Category Archives: *Written Interviews

From time to time we encounter an artist or producer toiling away at something pretty special. Here’s what they have to say, in their own words, about their work.

EdFringe Talk: Do You Accept These Charges?

Posted in *EdFestivals 2025, *Written Interviews by

“Edfringe is like this big fantastical wonderland to us over in Los Angeles and I feel like I have a key to a magical kingdom or something.”

WHO: Laurie Magers

WHAT: “A bad boy? Hot. A bad person? Not. It’s Christmas Day and Laurie’s on her way to visit her boyfriend… in prison. A must-see fringe debut from US comedian Laurie Magers (Netflix’s Obliterated, Upright Citizens Brigade) about the time she dated an incarcerated multi-felon. Unapologetically hilarious and unflinchingly honest, Laurie reflects on her real-life relationship with a guy behind bars – from phone sex to prison letters, visitation to vaginal drug smuggling. This true story confronts love addiction, sexuality, abuse, and the complexities of the American prison system. But don’t worry, it’s super funny.”

WHERE: Below at Pleasance Courtyard (Venue 33) 

WHEN: 15:10 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

I’ve been to the city before and I LOVE it, but I’ve never been during the festival and I’m out of control stoked to be attending as a performer this year. Edfringe is like this big fantastical wonderland to us over in Los Angeles and I feel like I have a key to a magical kingdom or something. I truly can’t wait. I’ve done the Hollywood Fringe Festival as a performer and director, which is the biggest one we have in our country and by all accounts it doesn’t even hold a candle to the intensity of Edfringe. I’m ready and raring to go.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2024 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

I’ve learned that I need rest. I’m so used to going a million miles a minute and saying yes to everyone and everything that comes my way. I love walking down all paths and leaving no stone unturned. I most certainly have not absorbed this lesson yet. I still suffer from FOMO more than anyone I know, and have a really tough time taking a break.

Tell us about your show.

My show is about the time I dated a guy in prison. It’s a truly wild story and the show is a wild ride. It’s non-stop emotional whiplash and is as funny as it is heavy. I wrote it, and I’m producing it with Suzanna Rosenthal Productions who was recommended to me by my publicist as well as a couple friends. I had a limited run at the Hollywood Fringe Festival and I plan to take the show to New York, London, and anywhere else that will have me!

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

They should see Heavenly Baba from Ismael Loutfi. Just like my show, it’s also an unbelievable but true story from his life that is poignant and funny. His experience is uniquely Floridian and Muslim. I haven’t heard a story like his. They should also see One Man John Wick from Woody Fu because it is silly and fun and insanely well done. And who doesn’t love John Wick? Finally everyone should go watch Murder, Oops! from Molly Sharpe. It is the most unhinged solo play I have ever seen and I mean that as the highest compliment. I nearly cried from laughing every minute of watching that train roll off its tracks.

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EdFringe Talk: When We Were Young

Posted in *EdFestivals 2025, *Written Interviews by

“We also learnt how expensive parking is in Edinburgh , but we got a lovely wee space using JUSTPARK that will make the travel to and from Edinburgh every day less expensive.”

WHO: Liam Lambie

WHAT: “This five-star production tells a powerful and hilarious story about the realities of gang culture and young team mentality in Glasgow during the 90s, as we follow the lives of one of the many young teams who polluted the streets of the city during a time it was known as The Murder Capital of Europe. This heartbreaking story is both a hilarious and eye-opening look back to 90s Glasgow and the notorious postcode wars.”

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

WHEN: Varies (55 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

Although I am a regular visitor to the festival this is my first year bringing a production – it’s been scary , it’s been daunting but it is so exciting.

Knowing that a production myself and the team have worked so hard on is going to be seen at thee biggest arts festival in the world is AMAZING!

We have all put our blood , sweat and tears into making this happen, endless hours of fundraising and promotion but it is so worth it to be part of something so incredible.
I always get excited about fringe season coming up but this year knowing we will have a show playing part of it makes it even more exciting! I can’t wait to get into Edinburgh and get started!

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2024 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

Whilst visiting the fringe 2024 myself and partner Ross decided we HAD to bring WHEN WE WERE YOUNG to the festival for 2025 . It was scary however after speaking to several other producers and performers we learnt it’s all about taking that plunge and #DaretoDiscover just how amazing the outcome can be and that’s exactly what we done; we let go of any reservations we had and threw ourselves into it whole heartedly. Although as we get closer to the festival the main thing we are all feeling now is excitement.

