Could you first introduce yourself to the reader?
Hi, I'm Steve Bugeja, I'm a stand-up comedian, writer and am lactose intolerant
How would you describe your show?
My show tells the true story of when I was 18 and I went and worked on a kid's summer camp in America. I had no relevant experience, was hugely naive and terrified of teenagers. Unfortunately, I had to look after a cabin of American teenagers for six weeks. The show tells the story of what happened.
Why do you want to perform at Edinburgh Festival Fringe?
I love coming to the Edinburgh fringe. It is a real privilege getting to do my own show every night for a month. It's just the place to be in August if you're a comedian. The audiences are smart, appreciative and the crepes are incredible.
What differentiates it from other festivals?
There's no other festival like it. There are some good comedy festivals in England such as Leicester and Brighton but Edinburgh is another ball game entirely. It takes over the entire city and the energy is infectious. I recently came back from the Melbourne comedy festival, which was incredible and not dissimilar to Edinburgh, sadly though it was full of Australians (joke).
Do you think the Fringe has changed over the years? If so, how? Are these changes positive or negative?
There has been a notable shift towards cheaper fringe models, which can only be a good thing for audiences and performers. In the past the fringe could be prohibitively expensive for performers, but in the last three years or so there has been more comedians doing the free fringe and the pay what you want model, which is what I'm doing. It means that, while still quite expensive, the fringe does not become a debt inducing nightmare.
What first motivated you to enter the industry? Who were your inspirations?
I was always mesmerised by stand-up comedians. The idea that one person could captivate hundreds of people with just words and a microphone really appealed to me and my ego. I started out like everyone else on the open mic scene, and sooner or later it became my job. I look up to various people, Kevin Bridges is one of my favourite comedians, in terms of Edinburgh shows, I think Sarah Kendall creates the most engaging hours. I also think Joel Dommett has produced some brilliant fringe shows, I'm absolutely chuffed for him that he's found a wider audience recently.
If you didn't have your current job, what would you probably be doing?
When I was younger I wanted to be a professional wrestler, so almost definitely that.
If you could have any job in the world, what would it be?
Semi-professional wrestler. Nice to have some time off.
What is your earliest childhood art memory?
My Grandad made a birthday card for me and sent it into CBBC, which they read out. It was the finest birthday card I have ever seen.
Do you ever feel any pressure to be a social commentator, or constantly update material to respond to events?
I've recently been tweeting quite a lot about Love Island. I feel that I can offer a unique viewpoint on what is one of the most important cultural events of our generation. Is that what you meant?
Equally, do you think there has been a shift in public sentiment that has affected your work?
People used to hate Chris, but now everyone loves him. This seismic shift in public opinion has now made some of my tweets look misjudged and almost offensive. I'm talking about Love Island again btw.
Describe the last year in 5 words or less?
Australia, Tokyo, Edinburgh, showing off.
If you could work with anybody, from any point in history, who would you pick and why?
Eve from Adam and Eve. Get her side of the whole snake-gate.
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?
I choose a halfway house in my typical indecisive style. People can pay to guarantee entry to my show (5pm, The Tron) or they can chance it and get in for free if/when there is space, and they can then donate at the end of the show. It's Pay What You Want, and it works a treat.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to take a show up to the fringe?
Reconsider. What else could you spend the money on? Are you absolutely sure? If you're still intent on doing it, then don't read reviews, see as much stuff as you can and bring a waterproof.
When and where can people see your show?
5PM at The Tron, on Hunter Square. Everyday during the fringe (3rd-27th August). Don't turn up on the 14th, that's my day off. Reserve a seat to avoid disappointment.
And where can people find, follow and like you online?
@SteveBugeja on twitter. SteveBugejaComedian on Facebook and SteveBugejaComedy on Instagram
Steve Bugeja: Summer Camp is performing at The Tron at 17:00 on 3rd – 27th (not 14th). For tickets and more information visit the Ed Fringe website.
0 Comments