“The script is a selection of 90 plays performed and written during the company’s first 25 years, hand-picked by Greg Allen, the creator of the genre.”
WHO: El Belilty
WHAT: “A variety show that melds together a myriad of different genres, each connected by audience interaction. From raunchy comedies to honest confessions, each play presents its own story, statement and/or improvisation that will take you through a rollercoaster of emotions. The ensemble will both guide you and be guided by you throughout the 60 minutes of our show. Every performance will be unique and entirely dictated by you – our audience! If you sit close enough, you may even star in the show yourself…”
WHERE: Upper Theatre at theSpace @ Niddry St (Venue 9)
WHEN: 18:15 (60 min)
MORE: Click Here!
Is this your first time to Edinburgh?
Yes, this is my first time in Edinburgh! Although I’ve participated in Fringe before (Hollywood Fringe Festival), the Edinburgh Fringe is an entirely new and unique experience. As the largest and first Fringe Festival in the world, the HFF was only a tiny taste of the energy, art, and creativity of EdFringe—which excites me beyond compare. The sheer amount of art brought here, both new works and old, and the range of every genre imaginable, make this the most inspiring environment to be in as an artist. I hope to leave this experience with new perspectives on art and creation, as well as a deeper understanding of the cultures, countries, and walks of life represented by those around me.
What are the big things you’ve learned since 2024 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?
Honestly, since beginning this project in 2024, I’ve grown as both an artist and a person. This project has taught me patience, self-confidence, trust (in myself and others), and leadership. Transitioning from assistant directing at HFF24 to directing this production, I’ve become more self-assured, confident, and clear about the kind of art I want to put into the world. In times like these—marked by war, famine, fascism, genocide, and climate change—theatre is more important than ever. It remains a medium for true connection and change, and it’s an honor to bring joy to everyone who walks into our show. I know this is only the beginning of my journey of growth, and I cannot wait to see what more I can learn and gain from my actors, crew, and all the artists I’ve yet to meet!
Tell us about your show.
Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind (30 Plays in 60 Minutes) is a neo-futurist play originating in Chicago that has never been performed the same way twice. Since 1988, the Neo-Futurists have developed a multitude of short plays that change weekly—each relating to the current state of the world, politics, or even the actors’ personal lives. The script is a selection of 90 plays performed and written during the company’s first 25 years, hand-picked by Greg Allen, the creator of the genre. From these 90 plays, I selected 30—ranging from comedy, drama, improv, and confessions to political commentary—to be performed by my cast of eleven USC students, ages 18–23. For the past nine months, we’ve been working, rehearsing, and perfecting our show, building on the success of our sold-out Los Angeles run. The ever-changing nature of this play and its elements of audience interaction capture the essence of live theatre and leave our audiences with smiles on their faces, sore abs, and—hopefully—fresh reflections on their reality.
What should your audience see at the festivals after they’ve seen your show?
I wholeheartedly recommend seeing Swamplesque—the energy, talent, and spectacle of the show are truly next level.
I’m also a huge fan of Xhloe and Natasha—their performances in every production are utterly captivating and not to be missed.
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