We also learnt how expensive parking is in Edinburgh , but we got a lovely wee space using JUSTPARK that will make the travel to and from Edinburgh every day less expensive.

Tell us about your show.

I am the writer of WHEN WE WERE YOUNG and myself and my partner are producing it with our company Geez a Break Productions!

The show tells the story of one of the many Young Teams who polluted the streets of Glasgow during a time the city was named ‘The Murder Capital of Europe’ – the show tells a tale of Friendship, survival and stolen youth as the group struggle to navigate the harsh realities of growing up the poverty stricken schemes of the city.

Although set in Glasgow during the 90s the themes and issues the play tackles is just as relevant in today’s society ; The show is main aim is to raise awareness of youth violence and the Knife Crime Epidemic that we are currently facing in the UK

The show has toured all over Scotland and Northern England since its initial tour in 2023 and has gained public and critical acclaim every where it went.
After the fringe we are delighted to be bringing the production to the iconic PAVILION THEATRE in Glasgow this October (for the third time due to demand).

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

If you are looking to catch another show after seeing WHEN WE WERE YOUNG we would recommend seeing THE WEE MAN- Mr and Mrs at the stand comedy Club. We caught the show when it was on this year at the GICF.

The play is performed by Neil Bratchpiece as the Wee Man and the very talented Dionne Frati as his wife. Dionne just so happens to also be a cast member in When We Were Young.

I think if you enjoy our show you will like The Wee Man too, it’s centered around the same topic , life in the schemes of Scotland and firmly shines a spotlight on a group of society who are often neglected in main stream theatre.

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EdFringe Talk: Jess Robinson: Your Song

Posted in *EdFestivals 2025, *Written Interviews by

“This year feels extra special because my show is joyful, unfiltered, and full of music I adore.”

WHO: Jess Robinson

WHAT: “Elton John’s greatest hits are reimagined by multi award-winning Jess Robinson (Dead Ringers, The Last Leg), renowned for her pitch-perfect impressions. Celebrating Elton through the voices of iconic women: Britney, Barbra, Amy, and more. ***** (Edinburgh Festivals Magazine). ***** (Edinburgh Evening News). **** (Chortle.co.uk). ‘It’s like a mega concert with all your favourite stars’ (ITV). ‘Naturally funny, pitch perfect’ (Telegraph). ‘Slick impressions, super powered ballads’ (Guardian). ‘A star is born’ (Metro).”

WHERE: Piccolo Tent at Assembly George Square Gardens (Venue 3) 

WHEN: 18:05 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

I’ve been doing the Fringe since 2013, but I’ve been coming even longer — first as a kid, then as a teenager with my friends when we could just about afford a hotel and would cram in 21 shows in three days. Things have changed a bit since then.

What makes a great festival for me is the sheer variety, the atmosphere, and that buzz when you see something properly brilliant and unexpected.

This year feels extra special because my show is joyful, unfiltered, and full of music I adore. I’m not contorting myself into something I think the industry wants to see — I’m giving them something I love performing. And that feels like a mini-festival win already.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2024 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

The biggest thing I’ve learned is to follow my joy. For years I twisted myself into knots trying to make the “right” kind of show — the one I thought the industry wanted to see, something clever or edgy or showcase-y enough to tick all the boxes.

But this year, I’ve done something different. I’ve made a show that I’m genuinely, wildly proud of — not because it’s trying to impress anyone, but because it’s fun. It’s full of music I love, impressions I enjoy doing, and it celebrates everything I find joyful and ridiculous and fabulous. And in doing that, I think it’s actually the most “me” I’ve ever been on stage.

So yes, I’ve absorbed the lesson — and I’ll hopefully hang onto it beyond August too.

Tell us about your show.

The show is called Jess Robinson: Your Song – Elton Reimagined. It’s a joyful, camp, glitter-soaked celebration of Elton John’s greatest hits, reimagined through the voices of iconic women — living, dead, and occasionally unhinged.

I wrote the show myself, and I’m co-producing it with the wonderful Heather Ruck through her company Topper and Fred. Heather’s been an incredible champion of the work and a total Fringe superhero. . . (She used to programme Assembly)

My musical director and collaborator is the brilliant Matthew Floyd Jones — you might know him as one half of Frisky and Mannish, or as the composer of Kathy and Stella Solve a Murder. Working with him has been a joy: he’s helped bring the show to life musically and comedically, and he’s joining me on stage too (though I’m not allowed to make eye contact with him because I’ll corpse).

