Category Archives: EdFestivals 2024

EdFringe Talk: Villains: A Dizney in Drag Parody

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

image of event

“When we came over last year, we felt like we were in a Hogwarts-inspired fairytale. We’d all just quit our jobs to take the show on the road and we were filled with fear, excitement, anticipation, and gratitude.”

WHO: Jae West

WHAT: “Mirror, mirror, on the wall, who is the evilest of them all? Well come find out for yourself in The Hairy Godmothers’ new sinful sequel. What could be more devilishly delicious and tantalisingly twisted than a vivacious vaudeville of villains in drag? Come peer into this cave of wonders and find a treasure trove of misunderstood “outcasts” of society and the evils that shape the world. Featuring the hottest and darkest miscreants, scoundrels, reprobates this side of the elephant graveyard. ‘A hysterical, well-written show’ ***** (StageWhispers.com.au).”

WHERE: Assembly George Square – Gordon Aikman Theatre (Venue 8) 

WHEN: 22:35 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

No, this is the second time our group has come to Edinburgh, we’ve learned a lot since the first year! When we came over last year, we felt like we were in a Hogwarts-inspired fairytale. We’d all just quit our jobs to take the show on the road and we were filled with fear, excitement, anticipation, and gratitude. Some of the performers came from non-traditional performance backgrounds e.g. lawyers, engineers, and venue managers, so taking a leap of faith out of the 9 am-5 pm working day felt huge. We’ve been slowly finding our groove over the last 1.5 years, so we’re excited to come back to Edinburgh with a little more knowledge of how it all works. There’s still a lot to learn, especially around getting your name out there, so one step at a time! Edinburgh Fringe is a melting pot of creatives, producers, directors, tech wiz’s and so much more, so getting out there and meeting new people is what is most exciting. You never know who you’re going to meet, it’s a fun mystery.

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

JOMO, the joy of missing out!! Edinburgh is a playground of opportunities, as most of the Fringe circuit is. Learning to cultivate the ability to say no, allows a deeper ability to find your yes. It’s all about balance. Trust when the body is tired, listen to it, and get some rest so you can show up wholeheartedly the next day. There were many nights out where I’d just be staring blankly out into the ether because I was tired! However, the nights that you feel vibrant, excited, and ‘on’, they are the nights where fun synchronicities and fun opportunities arise. Follow the magic!

Tell us about your show.

We’re a group of Australian friends who got together 5 years ago to write a fun fringe show. We had no idea at that point that it was going to take us around the world. The concept for Dizney in Drag: Once Upon a Parody came together after reflecting on the influence of fairytales and childhood movies on our belief systems and ideals. The theme that kept coming up strongly was the narrative of a hero trying to find their ‘one true love’. We wanted to play with that idea and see what was possible when we deconstructed the predictable endings to stories. I won’t spoil the messaging of the show, you’ll have to come see it for yourself, but let’s just say it’s not a predictable ending.

We’re bringing our brand-new show VILLAINS: A Dizney in Drag Parody as well! This show explores the devilish delights of evil characters and how they can be misunderstood. You follow a main Villain on their quest to be the evilest villain of them all. They learn interesting and insightful things along the way which has them reflect on power, purpose, and passion in a whole new light. Of course, The Hairy Godmother is always there to guide them along and have a beer!

We (The Hairy Godmothers) all self-produce our shows. It’s a big job but we’ve learned a lot through the process. The acting side of things is the smallest portion of what we do now, there’s a lot of work behind the scenes. Thankfully we all get along with each other and support one another in learning new skills or consolidating old ones. We’re a well-oiled machine now!

Being away from home from Brighton Fringe (May) to the end of Edinburgh Fringe (end of August) gets us a little homesick. So, it’s back to Australia for us after the season, maybe with a cheeky little retreat and relaxation time in Europe on the way back.

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

Garry Starr: Classic Penguins – not only is he a fellow Aussie but he’s extremely talented and funny. We were able to help out with a part of the show in Brighton and loved it! We’ve seen a number of his shows and can’t get enough. If you want a guaranteed laugh with clever writing, see the show!

MESSY FRIENDS – another Perth drag group with so much passion, heart and colour. They are top notch drag, the dancing is incredible and the drive and purpose behind the show really does shine through. They recently won best cabaret at Adelaide Fringe, and it was very well deserved. If you want to see an impeccable show with feelings and fabulous outfits, this is the show for you.

LIKE WHAT YOU JUST READ? FOLLOW US ON TWITTER! OR SIGN UP TO OUR MAILING LIST!

INTERESTED IN BEING INTERVIEWED TOO? CLICK HERE!

EdFringe Talk: Ketch Sketch

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

image of event

“I had no idea that I would return to Edinburgh again and again.”

