Tag Archives: EdFringe

EdFringe Talk: The Nature of Forgetting

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2025 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

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: Gianmarco Soresi: The Drama King Tour

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2025 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.

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: Diona Doherty: Get Your Pink Back!

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2025 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)

MORE: Click Here!

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.

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: Parker Callahan: Soda Pop

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2025 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)

MORE: Click Here!

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!

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: Britt Migs: Dolphin Mode

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2025 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)

MORE: Click Here!

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

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: Adele Cliff: Adele, Adele, Adele… Cliff It Isn’t the Consequences of My Own Actions

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2025 by

“Each year I bottle as much Scottish tap water as I can, a few more years and I think I’ll have enough to start selling it for profit in London.”

WHO: Adele Cliff

WHAT: “Adele uses her gag-heavy style and penchant for silliness to tackle the topic of lying and why we do it (or does she?) ‘Guaranteed laughs’ ***** (The Student). ‘A consummate jokesmith’ (Comedy.co.uk). ‘A sophisticated and intelligent comic with oodles of talent’ (FringeReview.co.uk). ‘Absolutely charming’ (Scotsman). ‘Knows how to keep an audience enthralled’ (SquirrelComedy.co.uk). Dave’s Funniest Jokes of the Edinburgh Fringe 2019, 2018, 2017 and 2016. UK Pun Champion 2020. Leicester Comedy award nominee – Best New Show 2023.”

WHERE: Just the Cask Room at Just the Tonic at The Mash Hou (Venue 288) 

WHEN: 17:05 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

No, this will actually be my 11th time performing at the Fringe, I can’t wait to be back, it’s always a highlight of my year.

Each year I bottle as much Scottish tap water as I can, a few more years and I think I’ll have enough to start selling it for profit in London.

I think the Edinburgh Fringe is special because it makes you feel part of such a big artistic and creative community, it feels so important to bring and present you best work whilst also allowing you to see so many other people’s shows and get inspired.

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

I think the last year has taught me I can connect people with universal yet personal experiences via my comedy and it’s been really great to be able to do this at festivals in Australia (Adelaide and Melbourne) earlier in the year and across the UK in the lead up to the Fringe.

I have also learnt that I can’t juggle knives yet and got much quicker at doing jigsaw puzzles because I love a wild night in!

Tell us about your show.

I have been writing and working on my show for about 18 months and taken it round the world to get it ready.

The show is about lying and honesty and how we use the truth when we interact with people, it’s also about regret and family and it has a whole load of very funny jokes in it that I’m really enjoying.

The show premiered at Melbourne International Comedy Festival and I can’t wait to bring it to Edinburgh.

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

I love watching other peoples shows at the Fringe, it’s so great to see everyone’s hard work paying off.

I’m especially looking forward to:
Bec Hill – who creates the funniest imagery and loves jokes about butts. (@bechillcomedian)
Sikisa – who’s brilliantly intelligent, yet relatable on so many subjects. (@sikisacomedy)

and newcomers:
Jess Carrivick – who is fantastic and engaging character comedian. (@JessCarrivick)
Robyn Reynolds – who has such a compelling and funny tale of medical incompetence.
Will Davies – who’s wonderfully silly and analytical in glorious combination.

This year I’ve made a link tree to share all the shows I’m excited about and will add even more when I see them at the Fringe.
https://linktr.ee/AdelesRecs

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: There’s Something Seriously Wrong With Cyrus

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2025 by

“No gatekeepers, no committees — just anyone with a story and the guts to perform it.”

WHO: Cyrus Deboo

WHAT: “A heartfelt and uplifting one-man show about an Indian-Persian gay man navigating the complexities of his identity. Born to immigrant parents, Cyrus takes audiences on an intimate journey of self-discovery and acceptance. Through dynamic multi media and the celebration of Madonna and Taylor Swift’s music, he finds his authentic voice and learns to embrace his cultural heritage and sexuality. With sharp humor and raw vulnerability, Cyrus shares his story of breaking free from expectations, risking authenticity, and ultimately learning to live unapologetically in his truth, celebrating the universal quest for belonging and self-love.”