We had our first full run at Soho Theatre in London over four nights at the start of July, and it was honestly magical. We had a standing ovation every night, and the response gave me so much confidence that the show really connects with people. We also did some previews in Brighton, and now Edinburgh is the show’s proper festival premiere.

After the Fringe, we’re planning a wider tour, more London dates, and hopefully some fabulous international bookings too!

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

Trygve Wakenshaw, because he’s a rubber-limbed genius and watching him feels like stepping into a cartoon drawn by Salvador Dalí.

Jessica Fostekew, because she’s razor-sharp, hilarious and full of heart.

Robin Morgan, because he’s as warm as he is witty — and ridiculously clever with a callback.

Elf Lyons – The Bird Trilogy She’s doing three shows (Swan, ChiffChaff, Raven) at Pleasance Dome… A truly boundary-pushing performer who won Best Show in 2024.

Abbie Murphy – Garage Girl (WIP).

A love letter to UK Garage, full of energy and nostalgia. She’s magnetic, fearless, and incredibly brilliant in this work-in-progress.

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EdFringe Talk: The Anti “Yogi”

Posted in *EdFestivals 2025, *Written Interviews by

“I’ve had to really trust my intuition, even while working with collaborators who may have more experience.”

WHO: Mayuri Bhandari

WHAT: “Are you worthy of the Goddess’s blessings? Or her wrath? Join Mayuri Bhandari and Kali, the Goddess of Death every day as they navigate the absurdities of Western Yoga culture. Liberation, not Lululemon! This award-winning Hollywood Fringe show blends dance, drama, comedy, poetry and live percussion by renowned musician Neel Agrawal. Mayuri gives voice to the true ethos of yoga, weaving together cultural appropriation, decolonisation and community. Come peel back the yoga mat and join the revolution! PS: You don’t need to know anything about yoga to see this show!”

WHERE: Jade Studio at Greenside @ George Street (Venue 236) 

WHEN: 12:40 (55 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

Yes, this is my first time at the Edinburgh Fringe—and honestly, I couldn’t be more excited. I visited Edinburgh once, many years ago, but coming here as an artist for the Fringe will be an entirely different experience. There’s something about this festival that feels almost mythical. I’ve heard so many stories—about the artists, the energy, the chaos, the breakthroughs, the opportunities. It’s the mecca of theatre festivals- so to speak- a rite of passage for so many performers. It’s where solo shows I really admire, like Fleabag and Baby Reindeer, first took off. And now, I finally get to be part of it.

What makes this even more special is that there are a lot of firsts: performing, producing, and bringing my first solo show to the Edinburgh Fringe for the first time. I premiered THE ANTI “YOGI” at Hollywood Fringe last year—it was my debut as a writer, performer, and producer—and I was really touched by the response. While it’s a one-woman show, I’m definitely not doing it alone. I’m so grateful for the incredible folks helping bring this piece to life—my brilliant percussionist Neel Agrawal, my visionary co-directors and co-dramaturgs Shyamala Moorty and D’Lo, my producers (Mike and Nigel at Fringe Management), Syona Varty, Rena Patel, and my social media team: Trish Hosein and Amie from Fringe Management. It truly takes a village.

I didn’t get the chance to go to theatre school, but I’ve always been a performer from a very young age—I was that kid putting on spontaneous plays, making up poetry on the spot, and belting out and reenacting every Disney sing-along in the living room. So in a way, this moment feels like I’m reconnecting with my inner child, but from a place of awe and wonder as an adult.

Last year, Hollywood Fringe had around 400 shows. Edinburgh is nearly 7 times that. The sheer scale alone is mind-blowing. I’m excited (and a little nervous) for the challenge—the stamina it’ll take, the intensity, and the rush of being surrounded by artists from all over the world, each telling bold, edgy, deeply personal stories. I can’t wait to share my work with international audiences, witness and connect with other artists, and see what journey lies in store.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2024 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

Set a deadline, and just focus on the work, not the outcomes—the rest will come. That has rang true for me. If I’m truly committed, I can trust the process. Because I put so much in, I’ve been able to actually enjoy performing and be present. I’ve also learned to give myself grace along the way.