WHO: Ketch

WHAT: “Japan’s best silent comedian is back! And you’re invited to his pet Max’s birthday party… After 15 years at the Fringe with the award-winning duo Gamarjobat, Ketch returns with his explosive new solo comedy show. He needs your help to throw the best birthday party ever, jam-packed full of juggling, clowning, music, magic and mime. Don’t miss this heartwarming and hilarious hour of slick, silent and silly slapstick for all ages.”

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

WHEN: 16:00 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

Yes, this is my first time bringing a full solo show, but I’ve been coming to Edinburgh for many years, both as part of Gamarjobat(Japanese silent comedy duo) and privately.

Summer In 1992, while I was a student in London, I first visited Edinburgh. I travelled around England, Ireland, Wales and Scotland on my Honda 70cc motorbike. It was freezing the whole time. At that time, I had no idea that I would return to Edinburgh again and again.

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

When I was younger I never liked teaching, I preferred to do shows when I had the time to teach. I now realize that I enjoy teaching more than I did before. Especially after giving a 30-hour physical comedy workshop in Italy in May, I thought, “I want to do it again! Someone organize one for me!” Because up until then, I had only done 7-hour workshops and the results were limited.

Tell us about your show.

I created this show in Fukuoka, Japan during the COVID-19 period in 2021. Since then, Ketch Sketch has toured nine cities in Japan, with five more due to be shown in October.

At the beginning, there were a lot of “COVID-19 gags” that worked, but now they’ve mostly disappeared.

A Japanese entertainment company IMPRESARIO is presenting my show. I met the boss of IMPRESARIO, when he was 20 years old. Now he has his own company and is doing well.

I met my co-producer in Melbourne, Australia in 2020. She was my Airbnb host, but she was also a physical theatre producer!! What a coincidence!

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

Trygve Wakenshaw. My co-producer introduces us online. I’ve only seen his show on video, but it was amazing! I’ll definitely watch his show. (I just texted him and found out that he doesn’t do twitter.)

Sometimes I dream of doing a show like his. No words, no props, no costume changes, no skill showing-off, just me, my body and the audience’s imagination. But then I think oh no! I can’t do it. It’s too scary for me! And I can’t help showing off my skills!

Paul Currie. I’ve seen his last year’s show and street show. They are both silly and funny! Especially last year’s show was non-verbal, so I understood everything. I do both theatre and street show just like him. They are two very different things but he does both really well.

LIKE WHAT YOU JUST READ? FOLLOW US ON TWITTER! OR SIGN UP TO OUR MAILING LIST!

INTERESTED IN BEING INTERVIEWED TOO? CLICK HERE!

EdFringe Talk: Naomi Grossman: American Whore Story

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

image of event

“They say “you can never go home again,” but I refuse to believe that’s true, and am anxious to prove that axiom wrong.”

WHO: Naomi Grossman

WHAT: “Emmy-nominated actress, Naomi Grossman made a name for herself as Pepper on American Horror Story, the fan-favourite and first crossover character. This side-splitting one-woman show shares her darkly fabulous and profoundly revealing behind-the-scenes experiences leading up to AHS and its afterglow. Winner of the BroadwayWorld Award for Best Solo Production, this love letter to AHS fans chronicles Naomi’s history of hustling, from her odd jobs to her even odder love life. Off-Broadway critics tout, ‘This is a one-of-a-kind performance from a one-of-a-kind person. If HBO isn’t calling, they should be… not to be missed’ (EljNYC.com).”

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

WHEN: 21:00 (75 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

No, I brought my last show, “Carnival Knowledge” there back in 2010. That experience will forever go down as one of my all-time career highlights. Because, it was just me. I didn’t have big, Hollywood machine with a multi-million dollar payroll behind me. Every laugh, clap, accolade, or rave I could take personal responsiblity for (with thanks to my director, Richard Embardo, supporting me from afar). It was also at a time in my life when I needed that validation. I had yet to experience any significant, commercial success in my career thus far, so surviving those 25 consecutive nights felt not only personally/professionally/artistically validating, but like a real wake-up call and reminder that THIS is what I needed to be doing with my life! I wept when my show closed, and it was time to return home. If that’s an indicator, then I don’t know what is!

Everything’s special about Edfringe! Aside from the personal connection I’ve just described, I found it incredibly inspiring to see what other artists are doing there. I’ve done other fringes, from NYC to Denver, and there’s simply NOTHING in the world like Edfringe. Those other cities all go about their business… whereas Edinburgh triples in size, with theatre happening everywhere from church basements to brothel attics (or so I imagine). So that’s what’s special about it: the whole world coming together in one place to perform, produce, support, and celebrate theatre.

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

I assume you mean since 2010, when I was there last? If so, EVERYTHING. My life has taken a complete turn since I was there last… I’m eager to experience it again through this new lens, knowing what I know now, as an older, wiser, more seasoned producer and performer. They say “you can never go home again,” but I refuse to believe that’s true, and am anxious to prove that axiom wrong.

