Tag Archives: EdFringe

EdFringe Talk: Louise Atkinson: She’s Got the Look

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

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“I’m a big believer that what truly makes a great festival is the ratio of food trucks selling potato and/or chicken based products to the amount of shows available.”

WHO: Louise Atkinson

WHAT: “With this new comedy show, the Amused Moose Best Debut Show winner revisits the unsolicited feedback she once received; ‘Louise Atkinson – sounds good, looks like a mess’; and discusses our incorrect assumptions about people. ‘Reminiscent of Victoria Wood and Peter Kay’ (Stuart Maconie). ‘Her innate funny bones reassure you that you’re in safe hands’ (Chortle.co.uk). ‘An instantly likeable comic’ **** (TheArtsDesk.com). ***** (TheWeeReview.com). **** (BroadwayBaby.com). **** (EdFringeReview.com). **** (MervSpotFringe.com).”

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

WHEN: 17:00 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

No, I believe the official amount is…umpteenth, but I never was good at counting. It’s my second hour, that number I’m sure of.

Any arts festival’s success is based on 2 very crucial components; the audience and the artist. As long as both of them are up for it and enjoying themselves, everything else is secondary. Oh and I’m a big believer that what truly makes a great festival is the ratio of food trucks selling potato and/or chicken based products to the amount of shows available. Which is probably why the Edinburgh fringe is one of the most successful arts festivals in the world.

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

So I learned one of the most valuable life lessons I think I will ever learn which is, you can get the mould out of grouting using paper towels and bleach. Honestly, I’ve never been happier. Have I absorbed that lesson? Yes, but you know who also has absorbed that lesson? The little bit of silicone sealant that sits round my bath. Absolutely buzzing about it to be totally honest.

Tell us about your show.

Yes, of course. So the producer is -me, director-me, writer-me (but wearing a hat), performer-me, person who’s bought the snacks – me, I don’t want to be self involved, but I believe I play a key part in this show.

I try to explore the absurdity of making assumptions about people based on their physical appearance when really we should be judging them based on their biscuit preferences, it’s very high brow as you can probably tell.

I’ve taken the show for a few preview spots and some lovely other festivals up and down the country, which I like doing, get’s me out the house and that.

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

I mean, what an absolute treat you have this year.

Hannah Platt – an absolute master of deadpan comedy and some of the smartest, wittiest jokes you are going to here.

Aaron Twitchen – I refuse to believe anyone can’t have fun at his show. He’s hilarious, highly energetic, sparkles more than the sun itself and just knows how to put on a fun show.

Amy Mason – Amy is just an exceptionally gifted comedy writer and performer and her story of coming out later in life whilst still married to a man…..not going to lie, some big laughs.

Chelsea Birkby – such a wonderful mash-up of wit and charm with Chelsea, it’s her second hour and her first one was brilliant, so you are in for such a treat with the second

Si Beckwith – Si’s show is all about trying to navigate life as a step-parent. It’s already had a load of well deserved aclaim, but it’s smart and incredibly funny.

Rachel Fairburn – Rach is obviously an exceptional comedian, I don’t think I need to state how talented she is here, but this year she is doing a character based show and honestly, it’s top notch. Get yourself there with a glass of wine and brace to have your sides hurt from laughing.

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EdFringe Talk: Graham Kay: Pete and Me

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“There is nothing else out there besides my show explaining how non disabled siblings are affected by their disabled siblings. Both negatively AND positively.”

WHO: Graham Kay

WHAT: “Kay’s Pete and Me uses cheerful humour to talk about growing up with his profoundly autistic brother, exploring their relationship from childhood through today. From daily calls pretending to be Bert and Ernie to Graham getting arrested and his brother hanging up on the cops. Underneath heartfelt anecdotes and witty punchlines, Graham (The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert) is ultimately confronting his life’s biggest fears while providing a space for the conversations we rarely get the chance to have. ‘Brilliantly funny’ (Huffington Post). ‘An awesome comedian’ (Nate Bargatze).”

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

WHEN: 18:20 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

This is my first time at the Fringe festival but not my first time in Edinburgh. However, I’ve never SEEN Edinburgh because I spent the only day I was there in Jail for punching a mime who said something racist towards Canadians. Our people have been through enough! Now sure, the mime didn’t technically speak but they were being VERY suggestive.