Since 2024, I’ve really started to understand the importance of holding space for both the artistry and the business. It’s called the entertainment business. I’ve had to learn how to promote the show, especially by connecting one-on-one with people in a real way. I found that social media can be an advantageous tool – to have the show reach and connect with so many international audiences. And that’s been powerful—because this solo show isn’t just about me. It’s about practices and issues much bigger than I.

I’ve also learned to invest in myself—not only financially (this was the first time I ever put this amount of money in my own work- but who will believe in me more than myself?), but also emotionally and creatively. I’ve had to really trust my intuition, even while working with collaborators who may have more experience. I absolutely take advice, but I’ve learned to hold on to the parts of the work I feel deeply connected to—because no one else will see the show exactly the way I do.

One surprise? The admin work never ends—and it only grows as the show grows. Figuring out how to expand the team has been both exciting and challenging. I’m very intentional about who I bring into the process, and having a team that truly believes in the purpose of the show makes a huge difference.

And then there’s the voice—literally. I’m learning how to bring together my activism and my artistry so they’re not separate—but part of the same, evolving conversation.

Tell us about your show.

The Anti “Yogi”: Liberation, Not Lululemon is a theatrical critique of Westernized yoga culture, told through the lens of an Indian American artist and yoga professor—me. As someone from the very culture yoga originates in, I explore what it means to be a minority in a practice deeply rooted in my heritage, yet often distorted, exploited, and commodified in the West.

The show dives into themes of cultural appropriation, identity, decolonization, and the erasure of South Asian voices. A “yogi” isn’t someone in Lululemon doing hot yoga—it’s someone who renounces worldly life in pursuit of truth. What we often see today is the exact opposite. I wanted to create work that doesn’t just talk about these issues like a lecture, but allows people to feel them— it resonates differently.

Even though I teach these topics at the university level, I realized I needed to express them through my art. This show brings together all the forms I love—live sound, rhythm, movement, visual poetry, and character work. It’s deeply personal, but it’s not just about me. I created it for everyone—but especially for South Asians and people of color to feel seen, to connect, and to reflect on the erasure of our own histories.

I wrote, performed, and originally produced the show at Hollywood Fringe 2024, where it premiered to wonderful reviews. Now I’m working with Fringe Management to bring it to Edinburgh, alongside an incredible team: my co-directors and dramaturgs Shyamala Moorty and D’Lo (who inspired me with To T or Not to T), and percussionist Neel Agrawal, who joined close to showtime but elevated the piece with his live instrumentation—he plays 9–10 Indian and Western percussion instruments and truly raises the frequency of the show. (There are so many more beautiful collaborators who make this possible.)

Jessica Johnson supported the early development, which led to my connection with Fringe Management (Mike, Nigel, David, Amie), and later with producers Syona Varty and Rena Patel. Incredible Trish Hosein handles our social media, and I’m excited to work with our tech lead, Alexei Veprentev.

After Edinburgh, I intend to take the show to Adelaide Fringe and New Zealand, followed by a wider international tour—across the U.S., and hopefully U.K., India, Canada, Europe, and South America. People have reached out from all over via social media asking to bring the show to their cities, and I’d love to make that a reality!

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

There are so many shows I want to check out—but I’d like to give a shout out to the ones coming from here in LA! I’m genuinely excited to see these myself and support my fellow creatives:
Alongside our show at Greenside, we’ve got some kind peeps doing a double whammy of two shows each!

Olivia Raine Atwood is performing in Faking It, a true-to-life comedy about her classified mission evaluating NYC hospitals, and Oops, a hilarious piece about professional matchmaking. Also at Greenside is Soness Stevens, bringing two very different shows: Bigger in Japan, a solo stand-up storytelling piece about finding fame abroad, and Anime-Zing!, a game show where voice actors dub anime clips live on stage!

Another show from our Hollywood Fringe crew is There’s Something Seriously Wrong with Cyrus by Cyrus Deboo—a one-man show about an Indian-Persian gay man navigating the complexities of his identity. Outside of the LA circle, I came across Kanpur: 1857—based on Indian historical events. It’s a new play by Niall Moorjani that comically satirizes contemporary conflicts around gender, colonial violence, and making art in times of crisis.

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EdFringe Talk: Josh Elton: Away With The Fairies

Posted in *EdFestivals 2025, *Written Interviews by

“I no longer need to get sports injuries by playing sports. I but my back out recently by having sex – in a dream.”