Tell us about your show.

“American Whore Story” is the third in my trilogy of autobiographical solo shows. A love letter to “American Horror Story” fans, it chronicles my history of hustling– from the odd jobs I’ve held, to my even odder love life. Produced by all-Northwestern University alumni, specifically AWS Entertainment Group (comprised of me, Broadway-bound producer, Kate Atkinson, and veteran documentary filmmaker, Sarah Anthony) in collaboration with Cracked Pepper Productions (Umbrella Pictures’ Robert Jarosinski), AWS first debuted in Los Angeles, then went on to have successful runs Off-Broadway in New York, as well as Boston, Denver, and Taos, New Mexico. The plan after Edfringe is to produce it as a comedy special for streamers. No better way to prep for that than 25 consecutive nights in Edinburgh!

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

Gosh, I don’t know yet! I’m looking forward to arriving at Auld Reekie and finding out! I do know of a dear comedian-friend, Torrance Hill, who’s doing his stand-up, “Cool Beans Comedy,” as well as a friend of a friend here in Los Angeles, Mitch Hara, whose show, “Mutant Olive 2.0” has come highly recommended. But otherwise, I can’t wait to get there, hear the buzz, and just see where my curiosity takes me! Last time, I happened upon a “Naked Brunch,” where everyone– performers, technical crew, waitstaff, ticket-takers, even the audience– was naked. I watched Jennifer Coolidge eat a dozen donuts while talking about her sex-life (turns out we’re eskimo sisters– who knew?!). I saw a solo show by a life drawing model, who encouraged us to draw him as he regaled us with stories in the nude. I watched Bryony Kimmings actually collect audience members’ pubic hair in her one-woman show, “Sex Idiot,” all about chlamydia. So I’m sure there’ll be a whole new array of crazy, new experiences in store!

LIKE WHAT YOU JUST READ? FOLLOW US ON TWITTER! OR SIGN UP TO OUR MAILING LIST!

INTERESTED IN BEING INTERVIEWED TOO? CLICK HERE!

EdFringe Talk: Elizabeth I: In Her Own Words

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

image of event

“In 2023, I woman a approached scolded me for having flyers at all (it’s true that they are horrible for our environment), at which point, I told her I didn’t plan on giving it to her, it was merely a visual aid and could I please tell her about our show. She came and loved it!”

WHO: Penny Cole

WHAT: “Intrigue. Betrayal. Unconsummated love. Danger. Step into the world of Elizabeth I as she navigates the stormy waters of late 16th-century England. Ascending the English throne in a vibrant but turbulent time she was a brilliant and canny stateswoman, politician and ruler whose own letters provide a captivating peek into her inner thoughts, desires, heartaches, fears, doubts and joys. Intertwined with speeches from the plays of Shakespeare, the letters of the Virgin Queen paint a unique portrait of this remarkable and complex woman.”

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

WHEN: 13:55 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

This is not my first time to Edinburgh. I started bringing students from the University of Colorado in 2001 and have since attended multiple fringe festivals over the years as producer, director and audience member. In 2019 I formed Flying Solo! Presents to promote and support new American work and emerging American artists on the international stage, i.e. Edinburgh, although we also perform in Denver (Colorado is home) and New York. Edfringe is the most inspiring, exciting, mind expanding experience I have ever had, allowing me to learn so much about theatre, performance, and humans. It can also, at times be a soul sucking experience when you are playing to an audience of one, with no reviewers in sight and no one will take your flyer. Those are the times you find out just how resilient you are and how to make a great show for all audiences, no matter the size. As a small company the community we build throughout fringe is truly special. I love talking to other performers and companies about their shows and going to see them. I so appreciate how many of us support each other in a multitude of ways. Every year, I make new friends, have my mind blown by new work, and appreciate our art more and more.

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

Hoo boy! So many lessons over the years, some still to be integrated! I learned in 2019 I need the help of a publicist! I can write press releases but the daunting task of sending out 100s of them and following up is not my strong suit, and somehow I become tongue tied when pitching my show to reviewers. In 2020 and 2021 I learned how to produce virtual shows, prefer not to do that again any time soon, I live for the live audience interaction. In 2022 I learned what I call focused flyering. Instead of dealing out our flyers like a deck of cards, I engage in conversation, sometimes lengthy talks, with fringe goers from across the globe. I don’t give out a flyer unless someone is honestly interested in us. In 2023, I woman a approached scolded me for having flyers at all (it’s true that they are horrible for our environment), at which point, I told her I didn’t plan on giving it to her, it was merely a visual aid and could I please tell her about our show. She came and loved it! This year I am working on creating more connections with other companies pre-fringe and committing to cross-promoting in unique ways.

Tell us about your show.