WHERE: The Penny at Gilded Balloon Patter House (Venue 24) 

WHEN: 14:20 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

Yes—my first time at EdFringe, and I’m beyond excited! I’ve been dreaming about bringing There’s Something Seriously Wrong With Cyrus to Edinburgh! As an Indian-Persian gay man born to traditional immigrant parents, putting my story on that stage represents so much: visibility, celebration, and representation. Edinburgh Fringe is more than just a festival — it’s a creative explosion! It’s the world’s biggest performing-arts event with thousands of shows popping up in theatres, bars and even parks. No gatekeepers, no committees — just anyone with a story and the guts to perform it. I am excited to bring There’s Something Seriously Wrong With Cyrus, a story told to the soundtrack of my life: Madonna’s boundary-breaking energy and Taylor Swift’s unapologetic selfhood. Community, audacity, creative freedom and support! And thousands of artists and audience members passionate about the arts! Ed Fringe has it all!

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

Great question! The biggest is to prepare, prepare, prepare and then be open and embrace all the unexpected surprises! Even a moment on stage that may not go as you planned is a chance to be alive and celebrate live theatre! In a world full of curated and edited content on social media, the audience is craving live truthful connections! Also seek support and offer support to fellow artists and production team members. We are all connected and part of an incredible moment.

Tell us about your show.

My show is produced by the fantastic team at Fringe Management (Mike Blaha and Nigel Miles-Thomas and directed by Jessica Lynn Johnson of Soaring Solo Studios Inc. I was invited to see a solo show and sat next to a mystery woman who was unrelenting in pushing me to write a solo show. I had never met her before and she knew nothing about me. After the show, she persisted again and I left thinking that I had either met an angel or the devil! This led me to connect with Jessica Lynn Johnson of Soaring Solo Studios who inspired, guided and co created the show with me. I wrote the show over the course of one year and it premiere at the Hollywood Fringe Festival, where it received a Zephyr Zest Nomination and earned an encore performance. After that, the show moved on the Stars Series in LA, Orlando, United Solo Off Broadway in NYC and the Santa Monica Binge Fringe. After Edinborough I plan on taking it to college and theatre markets and back to New York City!

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

I am fortunate to call the hilarious comic Amy Veltman my friend and fringe flatmate. She has a hysterical and educational show called “PSA Pelvic Service Announcement” performing at Haldane Theatre at theSpace at Surgeons’ Hall.

I am also a fan of Yolanda Mercy, she has been involved with the show “Love Me Like A Chai Tea Latte” by Sanjay Lago. Other shows on my list are Mike Blaha’s show “International Joke”, Nigel Miles-Thomas’s show “Sherlock Holmes-The Last Act”,and “Lola’s Boyfriend” by Lauren O’Brien.

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: Charming

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2025 by

“I quit unpacking my new house so I could focus on writing Charming. The boxes can wait!”

WHO: Annie Lux

WHAT: “Cinderella wants a divorce?! Prince Charming’s already trying day is about to get worse. Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother has presented him with a list of demands that Prince Charming must agree to in order to change Cinderella’s mind. Is the Prince willing to change? Are Cinderella’s demands even reasonable? Is divorce even possible in the realm of fairytale? Can the Prince remain charming even when Cinderella’s Evil Stepmother barges in with her own list of demands? Stay tuned for the answers to these and other questions as this comedy unfolds!”

WHERE: Forest Theatre at Greenside @ George Street (Venue 236) 

WHEN: 17:20 (55 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

No, I’ve been here twice before—in 2017 and 2023—with my show The Portable Dorothy Parker. We’d done several smaller festivals with that show before we brought it to Edinburgh. We had a so much fun and got really great notices, especially in 2023. Charming, however, is brand new! It’s exciting and a little scary to be doing its first performances in Edinburgh! But there’s nowhere else like it and I’m thrilled to be back.