WHO: Josh Elton

WHAT: “Josh Elton’s brand of barnstorming comedy is the perfect show to start the day. Razor-sharp jokes, unshakeable confidence and an award-winning comedy mind. A Welshman, a Jew and a damn fine comedian, Josh Elton takes a sidewise look at life, the universe and why Swansea is a bit rough. ‘Rocks every show’ (Ignacio Lopez). ‘Really really funny’ (David Baddiel). Winner: Welsh Unsigned Stand-Up Award.”

WHERE: Hoot 4 at Hoots @ The Apex (Venue 108) 

WHEN: 20:00 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

The Fringe is like Mecca for attention seekers and I am making the holy pilgammage for the fourth time. This is my debut year! That’s industry jargon for the first full hour you do. Which means I’m throwing everything at it. I’m. doing my best stuff, at a good time for comedy (8Pm) in an air-conditioned room (thank God), the show is looking great. It makes it so much easier when you haven’t walked 20,000 steps hungover at midday, trying to convince someone to come see your show in a dilapidated phonebooth with a rickety mic stand.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2024 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

That is the year I left the 18-34 bracket. The lesson I’ve learned is that I no longer need to get sports injuries by playing sports. I but my back out recently by having sex – in a dream. Nowadays if my friend says “smell my fingers” it means he has new moisturiser. I’ve become a tax paying adult. Which is disgusting. To be honest I’ve spent the year for the first time as a full time comic, which involves driving, driving, doing jokes, driving and driving. I’m basically a long haul trucker, who delivers punchlines, eats out of a thermos and drives 4 hours home. That’s why I’ve cannibalised my life story for this show.

Tell us about your show.

This show is the story of my life. A story of bullies meet boy, boy meets puddle… comedian origin story, then a big chunk of 2017 with nightmare gigs, the world’s most embarrassing car crash, being humiliated on BBC News and a very silly life saving event starring fairies. I wrote it all with a pen, a dream and mountain of credit card debt. My good friend Ignacio Lopez (of Live at the Appollo and HIGNFY fame) is producing the show which has been AMAZING.

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

Ignacio Lopez is producing my show but he’s also previewing a work in progress called Nada. I’ve been lucky to see him work up new stuff. It’s taught me a work ethic that if people turn up to your show it doesn’t matter if it says “work in progress” on the ticket, they paid to see you, you’d better be funny. He’s also producing Steffan Alun: Stand Up, which the debut of a friend of mine, who has been a stalwart in the Welsh comedy scene for years. Both of these guys totally big brothered me (by which I mean mentored, not installed telescreens to spy on my house). If you like me, you should go see them.

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EdFringe Talk: The Nature of Forgetting

Posted in *EdFestivals 2025, *Written Interviews by

“It started with a question. Something that we didn’t have the answer to: what is eternal?”

WHO: Guillaume Pigé

WHAT: “Following more than 200 performances across the globe, Theatre Re, ‘One of the UK’s most admired physical theatre companies’ (Scotsman), returns with its explosive and joyous five-star sell-out international hit about what is left when memory is gone. Tom is living with early onset dementia. We meet him as he prepares for his 55th birthday party and past memories come flooding back. ‘Profoundly moving… an action-packed celebration of life’ (BBC Radio 4). ‘Extraordinary… special, surprising and magical’ (Sarah Jessica Parker). ‘A moving and enthralling spectacle’ (Stage). ‘Incredible’ (GQ).”

WHERE: Pleasance Online (Venue 117) 

WHEN: 13:15 (75 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

This will be our 6th Edinburgh Fringe venture. Our first visit dates back to 2012. Back then we were already going with The Pleasance. We were in a small 80 seater in the Dome – the beautiful JackDome. This year we are in the emblematic Pleasance Grand with 800 seats! Deep down, this is something we have always wanted and we could not be more proud, excited and slightly terrified as well to be honest.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2024 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

I think I have learned to trust the work and it’s quality. The Fringe is a wonderful place to share your work but it can also be a difficult place at times, and remembering why we come up, what is it that we are trying to achieve and also that the work is good is important if not crucial.

Tell us about your show.

The Nature of Forgetting tells the story of Tom; a middle aged father living with early onset dementia. Tom is being cared for by his daughter Sophie. We present him on the day of his 55th birthday. As he struggles to get dressed for his party, the feel of his clothes sparks him into life.