Our show is about the Tudor Queen of England who cut off Mary Queen of Scots head, Elizabeth I. Can’t wait to have a Scottish audience! Elizabeth never traveled to Scotland during her lifetime but she had a tremendous influence on the governance of Scotland and the ultimate creation of the United Kingdom. The text, created by Elizabethan scholar, Carole Levin and performer, Tammy Meneghini, is taken directly from Elizabeth I’s letters, hence “In Her Own Words”, as well as from letters from Mary Stuart, Robert Dudley, and the Spanish Ambassador. Elizabeth was a great fan of Shakespeare so many speeches from his plays are interwoven into the text as well. It is a unique window into the Elizabeth the woman as well as the Queen that I think will surprise you. The script was originally created to celebrate a traveling exhibit of the first Folio. The play toured in 2019 as a two-hander. It has been revised as a solo show which previewed at the Denver Fringe this June and after further revisions will preview for 2 performances in New York before we land in Edinburgh. While in Edinburgh we are going to begin the process of creating a companion piece about Mary Queen of Scots, to ultimately play in rep with Elizabeth I in the future.

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

So many!! I have really eclectic tastes and will be seeing dance, music, and circus as well as theatre. Here are just a few highlights:

Recent Cutbacks is producing Hold Onto Your Butts, a shot by shot parody of Jurassic Park, the movie, performed in 60 minutes by two actors and a Foley artist. I had the pleasure of seeing the company in NY years ago and thought then their work was a perfect fit with Edfringe. This is their first year in Edinburgh and you’ll love them, they are so talented and funny!

Square Product Theatre based in Boulder, Colorado is also coming to the fringe for the first time. Their show, Things We Will Miss, is a personal meditation on the climate crisis. Their story telling is non-linear, driven by light, sound, and images creating a powerful and visceral experience. Their work is lyrical, challenging, and thought-provoking. The climate crisis impacts all of us and we must pay attention.

I can’t wait to see June Carter Cash, The Woman, Her Music and Me, produced by Grid Iron (one of my all time favorite companies) and the National Theatre of Scotland. The quality of the work these two companies have produced over the years means I have rarely been disappointed in anything I’ve seen. I also think there are some parallels to be found between Elizabeth and June in that they were daughters of ultra famous fathers who followed in their Dad’s footsteps to emerge as successful leaders/musicians in their own rights.

Banned the Musical by April Alsup Productions, another Colorado based company is a new musical that follows a group of misfits as prepare a new production all the while navigating the divisive narrative around gender norms. Timely topic, new music, and a committed company will make this a must see. I missed their show last year as they performed at the same time we did but this year you’ll see me in their audience at last.

Come and find me in front of theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall, everyday but Sundays, at 1:00 pm (13:00) and tell me about your show, I’d love to see it, seriously!

LIKE WHAT YOU JUST READ? FOLLOW US ON TWITTER! OR SIGN UP TO OUR MAILING LIST!

INTERESTED IN BEING INTERVIEWED TOO? CLICK HERE!

EdFringe Talk: Broken Planet: The Absurd Cabaret of Apocalyptic Proportions

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

image of event

“I’ve been incredibly fortunate to tour the world with the Blue Man Group.”

WHO: Callum Grant

WHAT: “A subversive live experience developed by artists from around the globe. Despite ever-evolving digital connection our world is more divided than ever. Broken Planet is here to reconnect us, to put the humility back into humanity, to provide the space for rediscovering the good in everyone and everything around us. Embrace imperfections with the interactive and uplifting power of silly. Join Clown God and an array of wonderfully weird guests for this unique celebration blending comedy, circus, indie music and the ridiculous… before it’s too late. Come save the world!”

WHERE: C ARTS | C venues | C aquila – studio (Venue 21) 

WHEN: 18:50 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

Ever since I was young, Edinburgh’s beauty, character, and views have charmed me. Climbing Arthur’s Seat, scraping my back on the flumes at the Commonwealth Pool, singing after hours at the Royal Oak pub, and the lump in my throat I still get hearing the tale of Greyfriars Bobby.

In 2005, I studied contemporary theatre at the RSC and took part in a student performance art show at Fringe, which was an absolute hoot!

Since then, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to tour the world with the Blue Man Group.

Now, I’m setting foot back on stage in my homeland for the first time since those early days.
I’ve developed an original show, “Broken Planet,” and there’s no better way to bring it kicking and screaming into existence than at the Edinburgh Fringe – the ultimate performing arts event.

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

I’ve learned so much in the past year. This is our first Fringe, and developing and producing a show has felt like a university course all its own. From editing material based on audience engagement to refining pieces down to their essence while keeping the show on track, it’s been an intense learning time.

Not to mention all the extra-curricular tasks: graphic design, online marketing, creating budgets, navigating group dynamics, rewiring pedal boards, and even forcing myself to do stand-up comedy for the first time- with mixed results.