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

My big lesson from last year is that my ex wife Carroll is NOT to be trusted with my life savings. Now her and her new boi toy Frederico are living in a house that I PAID FOR!!??

Tell us about your show.

But seriously folks, most resources for families of autistic people are depressing. I wanted to make something that shows there’s good times and fun too. My show was written by me and premiered Off Broadway in NYC last year. The show came together when fans of my podcast “Autastic- A Comedians Guide to Autism” wanted to see a live show. There is nothing else out there besides my show explaining how non disabled siblings are affected by their disabled siblings. Both negatively AND positively.

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

Go see Two Sailors That Are Nuts by Chris Locke and Sean Cullen. Individually, both their styles encapsulate the Canadian style of absurdist irreverent humour. I’m excited to see what it looks like when you put them together.

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EdFringe Talk: Derek Mitchell: Double Dutch

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“I saw some of my favourite comedy acts ever for the first time up at the Edinburgh Fringe (Colin Hoult, Diane Chorley, Lolly Adefope), and they have been blowing my mind ever since!”

WHO: Derek Mitchell

WHAT: “Debut hour of stand-up and characters from the ‘out-and-out hilarious’ (Stage) Derek Mitchell (Ted Lasso), whose online sketches have generated over 250 million views and a dedicated following. Right off the back of a 44-date European tour, the show is about the journey from being an outsider to a sort-of insider, and making sense of all the cultural nonsense and confusion in between. ‘The biggest laughs of the night’ (TheArtsDesk.com). ‘Outstanding’ (Oxford Mail).”

WHERE: Pleasance Courtyard – Baby Grand (Venue 33) 

WHEN: 22:50 (60 min)

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Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

No! This is my sixth Edinburgh Fringe if you can even believe that! I have always done it in the past as part of either a student group or sketch duo (Horseplay, with Kathy Maniura). This is my first time as a solo act.

The Fringe is special because shows that push the envelope in their form, style and genre are the norm, and they’re the thing that everyone’s most excited to see. That makes it especially exciting for people who like stuff that pushes the envelope. I saw some of my favourite comedy acts ever for the first time up at the Edinburgh Fringe (Colin Hoult, Diane Chorley, Lolly Adefope), and they have been blowing my mind ever since!

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

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that the things that make you funny you already have in you, and have always had in you. Anything you write or add to a bit or a show because it’s what you think people will want to be seeing and hearing will eventually have to come right back out, if you want your show to be truthful and good.

Sometimes that might also be part of the process – whittling down ideas to their barest and most essentially funny parts. But I have found consistently in this process that actually just doing stuff that comes second nature to me is what people want to see me do the most. I think I am still actively absorbing this.

Tell us about your show.

My show, Derek Mitchell: Double Dutch, is me doing standup, characters and sketches about some of the things I’ve learned about as an immigrant: Dutch stuff, British stuff, American stuff, accents, politeness, and what it’s like being stuck in between. I wrote it and have been developing it across work-in-progress shows around the EU and the UK since February.

I’m working with John-Luke Roberts on the show – he’s directing it – and my Dutch husband Tim has also helped me develop it from the beginning. Impatient are producing it up at Pleasance at the Fringe, which will be its premiere in the UK. Impatient came and saw a very sloppy preview of my other show, an alt character hour called Goblin, back in January and they very kindly believed in me enough to put me on their roster with Double Dutch.

If people enjoy it in Edinburgh, I hope to take it around the UK, and I’ll continue to tour it around the EU and beyond!

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

You should see so many peoples’ shows! My friends Katie Norris, Amy Annette, Jin Hao Li, Sarah Roberts, Jo Griffin, Amy Mason, Lara Ricote, Chris Hall, Zoe Brownstone and Erika Ehler are all going to have shows that will make you pee in your pants from laughing. And there are SO many more that I have not named here in this micro, momentary brain dump!

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EdFringe Talk: The Kids Might Die (A Tale Told By an Idiot)

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“The feeling of producing a show alongside hundreds of other passionate, daring, often-somewhat-insane artists is unlike anything else I’ve experienced, and I cannot wait to do so in the birthplace of Fringe!”