As playwright and producer, most of my work is done by the time we get to the festival (although of course I’m taking lots of notes). So I’ll be stagehand once the festival starts!

(Expand your answer from a simple yes or no. Eg. What’s special about Edfringe? What makes a great festival? Thoughts on festivals experienced as a producer v. experienced as a punter etc.)

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

That time and energy are precious, and to make sure I’m spending most of both doing the things that make me happiest: writing and producing plays! So yeah, I quit unpacking my new house so I could focus on writing Charming. The boxes can wait!

Tell us about your show.

I wrote it—heck, I’m still writing it (although the actors are making me stop for now). I’m also producing, along with Michael Blaha and Nigel Miles-Thomas for Fringe Management. I actually wrote the part of Prince Charming for Nigel after a conversation we had in Edinburgh in 2023. Claire Toeman is an old friend of his, and she’s perfect as the Fairy Godmother. And Margot Avery (Evil Stepmother) and Lee Costello (director) are my long-time partners and collaborators on The Portable Dorothy Parker. We have two preview performances at the Durham Fringe right before we come to Edinburgh. We don’t yet have a plan for afterward, but I’m sure we’ll make several!

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

Definitely see Nigel’s other show, Sherlock Holmes: The Last Act; he’s performed it all over the world, as well as in Edinburgh for the past few years. Audiences can’t get enough! I’m excited to see Arlene Hutton’s new play, Shake Rag Hollow. Her last play, Blood of the Lamb, did wonderfully well in Edinburgh in 2023 and won Best Play at the 2024 Adelaide (Australia) Fringe. And if you haven’t seen Oliver Harris’s Elvis and Roy Orbison shows—what are you waiting for???

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: Do All The Things

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2025 by

“We’ve stopped making sense and that feels revolutionary!”

WHO: Emma Joy Edwards

WHAT: “From the award-winning idiots behind Enter The Dragons and Witch Hunt, A and E Comedy bring you their brand new show, Do All The Things. With a playful interactive twist, this isn’t just a show, it’s an invitation to get involved, dose up on dopamine and soak up the serotonin. Part cabaret, part game show, part house party, Do All The Things is a celebration of commonality, an ode to the absurd and, at its heart, a joyous middle finger to despair and disconnection. With big prizes.”

WHERE: Checkpoint at Assembly Checkpoint (Venue 322) 

WHEN: 14:45 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

Both of us are fringe veterans of old. I did a student version of Marat/Sade, above a bus station, at Edinburgh Fringe 1987. The whole company slept in the venue and lived off snakebite and pot noodles. By the end of the run I fell asleep in the lost property cupboard, cuddled up to a stuffed sheep and some bagpipes, and missed the last show. Abigail performed in a show with a high-maintenance, scene-stealing rabbit called Mr Showbiz. She still has the scars. She was also here with clown guru Philippe Gaulier’s company in 1992. This is our third time at Edinburgh Fringe as A&E Comedy although the last time we were here was in 2019, just before Covid struck. Coming back to the Fringe now feels absolutely timely. Fringe audiences are really ready to embrace being active participants and in Do All The Things we want to celebrate the communal experience, and invite the audience to get involved. That’s the magic of the festival, in these challenging times it’s a reminder you only live once, so talk to your neighbour, collaborate, be silly and embrace community, play and the power of joy in difficult times.

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

In the last year I think we’ve all learned that you can’t make sense of anything! The world is absurd, unpredictable and you can feel powerless to do anything about it. We’ve found that joy can be a possitive act of resistance and we have made a show that for us feels like a joyous middle finger to despair and disconnection. We’re literally doing all the things we want to do on stage, from playing classic old school entertainers to staging radical performance art, to big Vegas magic and science TED talks we’ve stopped making sense and that feels revolutionary!

Tell us about your show.