It doesn’t stop, but it’s mostly fun.

One crucial lesson I’ve learned is the importance of people.

The community, the team, and the group are the most important aspects of this process. Their support, collaboration, and shared passion make all the difference.

Oh, and never try to eat a pizza in front of people who don’t have their own pizza!

Tell us about your show.

“Broken Planet” is an absurd cabaret-style variety show featuring hilarious, weird characters, unique live-looping indie music, and inflatable dinosaurs.

It strives to get people talking again, to find common ground, and to laugh at our differences.
I’ve always been baffled by our tribalism—ever since I switched from skiing to snowboarding and suddenly found myself at odds with skiing friends. It’s bananas how we can become so divided over the smallest things, like whether pineapple belongs on pizza or if cats are better than dogs.

We seem to live in a world where people are quick to pick sides and slow to understand each other, highlighting our growing inability to empathise with other ways of thinking.

This is why I think its important to get over our differences, by laughing at our quirks and celebrating our shared humanity. That’s what we’re trying to do with “Broken Planet.”

The concept and much of the writing came from me, but this has been a very collaborative process. Starting as a tiny apartment show and growing into larger venues around Chicago, we’ve had amazing artists volunteer and join along the way, developing fresh acts like Srg. Lt. Love Doctor, Mothman, the Well Balanced Fathers and Nerf Karaoke.

We are super excited to be partnering with ‘Rhymes With Purple’ for our production here in Edinburgh, and we hope to tour festivals and beyond after our Fringe run.

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

Rat Mass. This is a must see, I have been incredibly lucky to witness the growth and evolution of Rat Mass as its grown in Chicago. It is a hilarious, beautiful subversive show about rats and humans, and rats.Go join the cult!

Also Tweedy’s Massive Circus is one I can’t wait to catch, I’ve caught snippets of Tweedy online and I simply cannot wait to giggle in person finally!

LIKE WHAT YOU JUST READ? FOLLOW US ON TWITTER! OR SIGN UP TO OUR MAILING LIST!

INTERESTED IN BEING INTERVIEWED TOO? CLICK HERE!

EdFringe Talk: Bad Clowns: HOSTAGE

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

image of event

“There’s no better feeling than when the streets are packed with lovely potential audience members and a rotating cast of different acapella groups.”

WHO: The Bad Clowns

WHAT: “It is the opening night of the Fringe theatre show The Worrisome Troubles of Timothy Potts. However, the playwright has escaped from prison to see his “masterpiece”. He takes control of the show and audience! Are you ready to be taken HOSTAGE? ‘Slick, briskly paced and wonderfully anarchic production’ ***** (LondonTheatre1.com). ‘Witty and entertaining’ ***** (WestEndBestFriend.co.uk). ‘Fast-paced hour of idiotic nonsense’ **** (Daily Express). ‘Takes high-concept comedy to new and perilous heights’ **** (BroadwayBaby.com). ‘Fast-paced hour of delectable silliness’ **** (ThreeWeeks).”

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

WHEN: 19:00 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

Unfortunately not. This is our fifth time at the EdFringe, but like all professional comedians we don’t count the first three. We can’t wait to return to the absolute chaos that is the EdFringe. There’s no better feeling than when the streets are packed with lovely potential audience members and a rotating cast of different acapella groups.

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

Every time we look at the mirror (and yes, we do that collectively as a group of 3), we realise how poorly we are aging. But that’s okay, because we all looked amazing to begin with.

Tell us about your show.

The show was actually written by three up and coming playwrights. 33.3% of the credit must go to the acclaimed Sam Walls. Another third must go to the wonderful John Bond. And finally, 3/10 of the glory must lie at the feet of the controversial Christian Dart. Coincidentally, they are the 3 members of the Bad Clowns. During the show, audience members will experience a shoddy, poorly put together theatre play. But fear not! The show quickly gets taken over by a madman with a gun – and he also takes over the audience!

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

We are actually bringing two further shows to the Fringe this year – Bad Clowns and Good Friends (a comedy compilation every Friday and Saturday) and Christian Dart: Bigger than the Christmas Turkey (the solo show of one of the lads – it’s 20 minutes after us!). But we’d also like to plug the wonderful Will Sebag with Will of the People, Katie Pritchard with I Kiss the Music, and Sam Dodgshon with Memory is Full. They’re all hilarious and cool.

LIKE WHAT YOU JUST READ? FOLLOW US ON TWITTER! OR SIGN UP TO OUR MAILING LIST!

INTERESTED IN BEING INTERVIEWED TOO? CLICK HERE!

EdFringe Talk: Love’s Concordia Bar

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

image of event

“I can’t don’t think I can express in words how excited I am!!! I am obsessed with theatre, and this is THE event for the theatre-obsessed.”