WHO: Jill Young

WHAT: “The kids of Little Stars Youth Theatre are excited to bring you their production of Macbeth. But when an emergency broadcast announces the incoming end of the world, the young cast evacuates, leaving only their director behind. The show must go on… right? This comedic solo piece explores the paradox of live performance in a seemingly doomed world. As Jill attempts to save the show, it devolves into an anxiety spiral on death and identity, featuring an epic guitar solo and Heelys.”

WHERE: Greenside @ George Street – Mint Studio (Venue 236) 

WHEN: 23:15 (55 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

This is my first time to Edinburgh! I debuted this show as part of the 2023 Hollywood Fringe, in part to determine whether this was indeed the project to dedicate my time, energy, and money to transporting internationally. After a sold out run in Hollywood and successful runs at the LA Solofest, San Diego Fringe, Denver Fringe, and San Francisco Playground Solofest, I’ve been decidedly bit by the festival bug. The feeling of producing a show alongside hundreds of other passionate, daring, often-somewhat-insane artists is unlike anything else I’ve experienced, and I cannot wait to do so in the birthplace of Fringe!

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

2023 was a wild year for me– I put up my solo show for the first time, experienced major change and heartbreak, and got a life-changing surgery. Plus my frontal cortex finished developing, and I can now legally rent a car in the US (I turned 25.) While I’d like to say these experiences converged into one crystal-clear immediately applicable lesson, the truth is I’m still trying to figure out what any of it means. Young adulthood thus far has only increased in its chaotic unpredictability. Perhaps the biggest thing I’ve learned is that I am far more resilient than I give myself credit for; I tend to think of myself as fearful and rather weak— but I have been consistently surprised by the courage and grit I’ve found in the face of changing circumstances. This is especially true in my art– two years ago I would’ve been petrified to do a show where I talk about being gay and having OCD, and here I am doing just that. In 2024, I am working to channel the braver, stronger parts of me, now that I know they exist.

Tell us about your show.

I wrote my show over the course of about six months, and then started working with director Calliope Weisman in January of 2023. Calliope and I are childhood friends who reconnected via a serendipitous run-in in the audience of a comedy show in November of 2022. We instantly matched each other’s energy, and got to work. Since then, we’ve brought our team together– Em Bolka producing and sound design, Kye Aragon with prop/set design, Millie Reed with lighting design, and Denim Weisman with graphic design. I am insanely lucky to work with a team of talented creatives who also happen to be my dear friends. So far, we’ve traveled to several festivals across the US. This will be our international debut! We won an award at the San Diego Fringe that is sponsoring us to go to the New Zealand Fringe in 2025, and I’m very excited to continue this tour next year.

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

There are so many amazing artists I’m lucky to know who are joining me in Edinburgh this year, including Mark Vigeant (The Best Man Show), Alex Kern (Thank You So Much For Coming), and Olivia Atwood (Faking It). I’ve seen each of these shows, and can confirm that they are not only brilliant and hilarious, but also created by incredibly kind, generous, wonderful people.

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EdFringe Talk: Mark T Cox: Paddy Daddy

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

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“I’m so excited to come back now, fully formed and ready to go! And… with some new, very tight leather trousers.”

WHO: Mark T Cox

WHAT: “An Irish Gay Guide to Romance. A juicy hour of comedy, filth and pop bangers from very busy, very famous, international cabaret star Mark T Cox. If you enjoy Irish charm. If you enjoy naughty queer comedy. If you enjoy looking at a handsome man with a moustache and leather trousers… You will enjoy this show. ‘Bit rude for my liking’ (Mark’s mam).”

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

WHEN: 22:40 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

I dipped my little toes into Edinburgh back in 2019. I came for one week, took part in a few casual shows as part of the free fringe, and was just overwhelmed and mesmerised by the whole thing. It was so inspiring. I remember seeing fab shows from people like Reuben Kaye, Harry Clayton-Wright, and Frisky and Mannish, and I was determined to be there the following year and make myself seen.

I then scurried back to London and started getting my plans in order for the 2020 festival. I wrote a very silly and hilarious show and got accepted to a very nice venue. But… then the world collapsed and sadly it wasn’t meant to be.

I’m so excited to come back now, fully formed and ready to go! And… with some new, very tight leather trousers.

And to be VERY honest, I hadn’t a clue what I was doing back in 2020. Lol. Since then, I’ve had some really excellent years working on the comedy and cabaret scene in London and abroad. It feels like the right time to tackle Edinburgh.