The show was collaboratively devised by the whole of the creative team. It started with a question. Something that we didn’t have the answer to: what is eternal? The way we tried to respond was very open and encompassed a wide range techniques, art forms and theatre traditions. The whole process was guided by a sense of play and the joy we found in it. After a few weeks of rehearsals the question became: what is left when memory is gone? I don’t think we have found the answer, and that’s probably why we made a show about it.

The show has toured quite extensively across the globe already since 2017 with mote than 200 performances in more than 15 countries – including a Broadway transfer, international licensing, and sold-out runs at the Hong Kong Arts Festival, the Cerventino Festival (Mexico), and London International Mime Festival.

After the Fringe, we will be taking the show to Warwick Arts Centre for 2 shows on November 18th and 19th before touring to China for 3 weeks until mid-December. More international and UK dates are in discussion for in 2026 and beyond.

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

I have not scouted the whole programme just yet but for now I am very excited about:

Léa Tirabasso’s In the Bushes at Summerhall – mad cap abstract dance

Spy Movie: The Play at The Pleasance – it’s going to be hilarious

Skye and Amazons at Summerhall – both pieces sound beautiful

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EdFringe Talk: Gianmarco Soresi: The Drama King Tour

Posted in *EdFestivals 2025, *Written Interviews by

“It’s extremely tempting to use my platform, given to me for my comedy work, and just pivot into shouting about all the ills in the world.”

WHO: Gianmarco Soresi

WHAT: “Edinburgh Fringe debut of New York-based stand-up comedian, actor and creator known for his sharp societal observation and spry, energetic stage presence and as the host of the popular podcast The Downside with Gianmarco Soresi. Gianmarco effortlessly commands a room with his animated style, blending upbeat candor with dark comedic beats – which has garnered him critical acclaim from NPR, Esquire, The Atlantic, Buzzfeed, ABC News and many more.”

WHERE: Monkey Barrel 3 at Monkey Barrel Comedy (Venue 515) 

WHEN: 14:50 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

I was lucky enough to perform at the Monkey Barrel last year for four shows I believe. It was my first time in Edinburgh as well and I loved the cobbled streets and hills (at least on the way down); it feels like the place an artist should always live.

I think what makes a great festival is the if the audiences are passionate for discovering new performers. Social media has allowed people to find who they like and get fed an endless slop of that one person’s work (I’ve benefited from this greatly) but there’s something so much more interesting when you see someone for the first time and then go oh my god I now want to see everything this person has ever done. While I do hope for fans in the crowd (I don’t want to work too hard) it would be nice to show off my wares to people who aren’t addicted to TikTok.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2024 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

I think I learned that the moment you get too preachy with your comedy you’ve failed. It’s extremely tempting to use my platform, given to me for my comedy work, and just pivot into shouting about all the ills in the world. But I’m striving (and getting better at) writing jokes that nobody agrees with and I ultimately think my own feelings on important matters will come through more effectively that way.

Tell us about your show.

My show is like all my headlining shows on the road, it’s the best material I’m currently sifting through and is, when I’m at my best, a snapchat of my feelings about the world and my life within it. I know this is a little antithetical to model of a one-person show (and can lead towards sloppy, underprepared performances) but I’ve been doing this long enough that it’ll be worth the ticket price. I’m also just off a massive Europe tour where I’ve been honing this material and will continue touring it around the world once the festival is through.

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

Given that this is my first festival, I wouldn’t take my advice too seriously but from the several Stamptowns I’ve seen around America you should absolutely see that before Zach Zucker figures out a way to water it down and install it at a Las Vegas hotel so he can make the millions he deserves for concocting it in the first place.

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EdFringe Talk: Diona Doherty: Get Your Pink Back!

Posted in *EdFestivals 2025, *Written Interviews by

“I’m leaving the kids at home for the month with their Dad and I know I’m really going to struggle without them there, so I REALLLLLY need for a call from Tarantino or Netflix special or even a simple entire-sold-out run to make it worth while, would be nice. I’m not fussy.”

WHO: Diona Doherty

WHAT: “Irish comedian Diona Doherty has lost her pink (we called it ‘mojo’ before the internet). She’s pretty certain her kids are hiding it. Along with her abs. In her debut hour she is on a mission to get it back and prove that she can still have fun. As long as that fun ends by 9pm. From Derry Girls, Blame Game and The News Quiz. ‘One of the country’s top comedians’ (BelfastLive.co.uk). ‘Tickles the funny bone as much as it touches the heart’ (BritishTheatreGuide.info).”