WHO: Edoardo Tesio

WHAT: “Imagine a bar owned by Love itself. Only people who are in love are allowed in. A couple of young lovers enter the bar. After sultry musical and dance performances, and after meeting many of the guests embodying different types of love, the lovers realise that once someone enters the bar – once someone falls in love – it is hard to get out of it because romantic love can become addictive. Sultry performances. Obsession. Purity. Sex. Are you ready to enter Love’s Concordia Bar?”

WHERE: C ARTS | C venues | C aquila – studio (Venue 117) 

WHEN: VARIES (90 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

Yes, it is! It’s the first time for all of us in the theater company, Theater Company della Luna— though we have been planning this adventure for over a year now. I mean, Fringe is such a huge opportunity, not just to share work, but to see it. It’s something that I personally have always wanted to do, and I am beyond thrilled to finally make it happen. And it took a lot of planning— not only the fundraising part, but the convincing people that this crazy idea would be worth it! Our theater company came together on its own, we were just a few friends meeting at NYU who all came from different countries across the world. I mean, I’m from Italy, one of us is from Dubai, one of us is from Japan… everyone from the United States is from somewhere different. And we all have different things we specialize in, which is what I think makes us so strong as a group— but the fact that we are all international always makes the logistical part of what we do a challenge. Coordinating everything amongst ourselves, and then getting our incredible actors on board was no small feat, but after a little over a year of planning, it’s finally happening!!! And honestly, I can’t don’t think I can express in words how excited I am!!! I am obsessed with theatre, and this is THE event for the theatre-obsessed.

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

2023 was a year full of ups and downs, but I think the biggest thing I personally have been thinking about recently is the necessity of saying “yes” to yourself. In this industry, in the arts, It can be so easy to feel discouraged at times, or wonder, “Will my ideas work? Can these huge projects I am envisioning I have actually be as big as I want them to be?” But the answer is yes, of course, if only you say “yes” to yourself, without worrying too much about the criticisms of others. Making art is supposed to be fun, and at the end of the day, nobody knows your artistic vision better than you do. And some of the best ideas come from taking risks. I mean, 9 times out of 10, whenever I, or someone else on the team was faced with a risky idea- an idea that we were scared might be “too silly” or “too sexy” “too cringe” or “too much”— the risky thing has been the thing the audience liked most, and the thing we had the most fun doing! I mean, as much as we might want to, we artists can’t read the minds of the audience— so even though it’s hard sometimes, we HAVE to stand strong, and have minds of our own. So many of the jokes in “Love’s Concordia Bar” are just things that we personally thought were funny, or interesting… if they resonated with us, maybe they’ll resonate with others. I am so proud of the work I am doing currently, following my gut and my imagination…. and I know that this is just the beginning, and there is so much more incredible work to come!

Tell us about your show.

Our show is called Love’s Concordia Bar. I co-wrote and produced it with Marjorie Murillo, and the all-original pop soundtrack was written by Olivia Amicangioli. Costumes by Tomoka Takahashi, choreography by Bridget Spencer (that’s Theater Company Della Luna!) This version of the show is debuting for the very first time at Fringe, but we did workshop a different version of this same show- a draft of the same concept, a bar owned by Love Itself- in New York City in 2022. Since then, we have entirely re-written the script, and some of the music has been re-imagined, but the idea is the same: once you fall in Love, it’s not easy to get out of it. I think it’s something a lot of people can relate to, and Love as a broader topic is something everyone has to engage with, one way or another. Whatever your personal relationship to Love, it’s not really something you can escape, societally. So we had people write letters about what Love meant to them, and looked into different names for all different kinds of Love, and from that, made up these insane larger-than-life characters, who we’ve all since become very emotionally attached to. Because now they’re more than concepts, they’ve become complicated people, too… people are complicated!! That’s why we are trying to produce this show on a larger scale, to be honest: because it’s not just a show, it’s a conversation. A very fun, flashy, sexy and burlesque-y conversation!!! We want to make you think, AND we want to make you dance.

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

With this being our first Fringe, I’ll admit I am not as familiar with the other people putting on shows this year as I would like to be— but there are a few shows I can definitely, confidently recommend, including some of my former classmates from NYU Tisch School of the Arts, whose work I personally cannot wait to see!

Number one is Gianna Milici’s musical comedy “Pretty Delusional”, as well as Catrin Ody’s “Sent From My iPhone”, which are both going up at @theSpaceUK . Gianna and Catrin are both incredible artists, and I promise you would be doing yourself a disservice by skipping out on catching their work.

As well, I would recommend the “Non-Player Character: Live Virtual Reality Musical” by Brendan Bradley, Maurice Soque Jr, and Michael Morran. It’s an interactive show, combining virtual reality with theater, which I think is such a cool concept! So many people have been innovating the possibilities of theater lately, and I am always in awe of anyone who finds new ways to stretch its limits.