He’s raring to go!

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

I’ve been so lucky to work all over the place in 2023. I’ve been doing shows across the world, cabaret lounges in Brussels, queer bars in Tokyo, festivals in Ireland… and my beloved dingy basements in East London.

I’ve found really nice balance between comedy and cabaret in the past year, landing on a performance style I think is really unique. I’m not always entirely sure what I’m doing, or how I’m doing it, but people seem to love it, so let’s not question it.

Since 2023, I’ve had to learn to adapt and flex to so many bizarre performance situations – performing for international crowds who often haven’t a clue about my little Irish humour, performing for very serious corporate delegations and government events, and in every physical space imaginable.

It’s all a struggle and headache, but makes you very good at throwing the worries away and just adapting to whats in front of you. I think this really plays into my comedy and hosting style – I’ve faced every interruption and distraction possible. He’s ready for anything at this stage.

Tell us about your show.

My show is called Paddy Daddy. A whistle stop tour of my many (MANY) homosexual affairs in the west of Ireland.

A blow by blow account.

Written by me, Mark T Cox. Produced by me, Mark T Cox. Directed, curated, marketed, performed and adored by me, Mark T Cox.

I’m a one-man production house. Which honestly is a dream. I love making things happen and being involved in ever little detail. Now, many many people have warned me it’s impossible to do it all, but I’m a stubborn gay man. So I’m here to prove them wrong.

(I may have a very different view on this by the end of August, lol).

It’s a one-man comedy show, with some lovely surprises of piano, live singing, nostalgic pop songs and some charming and heartbreaking original songs. It’s a lot to squeeze into one hour!

It’s a blend of scripted theatre, live comedy and cabaret hosting. The show looks at queer life in the countryside, the struggles and inventiveness of the rural gays. It’s hilarious, and devastating. I’m very proud of it.

You’ll love it.

Edinburgh will be first proper run of PADDY DADDY. We’ve had a few previews in London, but it’s going to be fab to get it settled on a stage for a full month, before HOPEFULLY heading off on a UK and Irish tour in 2025.

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

I’m huge fan of the queers and the girlies! And there are millions to choose from.

Shane Daniel Byrne is coming over from Dublin with his comedy show ‘Trouble Denim’. Shane is ALL OVER the comedy scene and TV in Ireland. It’s an absolute joy to see Irish stars come thrive here in the UK.

Sinead O’Brien of Wandering Stories / Fair Play Productions is back with a new show called ‘Hero/Banlaoch’. Sinead and I started performing together 5,000 years ago in tiny theatres in Dublin. And now she travels the world with her storytelling, blending intense personal stories with magical and mythical tales from ancient Ireland. It’s truly unique and wonderful to listen to.

For the late night queers, I’ll see you at the Big Gay Afterparty. A big old camp collection of cabaret, drag and music acts, brought together by RGB Monster and Aidan Sadler. There might even be a special guest appearance from a very famous Mark T Cox some night, in the afore mentioned very tight leather trousers.

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EdFringe Talk: Gruoch: Lady Macbeth

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

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“As a producer, and particularly as a solo performer, the whole experience rests on your shoulders- mine are pretty weak and I’m allergic to flyering so that’s a balance I desire, but haven’t achieved yet!”

WHO: Caroline Burns Cooke

WHAT: “Gruoch is a feminist, myth-centred examination of the bereaved and abused girl who became Lady Macbeth as an act of revenge for the death of her father. She did indeed manipulate Macbeth to kill Duncan, but not through vaulting ambition… this “icon of evil” may be the power behind the throne, but as the only woman left alive, her power is used to avenge. A new solo performance, written by David Calcutt and performed by award-winning actor Caroline Burns Cooke.”

WHERE: Hill Street Theatre – Dunedin Theatre (Venue 117) 

WHEN: 15:30 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

This is probably my 20th time at the fringe as a performer, fourth as solo performer; add another dozen as audience. It can be both an amazing, and daunting, experience in both guises but ultimately I still feel if you haven’t done the show in Edinburgh, you haven’t really done the show!
Going as an audience is obviously a lot less stressful but the angst of missing out makes it unbearable too, so I’m hoping to achieve a bit of both this year. As a producer, and particularly as a solo performer, the whole experience rests on your shoulders- mine are pretty weak and I’m allergic to flyering so that’s a balance I desire, but haven’t achieved yet!

