Could you first introduce yourself to the reader?
I'm Gerel aka G. I'll challenge your mind while channelling vibes as a writer, actor, rapperturg and MC.
How would you describe your show?
Different tones; a bit like it's been advertised. Boombap, drill, ragga, grime.
Kinda Gassed and hype but also sad at times.
We follow Jerome; an average guy influenced by friends and family ties.
He's always seen as too black or too white as these grey areas breed imbalance in life, it's exceedingly hard to have a good time.
When peers pressure, drugs and rapping are rife will education save his unravelling mind?
What is your favourite part of your show?
I don't know why this always feels like a trick question. Is the answer "the whole thing" as one big segment? How much do I give away if I pick sections? Is it a power-play to say there's a sick ending?
If your show had a theme song, what would it be and why?
Don't mean to get too specific but a Heartless Crew DJ Fonti Crisp Biscuit! For those that don’t know who or what the hell this is - he blends songs from different genres when he mixes.
What is one thing you hope audiences will take away from your show?
I hope the audience don't think my name is Jerome. It's pronounced "Juh-Rell" which is dangerously close!!!
If you could add a surprise celebrity cameo to your show, who would it be and why?
I'm torn between, Lil Simz, Eminem, Dave and Akala. Witty lyricists, sharp as blades on a barber!!!
Why do you want to perform at Edinburgh Festival Fringe?
I don't know why but Festival Fringe sounds cringe and questionable. I prefer when it's referred to as Edinburgh Fringe Festival (I probably say it wrong - though in my mind it's contestable!).
Every year the atmosphere is incredible!!! The flyering styles on the Royal Mile are a spectacle: cheerleaders, gladiators, aliens - expect it all. Eclectic, eccentrics amateur and professionals.
Posted on posters and plastered on every wall. Bars filled with heavy roars of laughter every dawn. Plus, the energy you get is electric when you perform!!!
What differentiates it from other festivals?
I performed at Latitude and that was cool.
I think the scale of Edinburgh and the magnitude gives you a feeling of dizzying heights like high altitude. Plus, we all know now why the Old Town goes down as quite magical.
What is one thing you would change about the Edinburgh Festival Fringe?
Costs. They can limit diversity indirectly. Working class audiences can't come due to rent fees.
How has your background, upbringing and education had an impact on your artistic career?
Mum loves to play characters and pops is a DJ so the arts were part of my life before adulthood.
The truth is, I was encouraged as a school kid. My teacher Mr Anoom said I was born to do this but we couldn't afford acting school, so I felt excluded. Instead, I devoted myself to music. Fast forward to today and I'm doing them both, rapping acting and writing tunes for shows.
What is your favourite thing about performing for a live audience?
One thing that gives me great satisfaction is a random audience reaction. When you're fully in it you don't realise what's happening. When it's done you go "I cried, and someone was clapping?"
What is the strangest thing that has ever happened to you while performing?
I once crapped my pants in the middle of a scene. I had a 4-minute gap to quick change and get clean!!!
What's the most challenging or unconventional venue you've ever performed in, and how did it impact the overall experience?
Shopping centre - notably weird. People barged you with their bags - nobody cared.
Is there a piece of feedback you've received from an audience member or critic after a performance that’s stuck with you?
"KFC's got plenty of jobs, if you don't wanna be here you know what you can do." - Said by a guest director at Drama School.
What is your favourite thing to do in Edinburgh when you're not performing? How do you relax and look after your mental health?
When I get a bit of 'me time' there's a place that does mini macaroni cheese pies.
Is there a show you’re excited to see when you’re up there?
The Death Of Molly Miller!!! Trash Salad!!! Strategic Love Play!!! Mog The Cat!!! Gush The Play!!! Oh My Heart Oh MY Home!!!
What is one piece of advice you’d give to someone thinking about taking a show up to Edinburgh?
The prices here ain't funny, before you come try to save some money.
Tones: A Hip Hop Opera will be performed at 3pm in Pleasance Courtyard (Upstairs) from 2nd – 28th August
Booking link: https://www.pleasance.co.uk/event/tones-hip-hop-opera
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