But the show I am looking forward to most right now though is Tit Swingers by Le Gasp! Productions. We just saw one of Le Gasp’s other shows, Julie The Musical in London, and it was fantastic. Such amazing musicians, hilarious comedy, and such an interesting story!!! If you don’t know who Julie d’Aubigny, it’s worth looking into! I can only imagine what other great stories they have to tell. But mostly, I can’t wait to discover brand new shows and artists I haven’t heard of before. There are so many! It’s going to be a dream come true.

LIKE WHAT YOU JUST READ? FOLLOW US ON TWITTER! OR SIGN UP TO OUR MAILING LIST!

INTERESTED IN BEING INTERVIEWED TOO? CLICK HERE!

EdFringe Talk: Thunderstruck

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

image of event

“It still makes me nervous going against some of the biggest theatre companies in the world but the Fringe has that wonderful knack of finding those gems that don’t necessarily have this biggest budgets.”

WHO: David Colvin

WHAT: “The Herald Angel Award-winning smash hit of modern Scottish theatre returns to the Fringe for a fifth successive year. The tragic, comic and epic tale of the greatest bagpiper that ever lived, a Pitlochry bin man who rocked tradition, flew beyond the summit of his art and changed Scottish music forever. Whatever notions you have of bagpipes, leave them at the door. ‘A stunning, staggering piece of modern Scottish folk theatre’ ***** (BritishTheatreGuide.info). ‘Elucidating, charming and rip-roaringly inspirational’ ***** (TheQR.co.uk).”

WHERE: Scottish Storytelling Centre – Netherbow Theatre (Venue 30) 

WHEN: 18:45 (80 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

This will be my 13th Edinburgh Fringe and Thunderstruck’s 5th successive Edinburgh Fringe. In previous years I’ve performed in the Fringe with my university drama group, The National Theatre of Scotland, an Ozzy Singing group, a Welsh children’s musical, a show about builders, a legendary Scottish theatre company and now with my own play and I can honestly say it is still a great pleasure and honour to perform at the Fringe. I still love it, it still makes me nervous going against some of the biggest theatre companies in the world but the Fringe has that wonderful knack of finding those gems that don’t necessarily have this biggest budgets. Nothing compares to being here as a performer, to feel part of the artistic community that makes the Edinburgh Fringe the biggest and best in the world.

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

I have to keep reminding myself that the Edinburgh Fringe is a marathon not a sprint. You get nothing for free and the fringe doesn’t care how many followers you have on social media. At some point in week 2 there will organically be a bunch of shows that the fringe deems unmissable and it’s not always the ones everyone expects.

Engaging with people whilst flyering is so much more effective than just handing out as many fliers as possible. Talk to people!

Never get complacent, they’ll always be a bunch of performers working harder than you are in an attempt to convince the same audience’s to come see them.

Tell us about your show.

I wrote Thunderstruck in 2017 and since then it has taken me on a roller coaster adventure. It started it’s life playing Folk music festivals in Glasgow, was booked by the Fringe in 2019 won a bunch of awards and in the subsequent years went to Australia (won more awards), went on an 18 date Scottish tour and is returning to the Fringe for a 5th season. We’re working on where Thunderstruck goes next, if I’ve learned anything it’s that sometimes, Thunderstruck has told me what we’re doing next.

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

“Death Becomes us” at Space venue, surgeons hall. Written by and starring the wonderful Hannah Whittingham. She’s self producing and going for it with 22 shows and knowing her as I do, I’m sure it’ll be wonderful.

Everything at the Scottish Storytelling centre, it is a diamond venue and they work hard to bring great established work as well as give storytellers their big chance. In that venue I’d recommend anything with Niall Moorjani as well as The Loud Poets (No 1 poetry show!), The Young Edinburgh Storytellers are back and Hero/Banlaoch by Sinead O’Brien, I saw her show last year and it blew me away, no doubts she’ll do it again.

Finally, finally Ruben Kaye is the Emperor of Cabaret and being naughty while Baby Wants Candy are the unparalleled kings and queens of improv.

LIKE WHAT YOU JUST READ? FOLLOW US ON TWITTER! OR SIGN UP TO OUR MAILING LIST!

INTERESTED IN BEING INTERVIEWED TOO? CLICK HERE!

EdFringe Talk: Sing, Sign and Sensory

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

image of event

“There really is something for everybody, and this year there is our gorgeous show for the very youngest fringe goers, babies aged 0 – 24 months and their families and caregivers.”

WHO: Sara Jackson

WHAT: “Sing, Sign and Sensory offers sensory-based performance workshops tailored to infants between 0-24 months. They are first of their kind and offer an immersive, creative experience in customised, inflatable sensory pods. Each session has an engaging narrative, songs to singalong with and visually captivating animations. The pods are equipped with projectors, fans, textured objects and pleasant aromas to make for an enriching sensory journey. Funded by Lottery Funded Arts Council England and Little Lives UK.”