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

This is my fourth self-produced solo show after And the Rope Still Tugging Her Feet; 2016, Proxy; 2018, Testament of Yootha; 2019. So my main learning is how to take care of myself over a whole fringe. Previously I’ve done that by booking a well known venue, an early slot- by midday- so I can relax for the rest of the day, and hiring a flyerer.

This is my first year back post the pandemic, breast cancer and COPD, with a show written not by me, but for me by the amazing David Calcutt, and I’m doing seven shows in the smaller but beautifully formed Hill Street 41 from the 12th-18th at 3.30. A little late for me, but I’ll cope. And they’ve got a flyering team!

Tell us about your show.

My two first solo shows were written by me and directed by Colin Watkeys who, among other great solo performers, has worked with Ken Campbell, Claire Dowie and Jack Klaff. These were under the auspices of Face to Face, his company. My third show was directed by Mark Farrelly and I went under my own company name, Burns Unit.

I worked as an actor on David Calcutt’s Descent for The Midland’s Actors Company and he wrote this amazing feminist reclaiming of the real Lady MacBeth for me. Ill health held up the process, but Colin agreed to direct again-he prefers to work on performer’s own scripts- as he thinks the script could have been written by me as it encompasses my passions and themes completely! So here we are. I did script in hand performances at Prague and Dundee Fringes in 2023, and premiered with Sweet Venues in Brighton Fringe this year. Buxton next, in July, then one week in Edinburgh. Then it will be a Real Play!

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

You must see Ada Campe’s Big Duck Energy at the Stand. She is the amazing creation of Naomi Paxton and I swear I wasn’t keen on character comedy before I fell in Love with Ada, who is so much more than that. Treat yourself!

Also the never to be missed Sarah-Louise Young, both in the sublime An Evening Without Kate Bush-again, never see shows more than once, seen in THREE times. Brilliant, moving and what a voice! Assembly, I think! Also, I’ll be Your Tribute at the Voodoo Rooms, which I just saw in preview. Such a lovely, non scarily, interactive show with ALL your favourite tunes.

I missed Lubna Kerr’s Tick Box, so I am NOT missing Chatterbox at The Pleasance. If it’s anything like her, it’s warm, wonderful, Scottish/Pakistani comedy storytelling. What more could you want?

And last but not etc the fabulous Lottie Walker/Blue Fire TC- a big hit with Marie Lloyd stole my life now wowing NY with Chopped Liver and Unions telling the story of Sara Wesker with song and aplomb. Greenside, and the brilliant Mary Bourke at the Stand, amazing incisive stand up, all delivered with a deceptively soft Irish purr…

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EdFringe Talk: Bob Marley: How Reggae Changed the World

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“The inspiration I have gotten from the past 3 years of going to the fringe can`t really be measured.”

WHO: Duane Forrest

WHAT: “Join Duane Forrest on an acoustic journey through the roots of reggae to the global influence of Bob Marley. Experience acoustic renditions of legendary reggae songs that have reshaped countless lives, including Duane’s own. From the origin of reggae to Marley’s transcendent legacy, immerse yourself in the soulful melodies and transformative power of this iconic music. Audience members are invited to sing along and get involved in this interactive musical experience.”

WHERE: ZOO Playground – Playground 1 (Venue 186) 

WHEN: 21:30 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

No, this is actually my 4th time! Every year I complain how difficult it is – only surfing is more difficult than putting a show on at the fringe – but, I keep coming back. I love it. There is something even greater than the struggles of putting a show on, the debt accumulated. Connecting with performers and creators from literally all around the world, being inspired by their work, sharing nuggets with each other from our separate journeys and seeing that we all are walking similar roads in a way – this is what makes it magical being at the Fringe. It`s what makes it worth it.

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

That less is certainly more. That flyering 4 hours a day destroys me, but seeing more shows from around the world fills me. The inspiration I have gotten from the past 3 years of going to the fringe can`t really be measured. It’s expanded my mind, pushed me to my limits and help me break out of my own boxes. Reviews are another great way to go, each year when you bring work (hopefully) a reviewer comes to see your work, and I have been able to use that feedback to tweak my shows and get them in the best shape they can be.

