In this episode of #SNAPCHATZ, we explore shows that bring evolving truths to #EdFringe 2023. Delve into Richard Cobb’s humorous encounter with nostalgia, witness the unseen characters of Catherine Wheels’ Australian outback, and experience Alexandra Haddow’s reflections on ‘something bad’ she did in her 20’s.
#SNAPCHATZ is simple. I challenge all 2023 Fringe performers & creators to answer 3 questions and to sell you, dear reader, their show. Their answers are tossed into a digital hat, and published in quick-read trios. It’s a Fringe goer’s fastest and safest (no guerilla flyering!) way to find someone, or something, new.
If you like what you read, you’re intrigued, you bark a laugh or shed a tear, or you suspect some risk of lasting trauma, then click those links and buy a ticket, or 10!
Richard Cobb: Couple’s Massage
Who are you/what is your show?
Hello! I’m a Scottish comedian & writer based in London. My show’s about being on honeymoon and trying to remain present in the moment but getting continually distracted by nostalgia & other nonsense.
What sets your show apart from the rest?
I’ve sort of worked backwards to pull my debut hour together. Most of it leans on stories from four autobiographical books I wrote before I started performing comedy. The books are largely based on growing up in Scotland in the 90s and a lot of the awkwardness that came with it so the foundations were already there for the main arc of the show.
Your dream audience turns up to see the show, who’s watching?
Cliff Richard for starters. He’s not referenced at any point in the show but I reckon if it goes badly he could stand up and sing Summer Holiday to distract the crowd while I sneak out the fire exit. Some of the cast of The OC could be there in case anyone’s not seen it and doesn’t get the references so they could deal with those questions. Then probably one or two celebrity dogs that would appreciate the dog anecdotes. Oh and my family & R-Patz.
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Lightning Ridge
Who are you/what is your show?
I am Gill Robertson from Catherine Wheels and I am the solo performer in Lightning Ridge a show set in opal mining country in Australia.
What sets your show apart from the rest?
It has everything (apart from fireworks and live animals on stage). I play many characters in the show but the most important ones are invisible which can be a challenge for an actor. However, I think my invisible acting will be the finest in the Fringe so that is surely a USP.
Your dream audience turns up to see the show, who’s watching?
Children! Who can come in gangs or bring adults, or adults without children, they can come too! Lots of Australians can come and bring native animals with them which would help set up the atmosphere of the show which is set in the outback. Maybe some famous Australian actors too, so I could ask them to play other characters on stage and if I fell ill during the run, Cate Blanchett could step in.
Alexandra Haddow: Not My Finest Hour
Who are you/what is your show?
I’m Alexandra Haddow and my show is called Not My Finest Hour. It’s about doing things wrong, and specifically, something bad I did in my twenties. As well as some other fun stuff don’t worry.
What sets your show apart from the rest?
I think I’m probably the only one talking about the thing I talk about, but I can’t give it away here! Aside from that, I have a great wardrobe. You’ll have to come and see the show and decide the rest for yourself!
Your dream audience turns up to see the show, who’s watching?
Oh god I’d want all of the following people but I wouldn’t want to know they were there until afterwards, then we can all go and get drunk. Sharon Horgan, Kate Moss, Joe Lycett, everyone who’s ever wronged me (or had the gall not to fancy me when I fancied them), Grayson Perry, Alex Turner, Jarvis Cocker, Billie Piper, Michaela Coel, Billy Connolly, the woman in my local sandwich shop who always asks me about my shows, my nan (RIP), and your mum.
