Spring is here, so our thoughts turn to Fringe shows - Karen Koren
April is fast approaching and spring is in the air. The Gilded Balloon’s second batch of Fringe shows go on sale next week.
There are so many weird and wonderful shows among this on sale and it’s just too difficult to mention them all in the press release that goes out to all the national newspapers.
I have chosen a few that are not in the main press release, to give you a wee secret preview of some of the shows that are definitely worth seeing. The best way to find the little gems is by digging around and going to see shows that you wouldn’t ordinarily go to.
It’s word of mouth that works every time. So here are some weird and wonderful shows that are just about to start their journey of discovery.
A Scottish musical and cast is Unheard Voices, Unbroken Spirits. It’s a raw, modern musical following a group of friends navigating life, loss and the Scottish care system, written and performed by care-experienced youth.
Boy in a Box is a satirical play aiming to expose and eviscerate the statement heard round the world that America is NOT a racist country through abstract realism and historical analysis.
For some lighter watching, we have a wealth of camp, fun, shows starting with Joshy in Paris is a spectacular camp comedy cabaret that shares the story of a gay Australian trying to make it as a creative superstar in the streets of Paris.
EIGHT: The One (Wo)Man Drag King Musical Parody. Drag King Henry VIII clears his name and tells his own story in this musical extravaganza!
Alongside some beautifully scripted shows, the Fringe wouldn’t be complete without some improvised comedy. Fabled is an entirely improvised fantasy adventure tale that features a hilarious cast of improvisers with live musical accompaniment.
Lost in Translation return, taking classic film scripts, running them through an online translator a dozen times, then reading the results live on stage in character! A big hit last Fringe.
Waiting for Wonka is an unauthorised parody sequel to one of the most enduring stories of the 20th century. Fifteen years after the competition that ruined their lives, Veruca, Augustus, Violet and Mike must face their childhood trauma and come to terms with what happened on that fabled chocolate factory tour in Glasgow.
Everyone's favourite pantomime dame and Britain's Got Talent semi-finalist Mama G discovers the magic of books and the power of being yourself in this hilarious, award-winning panto adventure for the whole family!
There is so much more but I can only pick a few for now. But this year Gilded Balloon promises to bring some of the best entertainment to you the audience!