WHERE: Monkey Barrel 2 at Monkey Barrel Comedy (Venue 515) 

WHEN: 14:55 (60 min)

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Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

I have performed in Edinburgh a number of times in a sketch group and last years did a handful of stand up shows but this year is my first full year doing my own stand up show. It feels very special. I’m throwing everything and the kitchen sink at it. I’m leaving the kids at home for the month with their Dad and I know I’m really going to struggle without them there, so I REALLLLLY need for a call from Tarantino or Netflix special or even a simple entire-sold-out run to make it worth while, would be nice. I’m not fussy.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2024 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

I did a handful of shows last year but more importantly I watched some other brilliant stand ups and I was just blown away by the amazing talent the UK has to offer when it comes to comedians. Nothing better than that to put a fire in your belly to work hard and make your show the best it can be. In saying that, I’ve learnt to not compare myself ot other comedians. It’ all so subjective. You wouldn’t compare a lead singer in a heavv-metal band with an operatic singer sos why compare myself to another comedian who is entirely different that I am. There’s room for us all.

Tell us about your show.

Get Your Pink Back is a one hour stand up show from myself, Derry comedian, Doina Doherty. Whilst the shows theme is about me finding my mojo again after having kids, it’s not a show just for parents. Lots of it is me reflecting nostalgically on the younger me who played Kerby, went into the off licence wearing my Mums work clothes and made my own shoes. There’s something in there for everything, I think.

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

Go see other brilliant female comics like Ria Lina. I love seeing other women do well and Ria is so different to me so I can’t wait to see what she does next.  Janine Harouni: I’ve been seeing some brilliant clips of her online. She seems so polished and I’m excited to see her new stuff. She is also a working comedian with a young child so maybe she’s as knackered as I am. Irish sketch group Foil Arms and Hog: I adore these guys. They are the most likeable sketch group I’ve ever seen. I’ve seen them lives a few times and I am always in awe. Always love to support Irish talent too.

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EdFringe Talk: Parker Callahan: Soda Pop

Posted in *EdFestivals 2025, *Written Interviews by

“I’m a 365 Party Girl.”

WHO: Parker Callahan

WHAT: “Soda Pop is an alt-comedy tour de force: a multimedia, stream-of-consciousness ride through the mind of a slightly deranged gay man. Featuring original music and media, Parker keeps audiences laughing and asking, ‘is this the gay agenda’? One moment he’s singing about thrift store underwear, the next he’s calling the cops on someone who looked at him weird. There’s no trauma, just dumb, delightful chaos. Still, Parker hits notes from the vulgar to the divine. Simply put: Soda Pop is a pop concert-Ted Talk-spectacle led by a twink in a Speedo. Any questions?”

WHERE: Studio Five at Assembly George Square Studios (Venue 17) 

WHEN: 22:05 (60 min)

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Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

For the Fringe? Yes! Virgin meat, boys. I visited Edinburgh once when I was teenager, and the only thing I remember is going on a ghost tour in Greyfriars Kirkyard where they had someone jump out and scare you whilst in a crypt. Incredible. So needless to say, I’m thrilled to return and experience the beautiful chaos that is EdFringe for the first time.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2024 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

Since I’ve never experienced the festival, something that I learned in 2024 (just in general) is that I’m a 365 Party Girl. (This is of course a reference to Miss Charlotte Emma Aitchison’s 2024 album BRAT.)

Tell us about your show.

Soda Pop is entirely my own creation; written, performed, and conceived by me. It’s a multimedia comedy monster packed with jokes, music, visuals, and a lot of surprises. The show premiered earlier this year in Chicago, where I’ve since performed it multiple times. After Edinburgh, I’ll be taking Soda Pop on tour to New York and Los Angeles.

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

I would recommend seeing Alan Resnick’s One Funny Hour and anything featuring Grace Lusk! I don’t know many people going to the fest or many shows that will be up, but I am excited to see the weirdos doing experimental things. Nothing brings me greater joy than seeing someone take a risk and it paying off. When it doesn’t pay off, it’s also enjoyable. You can’t lose. I love a BIG SWING!