Tell us about your show.

Bob Marley: How Reggae Changed the World is not just a tribute show, it’s actually the story of how reggae came to be and how Bob was instrumental in bringing it to the world, but also how he helped me connect back with my roots. I am a Jamaican-Canadian born and raised in Toronto, Canada. It was weird growing up, he helped me find my way.

I wrote and perform the show. This piece came together from me noticing that after I performed some of Bob’s songs and spoke to audiences afterwards about them, I found out that they did not actually know some key stories behind the music, the history of Jamaica and what the heart of reggae is.

I have been invited to perform the show in Taiwan at Kaohsiung Weiwuying + Taitung Arts Festival August 28 – September 3rd, 2024! I am so over the moon with this news!

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

Steve Porters presents How To Mate by Daisy Doris May, a very dope drag king show! I`ve seen a sneak peak of the show in London before they bring it to the fringe and you`ll love it.

Dark Noon is a perfect example of why theatre exists – I have never been so impacted by work on stage like I was during that show! I can`t describe more of it without ruining the experience, but trust me, it is special. You will literally laugh, cry, question your own politics and world view. Go see it!

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EdFringe Talk: Making Marx

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“The basic rules have not changed. Bring up your best work. Don’t dream… do. Remember that your work is for your audience, not you. And don’t believe your own hype!”

WHO: Guy Masterson

WHAT: “Jenny Marx, wife (and brains!) of Karl, was curiously airbrushed from history… Although, given a new voice via a researcher’s pen, will she now fight for her truth to be heard, or will yet another formidable woman remain trapped between the lines of history books, silenced by the patriarchy, and occupy outdated notions of what society insists she should be? Commedia dell’arte trained Clara Francesca is directed by Olivier Award winner Guy Masterson, in an astounding performance that nods to Luigi Pirandello and winks at Peter Brook.”

WHERE: Assembly Rooms – Drawing Room (Venue 117) 

WHEN: 11:35 (60 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

No. This is my 30th season, my first being 1994 (obviously!). I have produced or presented over 120 shows up there, with the exception of 5, all at Assembly. I have had my ups and downs, but many of these shows went on to an afterlife, some to the West End, one to Broadway. Many were hits of the Fringe. Many were not! My own solo shows premiered in Edinburgh and then toured thousands of performances around the world.

The basic rules have not changed. Bring up your best work. Don’t dream… do. Remember that your work is for your audience, not you. And don’t believe your own hype!

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

Despite the problems, Edinburgh is still probably the best place to get justified recognition for your work for less than it would cost you to do it elsewhere. Audiences and critics are more forgiving… and are there to experience it. The big lesson is don’t get swindled by unscrupulous landlords!

Tell us about your show.

Making Marx was written and performed by the brilliant Clara Francesca who invited me to see it in 2019. It was still a work in progress and we decided that we would hone the work together in her native Italy after the Fringe. We tightened the key story points, highlighted the brilliance of her performance and clever writing, simplified the title and created Making Marx – the story of the woman and brains behind Karl Marx, without whom, we might not have the ideal of socialism to contrast the corrupt ideals of greedy Capitalism!

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

You might like to come along and see the two solo works that I first performed in Edinburgh in 1994 and 1995 – ‘Under Milk Wood’ and ‘Animal Farm’ – both at The Pleasance EICC at 6pm on August 14th and 18th respectively. These are to epic classic titles which reflect my own ideals and performance style, the success of which gave me the chance to expand my horizons and tour the world, thereby meeting incredible, like-minded artistes whom I then brought to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival over the next years and who, through their wonderful, award winning work, made me look clever!

Also, come and see the brilliant Victoria Mature in cabaret, telling the story of her Hollywood Hunk dad, Victor Mature! Not to be missed!

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EdFringe Talk: Josephine Lacey: Autism Mama

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“Being at the Edfringe means that I get to live and breathe comedy all day long.”

WHO: Josephine Lacey

WHAT: “Most mothers expect to help guide their child through puberty. But when your son is autistic, it’s a whole different story. Welcome to Josephine’s world. Expect visual aids, balloons, and a heartwarming insight into the relationship between mother and son, both determined to figure it out together. From Chortle’s One To Watch (2023) and Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year nominee (2023). ‘A comedy bombshell, just light the blue touch-paper and watch the mirth erupt’ (BBC).”