The show is written and performed by Abigail Dooley and Emma Joy Edwards: We’ve been writing together for over a decade, as A&E Comedy, having bonded over our shared background being raised by fathers with strong light entertainment energy! (Abigail’s Dad hosted the OG prankster TV show Candid Camera in the 70’s, and was an agent to Larry Grayson. Emma’s Dad ran casinos and played golf with Bruce Forsyth) “Do All The Things” previewed in our home town of Brighton, and we’ve got a few Autumn dates lined up. We’re also remounting our first show Enter The Dragons, (which won Broadway Baby Bobby Best Show Brighton Fringe 2018) for a national tour next Spring.

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

For more immersive character comedy audiences should definitely check out “Daisy Doris May’s Big Night Out.”, all the fun of a stag do with our the hang over! Also for an inspiring story about collective resistance Vic Melody’s “Trouble, Struggle, Bubble and Squeak” . Vic brings her joyful, hilarious and engaging storytelling to this tale of 17th century radicals called The Diggers.  In this show she joins a historical re-enactment society, as she says “because we all deal with divorce differently”. With Mark Thomas directing this is going to be a real zinger.

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: Almost Famous

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2025 by

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

WHO: Andy Moseley

WHAT: “Emily Benton, veteran actor and star of stage and screen, is back in the UK after a career that took her to Broadway and Hollywood. With her pedigree, she should be in Downton Abbey or the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, not auditioning for a role in a devised play that only become available when another, more famous, actor went to join the theatre in the sky. What cruel fate brought her here? Maybe there’s a secret she’s not revealing. From the makers of Make-up: ‘A disarmingly truthful and humorous piece, adroitly constructed and beautifully performed’ *s]*s]*s]* (AllEdinburghTheatre.com).”

WHERE: Pleasance Online (Venue 53) 

WHEN: Theatre 2 at theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall (50 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

This is the 6th play I’ve brought to Edinburgh and 15th time I’ve been at the fringe either as a writer, director, actor, punter, reviewer or combination of the 5! It’s 21 years since I first came to the Fringe which was also the first time I’d been to Edinburgh. I fell in love with the city and the festival from the moment I arrived and 12 years later moved up here permanently. The festival has changed a lot since I first time came, but it remains a place where you can discover great independent writers and performers and see shows that you wouldn’t see anywhere else. That’s the real magic of it for me, and as a writer and director I love being part of the festival and hopefully part of the good memories audiences take away with them.

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

Not sure that I’ve learned anything since 2024. That’s what comes of having done Edinburgh and other festivals so many times before! Since the last time I brought a new play to the fringe (2022) I’ve learned to relax more and enjoy the ride – don’t worry about what happens next with the show, whatever will be will be, just have fun doing the fringe and being part of the greatest festival in the world.

Tell us about your show.

Almost Famous is a new one woman show about Emily Benton, a veteran actor with a glittering career in Broadway and Hollywood who finds herself back at the bottom of the pile after she returns to the UK. The only thing is Emily’s story may not be all its made out to be as we discover during the show. I wrote, produced and directed the show and Jac Wheble stars in it as Emily. I’ve worked with Jac on other plays and when I was looking to cast this role I asked her if she’d consider doing it. She said yes, and that was that!

We premiered the show at The Actors in Brighton as part of Brighton Fringe in May. We’re also taking it to Manchester and Buxton before the Fringe and then lining up other dates in Scotland before the end of the year and hopefully into next year.

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

Ah-Ma the new play from Cathy Lam Arts Collective. I met Cathy in 2014 when we both had shows on at Surgeon’s Hall and we’ve stayed friends since then. Her last fringe production A Funeral for my Friend who is Still Alive was brilliant and a well deserved award winner two years ago, so I’m really looking forward to the new play.

I’d also recommend Mark Vigeant: The Best Man Show which was the best show I saw last year. A solo performance that defines the phrase(s) tour-de-force and comedy masterclass, was how I described it last year, and a quote that Mark has used in his publicity this year! Great that he’s bringing the show back and has a slot at Assembly this year. Go and see it for his manic energy and fantastic imagination!

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

INTERESTED IN BEING INTERVIEWED TOO? CLICK HERE!