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

WHEN: 10:15, 11:00 (30 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

This is the first time Effectus Theatre has visited the Fringe. However, Sara has been a frequent performer at the Fringe for many years.

We love the unique experience of the Edinburgh Fringe festival, there is nothing and nowhere else like it in the world.

There really is something for everybody, and this year there is our gorgeous show for the very youngest fringe goers, babies aged 0 – 24 months and their families and caregivers.

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

We were not at the Fringe in 2023. But over the last year, we have gone on a big learning curve as a company. We are still waiting to absorb it all and see our festival visit become real.

Tell us about your show.

Sing, Sign & Sensory offers sensory-based performance workshops tailored to infants between 0-24 months.

They are a first-of-their-kind and offer an immersive, creative experience in customised, inflatable sensory pods.

Each session has an engaging narrative, songs to sing along to, and visually captivating animations. The pods are equipped with projectors, fans, textured objects, and pleasant aromas to make for an enriching sensory journey.

Our interactive experience will captivate your little ones, taking them on a magical journey they’ll never forget.

Immerse your baby in a morning of adventure as we explore the mysteries of the ocean together, play with the jungle animals, or journey into outer space. Through singing, signing, and sensory play, we’ll stimulate their senses and ignite their curiosity.

With Sing, Sign and Sensory, your little one will develop important communication skills while having an absolute blast.

Devised and performed by Sara Jackson or babies aged 0 – 24 months. Sing, Sign and Sensory has been enchanting babies across the UK since 2023. It sold out at the Brighton Fringe and has received a prestigious Keeping It Fringe Award to visit the Edinburgh Festival this year.

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

We love The Amazing Mr Bubble Man. He is such a crucial part of the children’s Edinburgh experience. We go see him every year. He once turned our son into a steam train. He’s wonderful!

LIKE WHAT YOU JUST READ? FOLLOW US ON TWITTER! OR SIGN UP TO OUR MAILING LIST!

INTERESTED IN BEING INTERVIEWED TOO? CLICK HERE!

EdFringe Talk: Body, Pauline Eyre

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

image of event

“I bloody love Edinburgh!”

WHO: Pauline Eyre

WHAT: “Menopause: the comedy gift that keeps on giving. Until it’s over. Then what? She’s had it all her life and finally, comedian Pauline Eyre is ready to celebrate her body. It’s quite challenging, learning to love yourself, isn’t it? But if you don’t do it now, when will you? ‘A comedy show about what it means to be a woman in your fifties learning to live… with some of the most special and perhaps horrifying experiences of life. Her humour is extraordinarily infectious… you will have a lot of fun’ (BritishTheatre.com).”

WHERE: Just the Tonic at Cabaret Voltaire – Just the Common Room (Venue 338) 

WHEN: 12:30 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

It’s my first full run with a solo show, but I brought split shows with other comedians in 2018 (Better) & 2019 (Buffering, sold out!) & this show (Body) as a WIP for 5 days in 2023
EdFringe is special because of the cobbles & the venues & the people & the buzz & the comedians & the ice cream on Grassmarket & the pipers driving you nuts on Waverley Bridge & the castle looking glorious. I bloody love Edinburgh!

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

Last year my venue was slightly north of Aberdeen (this may be a slight exaggeration). I wasn’t making that mistake again and am now nestled in the centre of everything at Cabaret Voltaire
I also learned that ice cream every day was a VERY good idea and I shall be building on that important lesson this year.

Tell us about your show.

This is a solo stand-up comedy show – I wrote it & perform it & it’s directed by the incredible Ben Vandervelde. It’s also played comedy fringes in London, Cambridge, Glasgow, Harwich, Manchester, Colchester, Hull, (breathe!) Swansea, Telford, Birmingham, Oxford, Nottingham, Bristol, Bath… er that’s it.

After Edinburgh I will be collapsing in a heap on the floor. I will then think about where to take

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

Two hours after my show ends you can see Louise Leigh Distracted (say it out loud for an extra joke) – if you like my Body, you’ll love hers! Same room, Cabaret Voltaire, 3.30.

Rachel Creeger: Ultimate Jewish Mother is at Whistlebinkies at 1.30 – she’ll make you soup and give you sage advice.

Grace Mulvey: Tall Baby, 7.05pm, Assembly Roxy – glorious Irish Catholic nonsense form a brilliant & hilarious new voice.

And Lauren Pattison puts on her Big Girl Pants 1t 1pm, Monkey Barrel 1. I’ve seen this in preview and once again, Pattison brings it home – she’s bloody wonderful.

LIKE WHAT YOU JUST READ? FOLLOW US ON TWITTER! OR SIGN UP TO OUR MAILING LIST!

INTERESTED IN BEING INTERVIEWED TOO? CLICK HERE!