Could you first introduce yourself to the reader?
I'm PIPPA EVANS. I am a human warrior of jokes and songs.
How would you describe your show?
Like a big hug of rainbow sparkles - set to music!
Why do you want to perform at Edinburgh Festival Fringe?
Because I love Edinburgh and the audiences are the finest in all the world
What differentiates it from other festivals?
Anyone can take part in the festival, which means you get a real spectrum of work. Amazing artists you've never heard of, people that want to give it a go, completely crazy shows that make no sense and beautiful moments you weren't expecting.
Do you think the Fringe has changed over the years? If so, how? Are these changes positive or negative?
It's got bigger, for sure! Which is great for punters, so much to choose from. But sometimes overwhelming. It also means that I am less likely to get into City Restaurant, which is very popular anyway. So please consider my haggis needs before coming to the festival.
What first motivated you to enter the industry? Who were your inspirations?
I love being an idiot on stage. My parents are amateur idiots, but I decided to take it pro. I am inspired by people like Victoria Wood, Brian Conley, Josie Lawrence and Whoopi Goldberg.
If you didn't have your current job, what would you probably be doing?
I'd be working in a kebab house because I have always wanted to shave one of those massive gross legs of mystery meat.
If you could have any job in the world, what would it be?
See above.
What is your earliest childhood art memory?
Playing bum printing in the back garden. It's when my mum would put computer paper down the length of the garden and fill a potty with paint and you'd dip your bum in it and then bounce down the paper on your bum. LARKS!
Do you ever feel any pressure to be a social commentator, or constantly update material to respond to events?
Yes. Because it's weird if you stand on a stage, live, and don't refer, even vaguely to the fact the world is a bit insane at the moment. Doesn't have to be explicit. It could be "Anyone feeling confused right now?" That'd be enough. All art responds to its surroundings - whether consciously or not.
Equally, do you think there has been a shift in public sentiment that has affected your work?
I feel you have to feel your audience. Do they want to forget the outside world or discuss it? Notice their mood and give them the show they want.
Describe the last year in 5 words or less?
Flip Flop Insane U-Turn Bananas
If you could work with anybody, from any point in history, who would you pick and why?
Marie Lloyd - because I LOVE music hall and she was the queen! We only have recordings of her late in her career, so we'll never know exactly how brilliant she was. I would kill to get in a time machine and go back and see her on the Music Hall stage. Watch out, Marty McFly!
Why would a performer opt to do either a ticketed event or participate in the free fringe? What are the benefits and limitations of both?
The venues which are ticketed generally have better facilities in terms of lights/sound, so if you are doing something a bit more theatrical, which relies on good technical equipment, the paid fringe can be a more satisfying experience. Also, if you already have a following and know you will sell well, it is a less stressful experience for the audience if they can buy a ticket in advance (and for you if you are doing the door). However, if you don't need the frills and you are not worried about an immediate queue out the door, then the free fringe is a great place to experiment, to do straight stand up (because you really only need a microphone, if that) and to actually make money on your show. Or at least break even!
What advice would you give to someone who wants to take a show up to the fringe?
Make sure you know why you want to take the show up. If you know your goal is "I want to test this show" "I want to get an agent" or "I've never done 21 shows in a row before" then you can end the festival with a sense of satisfaction, rather than a vague feeling of "why did I just spend £1000 on accommodation again?"
When and where can people see your show?
- Joy Provision
- Pleasance Courtyard
- 2.40pm
- Cabaret Bar
And where can people find, follow and like you online?
- www.pippaevans.com
- @iampippaevans
Pippa Evans: Joy Provision! is performing at Pleasance Courtyard at 14:40 on 2nd – 27th August. For tickets and more information visit the Ed Fringe website.
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