stage and to be part of the amazing Summerhall programming. This is such an incredible opportunity to not only share a taste of the poetry talent currently in New Zealand, but to also soak up the creativity of artists from around the world. We’re thrilled to be part of the biggest arts festival in the world, especially after multiple years where our borders were closed due to the pandemic. Lots of great development has happened with NZ artists and we’re ready to share what we’ve been up to with Edinburgh!

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2022 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

In 2022, we learned that when performing and touring, you have to take care of yourself and really carve out that time to rest and recharge with some reality dating shows and pizza. We are definitely absorbing those skills and bringing them to Ed Fringe with us! It’s also kind of a scary time in the world – it can feel really overwhelming to just balance life, work, and the news, but we’ve found that leaning into creativity and being present with our emotions and bodies really helps us re-center what’s important to us.

Tell us about your show.

We are Carrie Rudzinski and Olivia Hall and we are the writers, producers, and performers of Hysterical! We are both poets and we started collaborating seven years ago not long after Carrie moved from the United States to Aotearoa New Zealand where Olivia is from. This is our second poetry theatre show that we’ve written and we toured it across Aotearoa in 2022. After 28 shows, we won Best New Aotearoa Play at the Wellington Theatre Awards and Best Performance Poetry at Auckland Fringe Festival. Hysterical is fierce, feminist, and funny – combining 16 poems with voice messages, props, and banter with the audience to create a powerful and uplifting experience. We are planning to tour nationally across New Zealand in 2024 and eventually to Australia as well.. We’ve long had a dream of coming to Edinburgh Festival Fringe and after the pandemic changed some of those plans, we’re finally making our dreams come true by bringing Hysterical to Scotland.

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

We can’t get over how many amazing shows are coming to Edinburgh Fringe and are ready to fangirl for all the other performers at Summerhall this year. Playing Latinx is on at Summerhall just before our show and we love a performer who can combine and blend talents. Grief Lightning is on right after our show, coming all the way from Australia and unpacking conspiracy theories on Grease? Sign us up. Help Yourself with Jess and Victoria sounds like the seminar we’ve been waiting for (we can’t stop crying and need help). Jade Anouka is bringing poetry theatre in the shape of HEART only for three nights to the Festival and we want to be front row. And we have to send people to see our fellow New Zealanders Foster Group Dance’s show Double Goer at Assembly – they are incredible – do not miss them!

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EdFringe Talk: Twenty People A Minute

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“So many lessons learned! I think the biggest one is not to be scared of putting new work out there.”

WHO: Tom Mullins

WHAT: “Set not too far in the future, Twenty People a Minute follows four refugees of tomorrow on a perilous journey across the earth. Over one hour we meet their dangers and the everyday angels who keep them alive. Twenty People A Minute is a play exploring the impact of global social, political, and environmental crisis on the individual, exploring what it could be like if you were forced to leave your home.”

WHERE: theSpace on the Mile – Space 3 (Venue 39) 

WHEN: 12:50 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

I am Edinburgh born and bred, and Fringe is without a doubt the most special time of the year in our beautiful capital city. I think Edinburgh’s history and culture is what truly defines The Fringe as the most epic arts festival in the world, not just the largest. Having visited other Fringe festivals across the UK, none have an atmosphere as electric as The Edinburgh Fringe.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2022 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

So many lessons learned! I think the biggest one is not to be scared of putting new work out there. It can be incredibly daunting, especially with a political or hard-hitting piece, but nothing ventured nothing gained! The Edinburgh Fringe is the safest space to explore and present new theatre to open and supportive audiences.

Tell us about your show.

We are Arthur & Redpath productions, a creative partnership based in Scotland aiming to produce unique works of theatre and a cultural space for all voices. We formed after several years in creative collaboration, and launched in the summer 2022 with our premiere production of ‘You Are Here: A Musical Revue.’

Our dear collaborator Samantha Robinson, recent winner of The Royals Shakespeare’s 37 Plays Project, has written our latest venture ‘Twenty People A Minute’, an astonishing new political drama that shines a light on the impending future of the refugee crisis. It’s beautiful, poetic, confronting, emotive, and shockingly urgent, and we really hope that audiences from all backgrounds and political perspectives come and experience the message of hope that we’re sharing.

We have been developing this piece with Samantha, and four exceptionally talented actors for the last 12 months, and we can’t wait to share it with Fringe audiences and see what’s next for this beautiful production.

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

For Musical Theatre, we can’t wait to see Captivate Theatre’s new production of ‘Hunchback of Notre Dame’. It’s going to be truly epic.

For something more hard-hitting and political, we’d highly recommend our good friends at Viewpoint Theatre Company and their new verbatim piece called ‘Jane / Norma’, a play about the Roe vs. Wade case in the US. It’s brilliant. And make sure to check out Light The Match Productions’ ‘PRICK’, an exciting new piece of theatre that tells the story of The Scottish witch trials.

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EdFringe Talk: I’ve Got Some Things To Get Off My Chest

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2023 by

“There’s really nowhere else in the world I’d be happy to stand in the rain for hours handing out flyers.”

