“The arts is still recovering from the last few years. It’s almost like starting again and the one thing that will build up momentum is supporting other artists.”
WHO: Dani
WHAT: “Taking you back to the golden age of jazz, The Easy Rollers are a roaring seven-piece jazz outfit performing hits from the speakeasy bars of the Prohibition era and beyond. Expect theatrical interludes, raucous showstoppers and some of the finest jazz this side of the Atlantic! ‘A slick, tightly choreographed hour of sizzling speakeasy from a melodious young septet’ (FringeReview.co.uk).”
WHERE: The Jazz Bar – Partially Seated (Venue 117)
WHEN: 16:00 (60 min)
MORE: Click Here!
Is this your first time to Edinburgh?
We came to Edinburgh in 2017 for our first fringe! We had no idea what to expect because our band had been based in Manchester and nobody knew us in Scotland. We did ONE show. That was it… and it sold out! So every year we have developed the show and added more nights. The show has really turned into something special and if you’ve followed us on the journey, you’ll know what I mean!
We love the community around fringe as artists and particularly at The Jazz Bar as a venue hub. The space is perfect for the music we play and so we love coming back every year. We are thrilled to be back this year 21, 22, 23 and 24 August at 4PM.
What are the big things you’ve learned since 2022 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?
2022 was a great year for us at Fringe. We did 7 shows..! One thing we learnt is that accommodation is expensive..!
But in all seriousness, we have learnt that the arts is still recovering from the last few years. It’s almost like starting again and the one thing that will build up momentum is supporting other artists. The community from last year was like no other. It was reassuring hearing everyone’s stories and to know we have all experienced such similar things being in the arts during this time.
On a more positive note: As a band, we have learnt that this show is getting too big for us! In all the best ways! We have definitely absorbed this one! We have expanded the show to a 2 act cabaret which is being toured this October in Theatres and Concert Halls… more about that later.
So the big one for us is that now we are looking for producers to take us on and help us manage the show as it keeps growing. We never imagined the show would get to this stage and we are so grateful for everyone who has joined us on the way and supported us. If you want to know more about the extended show, head to our website. And if you’re a producer, please come and say hi after the show! We’d love to meet you!
Tell us about your show.
Our show is musical and theatrical journey through the Prohibition era into the Swing Era. The music is the main focus, and how could it not be with seven award winning musicians, but we have threaded it together with skits and theatrical interludes about the culture, music and happenings of the time presented in a fun and engaging way. Excellent music and slightly educational… almost.
We are 100% self produced. Alex Hill and I manage the band and produce the shows as well as create the concepts and write the script. We have an amazing band who, especially in the last few years have become really involved in the show, offering incredible inputs to song arrangements and script suggestions. It has really developed and changed every year since 2017.
Not often do you see the band members get involved with the script..! We have grown this over the years and it’s so great to have a full ‘cast’ in the band. This year as well, we have worked with a text and vocal coach called Anne Whitaker. She has given us tips on how to use our voices in the space and different tools to deliver text. Often if you have an instrument in front of you, you won’t need to speak on stage so this has been extremely vital in the progress of the show.
The last time we interviewed here, we mentioned wanting to take the show on tour… and now we ARE! Later this year we are heading to London, Wells, Newcastle, Manchester, Liverpool, Nottingham, Cheshire, Norwich and Marsden to present our extended 2 act show!! You can head to our website to get tickets, see dates, venues and more details. You’re not going to want to miss it, ol’ sports!
What should your audience see at the festivals after they’ve seen your show?
My Best Judys is happening at Zoo Southside Main House. It is a glamorous night of beautiful singing and celebration of all music Judy. The venue is great and it’s the show’s first time in Edinburgh! Go check it out for sure if you like Judy Garland and tunes by Gershwin, Arlen and more. The musical era slightly after The Easy Rollers.
If you want to stay in this jazz world, but go even further back in time, we highly recommend Tenement Jazz who play at The Jazz Bar. We see these guys every year and think they are great. One day we will have to do a show with them… dream gig. Go see them.
We also recommend Garry Star. He is one of our faves. VERY different to our show’s world but we go every year. Great physical comedy… very physical.
Amy Webber is another comedian we would highly recommend. She incorporates her music background with her stand up and we think she is hilarious.
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