WHERE: Pleasance Courtyard – Bunker Three (Venue 33) 

WHEN: 18:00 (60 min)

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Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

I have visited the city of Edinburgh several times since 2010. It’s such a beautiful city. Sometimes, I just walk along the streets admiring the architecture. I love being around the different art forms during the Edfringe. What I love most, is the buzz and the vibe of the people enjoying the festival and the wonderful city.

As a performer, being at the Edfringe means that I get to live and breathe comedy all day long whilst I’m there. I’m just a stand-up comedian! I can step out of sharing my day with all my other daily responsibilities. I find it cathartic. It also allows me to see acts that I do not get to work with often or at all because geographically, we are based all over the world. At the Edfringe, we are all in one place.

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

I’ve learnt more than ever in the last year, that I should never give up on myself. I mean, I have never done so, but the last year has taught me, it’s never too late to keep working towards what I believe can happen and what I can achieve. I have aspirations today that I did not have a year and a half ago.

Tell us about your show.

Autism Mama is a show I wrote after I supported my autistic son through his pubescent changes and development. I’m delighted to be working in collaboration with Soho Theatre on the production of the show. We started our working relationship, after their assistant comedy producer, Dimple Pau saw a performance of the show in its earliest form as a work in progress. Autism Mama then premiered at Soho Theatre.

I have grand plans for the show. Not only is it funny, but also insightful, and a loving tale. Feedback from parents and carers of autistic children, teachers and governors from SEN schools who have seen the show, have encouraged me to bring the show to bigger venues and platforms other than comedy clubs. For me, the most heartfelt feedback has come from people who do not have a relationship with autism. They feel as though they have left my show with an understanding that they did not have before as well as being able to laugh. I look forward to seeing my show in book form.

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

What should my audience see after my show?

WOW! There is so much to see. Here’s a few shows you will see me at!

1.295 Reframing Autistic Success (Kitten Steps): I am definitely one to champion neurodiversity in the arts. Stags 2023 was a sell out and I for one can not wait to see this!

Daddy Autism: Joe Wells is a great comic and is autistic and wants to be a daddy. Go find out how he intends on doing that.

Baby Belle: Young, Dumb and Full of Autism: Whimsical and musical! An exploration of social versus personal identity from the perspective of an autistic person. There’s also a song about cats!

Larry Dean: Dodger: He’s my son from another mother. He’s a great son from another mother. He’s a hilarious son from another mother. He’s charming, superbly funny and daft! I love him and I’m proud of him.

Stories from the Office of a Sex Dungeon: By the fantastic and underestimated Katharyn Henson. To fund her start up in stand-up comedy in New York City, Katharyn worked as a manager in a BDSM dungeon. Can you just imagine the tales? Don’t imagine the tales, just go see the show and hear the tales for yourself. Bring a gimp ball if you want to.

Little Pickle: Pol-ish: A Pol-ish drag clown who has lots to say about lots of things. A clown not to fear. Absurd and brutally honest. See you there!

Erika Ehler: I Got Some Dope Ass Memories With People That I’ll Never F*ck With Again: If you love Frankie Boyle, you’re going to love Erika. If you don’t love Frankie Boyle, you’re still going to love Erika. Nuff said. Except, I wouldn’t f*ck with her!

Demi Adejuyigbe Is Going To Do One (1) Backflip: Why should you go see this show? Because he’s my flatmate at the Edfringe….and he’s doing that one (1) backflip! Go see the backflip. You don’t want to miss that one backflip. He’s also funny!

Nina Conti: Whose Face Is It Anyway? You know who she is, but just in case you didn’t realise she was at the Edfringe this year, now you know. Get your ticket because she will sell out because she’s hilarious! Pleasance Grand.

Elliot Steel: Soft Boi Core: Elliot had a smash hit show last year. I’m guessing he’ll have another one this year. Known for his biting wit and trademark dark sense of humour, I find Elliot a breath of fresh air.

Michelle Shaughnessy: Too Late, Baby: A show for anyone who thinks it’s too late to achieve their dream, because it probably is.

Ben Target: LORENZO: Ben returns with his award winning show. If you missed it the first time round, then go see him this year at the Pleasance Dome.

Catherine Bohart: Again, with feelings. She’s hilarious. Just go see her!