WHO: Constance Eldon-McCaig

WHAT: “According to Google, Eva’s boobs weigh the same as: two and a half bottles of tequila; two bricks; or the average newborn baby. Quite a weight on your back and finding bras off the rack for a rack that size is near impossible. Despite being an ideal candidate, misogynistic medical standards leave Eva feeling like a tit for asking for a boob reduction – will the whole thing be a bust? This one-woman, two-mega-boobed comedy explores the failings of women’s healthcare – underfunded, under researched and, much like Eva’s boobs, under-supported.”

WHERE: Gilded Balloon Teviot – Turret (Venue 14) 

WHEN: 13:40 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

I’ve been lucky enough to attend the Edinburgh Fringe and walk the Royal Mile multiple times before now. In 2016 I attended as a stage manager for Musical Shot Heard Around The World, in 2019 I was co-writer and co-director for Salmon and now, in ‘23 I am back in the cultural hub of creative exploration with comedy, I’ve Got Some Things To Get Off My Chest, I could not be happier to be back! Fringe is such a special place for me, it’s where my love for performing arts really blossomed, a place to watch so many different forms of theatre, where everyone is welcome. There’s really nowhere else in the world I’d be happy to stand in the rain for hours handing out flyers.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2022 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

To take things slow and enjoy the ride. With over 3000 shows at the fringe it’s easy to get caught up in the madness and forget what an incredible experience it is to be surrounded by so many talented people, doing extraordinary things.

This is something I’ve not just brought into my fringe experience but also my life in general!

Tell us about your show.

I’ve Got Some Things To Get Off My Chest is written and performed by my glorious partner in all things creative Eva Lily. We worked together to develop the original script and I directed our WIP preview at the Golden Goose Theatre in London earlier this year. The play is a comedic one woman show that follows the real life journey she undertook trying to apply for a breast reduction through the NHS. It’s a deep dive into the medical misogyny that permeates throughout female healthcare, examining how under-funded and under-researched healthcare is for women and other marginalised communities. There’s social commentary alongside lots of laughs and even more boobs.

For Edinburgh, the show is produced by Jamie Wilson Productions and Eve and Sea Productions, it is directed by Marieke Audsley supported by resident director & dramaturg – me(!), it really is the product of collaboration, sharing stories and finding light in darker places of the female experience.

We previewed at The HopeMill in Manchester in July and we’re hoping to bring the full version of the show back to London later in the year.

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

I’m really excited for F-Bomb’s The Beatles Were a Boyband which you can catch at the Gilded Balloon Patter Hoose, they’re a fantastic feminist theatre company who’ve won the Scotsman Fringe First Award and the Sit Up Award for social impact. This year they’ve created the FemiFringe guide, which is a programme of work led by women & people of marginalised genders, which is amazing! Also, Hooked: Mr Sister from Holly and Brooke are Hooked is a must see, they perform side splitting sketch comedy. You can see them at Just the Tonic Just Up The Stairs.

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EdFringe Talk: A Funeral for My Friend Who Is Still Alive

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“I realize bulling itself is not the most horrifying, but I did not recognize I was suffering, I was in pain.”

WHO: Kasen Tsui

WHAT: “‘Kasen Tsui’s work is not only a performance, but the embodiment of social memory and the spirit of humanity’ (Kuh Fei, the Hong Kong Theatre Libre). This is a brand-new dark comedy about farewell. One evening, Kasen decides to host a funeral in her tiny apartment for her long-lost friend who is still very much alive. So, she prepares a eulogy to celebrate this friend’s life. This theatre play is speaking to those who share the same stories of being forced to leave their homeland, striving for survival, freedom and hope.”

WHERE: theSpace @ Niddry St – Studio (Venue 9) 

WHEN: 10:00 (46 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

Yes, this is my first time to Edinburgh. My mentor Cathy, who is also the producer and director of the show, told me Edfringe is a magical place that you got to showcase who you really are as an artist, and got to meet a lot of people who are open minded with all kinds of idea. This festival is so great that it offers platform for young artist like me to develop new works, and at the same time, a space to connect with artists and producers from all over the world. The whole city is celebrating art which makes it so unique and makes artists feel like home. Cathy had her debut in Edfringe 10 years ago, and now she brought me here to Edfringe as a director and producer. I hope I can do the same to other young artist 10 years later.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2022 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

Love yourself before you can love someone else. I realize bulling itself is not the most horrifying, but I did not recognize I was suffering, I was in pain. Because I think that’s normal, and I thought compromising is the way to handle, but it is not. To respect myself, is to love myself. And if I want to be able to trust and to love again, I have to know that I am worthy as well.

Tell us about your show.

Cathy and I wrote together, Cathy is the director and producer. We come together, because I shared a story with Cathy about me losing a friend from social movement in Hong Kong. Cathy encouraged me to put a show about my story, how my emotion changes during these few years. She asked me one question, “If you have one last chance, what are you going to say to your friend?” Then we started to create this show. Edfinge will be the world premier of this show, and hopefully we will take this show to Australia and North America after Edfringe.

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

Please do support other shows in theSpaceUK, they have given us huge support to put a show in Edinburgh. Cathy always said she had the best experience when performing in theSpaceUK and they have so brought so many great shows to Edfringe. I am very interested to see Beehavioural Problems: Something Something Autism the SpaceUK, and Ageless in Dance Base. Also there are also many shows from Hong Kong will be performed in Edfringe like No Dragon No Lion.

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