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EdFringe Talk: Britt Migs: Dolphin Mode

Posted in *EdFestivals 2025, *Written Interviews by

“I think the thing I’m most looking forward to is the “summer camp for performers” aspect. I mean, a whole village of performers? Living and working and putting on shows together for a month? I never got to study abroad so this is my redemption arc.”

WHO: Britt Migs 

WHAT: “New York Comedy Festival’s Creator to Watch, Britt is newly divorced and coming out… again. Using stand-up, storytelling and graphic design, Britt takes you on her rollercoaster (or should we say jetski) ride of a journey. You’ll hit bumps like heartbreak, dating, feral men in her DMs and having to come out to her family. But then you’ll glide through smoother waters like her beautiful new queer life! If you’re single, dating, straight, gay, have ever gone through a breakup, been cheated on or been scammed by a bot on Instagram… this show is for you!”

WHERE: Buttercup at Underbelly, George Square (Venue 300) 

WHEN: 14:15 (60 min)

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Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

I’m a first timer! The Fringe is legendary…a magical, almost mythical place where you can hone your craft, make a name for yourself, make your dreams come true! It’s been a goal of mine to perform there ever since I became aware of it. So many incredible comics that I look up to have taken their shows to the Fringe and I’ve always just looked on in awe, but now it’s my turn! So just getting to perform there will be a “pinch me” moment. But I think the thing I’m most looking forward to is the “summer camp for performers” aspect. I mean, a whole village of performers? Living and working and putting on shows together for a month? I never got to study abroad so this is my redemption arc. I cannot believe I get to live in Scotland – performing and watching comedy – for a whole month!

I think what makes a great festival is its participants. As a performer, be a good hang! As a first timer, I’m going to do my best to live in the moment and have a good attitude – which is what I hope for for everyone else. See every show you possibly can, or at least every type of show you can. Try new things, eat new foods, make new friends! This is my plan, anyways.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2024 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

I’ve learned that there will always be something new to be nervous about. Doing ‘Dolphin Mode’ for the first time was the most nervous I’ve ever been for anything. Sure, I had performed hundreds of times but it was my very first solo show. I had never put something so personal out onstage. But upon reflection, I realized I was that nervous for my first open mic, I was that nervous for my first show, I was that nervous for my first show to more than 50 people, and so on and so forth. As I sit here, nervous for my very first Fringe, there is both horror and comfort in knowing that something else will soon take its place as The Thing That Made Me Most Nervous. The horrors persist but so do I!

Tell us about your show.

I wrote Dolphin Mode – it came to me in pieces and then all at once when I realized that joking about my divorce was the best way to process it. It’s been a real labor of love and loss. Performing standup about the most traumatizing event of my life and the fallout that followed was a cathartic and healing process for me. But the show is also about how my life got so much better once I got gayer. As the months drew on and I started writing jokes about dating…gay dating…and then my new gay relationship, I realized that I had the perfect narrative arc for a show.

When I was in search of a director to bring the show to life, I was hesitant about who to trust with this vulnerable material. It was a dream come true when Taryn, my former sketch director turned friend, offered to take it on. I put the show in Taryn’s capable and very talented hands, and off we went. Taryn also just so happens to be an EdFringe veteran (and University of St Andrews alumna) so we began working on it last summer knowing that Fringe was one of our biggest goals.

Dolphin Mode premiered in August of 2024 to a sold out audience at Caveat in New York City. It went on to sell out The Second City Blackbox in November of 2024 as part of the New York Comedy Festival and headlined Knockouts Comedy Festival in March of 2025. I’m ecstatic to be making my Edinburgh Fringe premier with Dolphin Mode this summer.

Next steps – taping this thing to sell, baby! We would love to see the show get picked up by a streamer and get as many eyes on it as possible.

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

Dylan Adler: House of Dy-lan. Dylan is one of those comics who never fails to make me laugh out loud. I think I audibly snorted at his last show. I can’t wait to see this new show of his. If I’m having a bad day during the Fringe, it will be my cure, and it will be yours too!

Cat Cohen: Broad Strokes. Cat is a generational talent and every show I’ve seen of hers has been incredible. She’s one of those artists that makes you want to be a better artist. Hardest working woman in showbiz!

I have too many to plug!!!

Maria Mainelli: Fly Trap

Liz Coin: Lizzy Sunshine

Syd King: Saint Sydney

Sophie Zucker: Taste

Nick Hornedo: Watch This When You Get Home

Ismael Loutfi: Heavenly Baba

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