Phil Ellis: Come On and Take The Rest of Me: Phil had the best of runs at last year’s Edfringe festival. Best show nominee and winner of the Malcolm Hardee Award for comic originality. Phil is back with an hour of pure and unapologetic stand-up comedy

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EdFringe Talk: Bluffing Your Way in Ballet

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2024 by

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“Our producer Alex, an ex-professional ballerina wants to pass her knowledge and experiences, which are her heritage, on to younger people.”

WHO: Kay Francksen

WHAT: “Bluffing Your Way in Ballet pirouettes its fast-paced and irreverent way through the history of ballet. Whizz with us beyond the tutu with stories and dances from the ballet greats, including Isadora Duncan, Václav Nijinsky and Margot Fonteyn. Never heard of them but love ballet? You’ll be in safe hands! The company will perform, in avant-garde fashion, the intrigue, tragedy and magic of ballet’s greatest stars, past and present. Our ballerina Alexandra danced with The Royal Ballet and with some of these ballet stars. She’s delighted to share her knowledge and experiences with you.”

WHERE: theSpace @ Venue45 – theSpace @ Venue 45 (Venue 117) 

WHEN: 15:05 (45 min)

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Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

It is our first time at the Fringe. It seems mad as we’re a mature company, but we wanted to be a part of this world-renowned, diverse, international festival while we still can! Make way for the oldies! We devised a show during 2023 which tells ballet’s story from the Renaissance to now, not as a lecture but in an amusing and sometimes crazy way. Our producer Alex, an ex-professional ballerina wants to pass her knowledge and experiences, which are her heritage, on to younger people. Most of us are in our twilight years but still fit and able to help her to do this. We have had sold-out shows in Bristol and our audience feedback shows that the public is curious about the fantastical history of ballet and its many eccentric characters.

We want to tell our story in a concise and zappy way and experience the wonder that is the Edinburgh Fringe. We will be out there, in our tutus, displaying our wobbly bits and enjoying every minute. Carpe diem init?!

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

We have learned that we can do it and we absolutely have to do it now! We are not getting any younger! We are a relentless bunch of older/ancient performers. Our star ballerina is 75 years old. We have a wealth of energy and experience to bring to the stage (as well as flatulence and snacks). Seriously though, if not now, when? Our public keep coming back for more, so let’s share our show more widely. We already have our bus passes so why not add Festival passes?

Tell us about your show.

The show was devised and written by all of us. We each researched and wrote about our particular characters, who had been previously selected in a rough outline presented by Alex, who is also producing and performing in the show. We have plundered many personal experiences from Alex’s career. It came together over a year of trial and error. We finished up with a longer version of this show which we took around Bristol and Bath. We were surprised, delighted and encouraged by audience feedback:

“I was a bit concerned that it might not have been quite what my friends were expecting but they were most impressed and very interested… the history of ballet was discussed all the way back to Horfield on the no. 75 bus!”

When Alex said she wanted to take Bluffing to the Fringe we readily agreed to let her do most of the work but then relented and set to rejigging it into its present form with the creative guidance of our Director, Amanda Horlock. Alex has started negotiations with Birmingham Royal Ballet and the Royal Ballet School, with whom she has maintained connections. In the long run the aim is to take it to other dance and actors’ classes and community schools, together with a simple preshow workshop which we also offered with the previous show. We saw how this appealed to both young and old and in particular those with special needs. It seemed to free their imagination and gave them the confidence and joy that we feel when we perform Bluffing Your Way In Ballet.

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

After our show we will all need a lie down but then we want to get out there in our tutus and pirouette our way along to see as many other shows as we can. If audiences have enjoyed our focus on dance and comedy, we hope they will go and see Assembly @ Dance Base – Dance Base 3, Prime and LYDC’s “Timeless” at venue 22, a lovely mix of ages in dance. Assembly and Dance Base also have many other dance shows on offer, go to: https://www.dancebase.co.uk/festival-24/

We also hope to get along to fellow Bristolians, Scaffolding, Documental Productions (Bristol Old Vic and Pleasance) dark comedy “Pleasance Dome” at Venue 23, go to: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/scaffolding

We’re also looking forward to tasting some of the other genres on offer at the smorgasbord that is the Edinburgh Fringe, such as our friends at Threedumb Theatre.

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