“I would not have expected myself to be here a year ago. I’ll admit I applied on a whim with no expectations and I let the universe do the rest.”
WHO: Gabrielle Leonore
WHAT: “An “inspirational porn” star, Gabrielle Leonore shares her life story in this irreverent one-woman comedy, filled with candid anecdotes about sex, drugs, and the aspects of life no one prepares you for – especially as an autistic woman. Written and performed by Leonore, the show builds on the success of her previous production, (Re)union, which won the Social Good Award at the 2019 Tampa International Fringe Festival and was also featured in the 2019 Tampa Bay Theater Festival.”
WHERE: Just the Snifter Room at Just the Tonic at The Mash House (Venue 288)
WHEN: 20:35 (60 min)
MORE: Click Here!
Is this your first time to Edinburgh?
Yes! This is my first time ever in Edinburgh—let alone Europe—and honestly, it feels surreal that my show is a part of the biggest performance arts festival in the world. To be honest, I would not have expected myself to be here a year ago. I’ll admit I applied on a whim with no expectations and I let the universe do the rest. I’m excited to immerse myself in a new culture, explore the city’s rich history, and witness performances from all walks of life, and have the adventure of a lifetime.
As a producer, I feel incredibly privileged to invest in and believe in my team—and to bring this show to Edinburgh with my best friend Mitch by my side makes it all the more meaningful. We’re doing something every artist dreams of, and I’m proud to say we’re making it our reality.
What are the big things you’ve learned since 2024 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned since 2024 is the importance of who you surround yourself with. There’s that quote—you are the average of the five people you spend the most time with—and over time, it couldn’t be more true. At the end of the day, everyone you interact with is a mirror of yourself. So if you don’t like your reflection, simply change the mirror. I’ve also learned to do honest audits of my relationships. If the people around you aren’t choosing to grow with you, there’s nowhere to go together. It’s not just about being chosen—it’s about choosing yourself, too.
As cliché as it may sound, we only get one life, and spending energy on people who are uncertain or stagnant will only hold you back.
These were far from easy lessons to learn, but I know each decision I’ve made has brought me closer to where I’m meant to be. One day, I’ll be proud of how far I have come.
Tell us about your show.
I’m the writer, producer, and performer of My Life as an “Inspirational Porn” Star—a raw, stand-up comedy/burlesque show based on my real life as, well, an “Inspirational Porn” star. I share candid anecdotes about sex, love, and drugs—especially through the lens of being an autistic bisexual woman.
The show is produced by Feeling Inspired Productions, which I co-founded with my best friend and collaborator Mitch Sims. We launched the company to not only develop our own original work, but to uplift the voices of neurodivergent and marginalized women who are so often overlooked.
The production premiered at the Tampa International Fringe Festival this past June, where it won both the Social Good Award and Social Media Slayer Award. It was actually my second time winning the Social Good Award—since my first production (Re)union back in 2019.
After Edinburgh, I plan to continue touring the show through North American festivals—though I’d love to bring it to more venues across Europe and beyond. I also plan on making my show into a published memoir as well.
What should your audience see at the festivals after they’ve seen your show?
After my show, you should see Furniture Boys by Emily Weitzman at Underbelly George Square. She’s another brilliant writer-performer from Florida—so you know I’ve got to represent and support my peers! It’s important to uplift other women artists, and Emily’s work is smart, bold, and full of heart. You don’t want to miss it.
Here are some other acts I’m looking forward to checking out at Edinburgh:
@destheray (Desiree Burch) is doing The Golden Wrath, and she’s funny, smart, totally commanding. Just my type.
@mollymcguinness_’s show Slob is so funny and raw, like in a way that makes you feel seen and slightly called out, which is exactly what you want in an Edinburgh Fringe show.
If you like your comedy unhinged and covered in fake blood, who doesn’t? Check out @joekentwalters’s Frankie Monroe: DEAD!!! is the show for you.
@uroojashfaq is doing How to Be a Baddie and it’s just… incredible. I laughed, I felt feelings, I can’t wait to it.
And @lorntreen’s 24 Hour Diner People is like stepping into a fever dream staffed entirely by weird little gremlins—and I mean that in the best way possible.
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