Interview with Melinda Hughes, opera singer

Could you first introduce yourself to the reader?

My name is Melinda Hughes. I’m an opera singer, satirical cabaret writer, comedian, actress and performer. slash/ slash/ slash!

Tell us about your show?

I play the real-life cabaret performer Margo Lion who was Marlene Dietrich’s lover. The show takes place between the 1928-1933 during the decadence and debauchery of Weimar Berlin. It focuses on her tumultuous relationship between her and her husband, the lyricist Marcellus Schiffer whilst the rise of fascism plays out in the background. It’s packed with Weimar anthems as well as newly written songs.

Why do you want to perform at Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and is it different from other festivals?

I feel Edinburgh is the greatest platform there is to present a new work; meet amazing people and to experience an overwhelming and exhilarating array of creative performance and comedy.

What first motivated you to enter the industry? Who were your inspirations?

It was set in stone since I was tiny - I had the solo in the school concerts and the lead role in plays!

Do you ever feel any pressure to be a social commentator, or constantly update material to respond to events?

I am constantly writing songs with my co-write Jeremy Limb on a myriad of topics, particularly politics and people’s behaviour. I don’t feel pressure to do so, I love doing it although the pressure is writing a song that has a long enough shelf life for us to be able to perform for at least a year and still be right on point.

Equally, do you feel there has been a shift in public sentiment that has affected your work?

I had the idea to write MARGO half woman, half beast seven years ago but only started researching and writing it two years ago. What propelled me was the distinct parallel one can draw from the rise of fascism in 1933 and the wave of populism and hatred in Trump’s America. This combined with my love for Weimar music and the fact it is 100 years since the Weimar Republic was formed makes it all so poignant.

Describe the last year in 5 words or less?

Globally: Manic, terrifying, dangerous, addictive, intriguing.

Personally: Creative, busy, happy, fun, impatient.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to take a show up to the fringe?

Save up ALOT of money and get a good PR person who understands your show. It’s worth every penny.

And what advice do you wish you’d been given when entering the industry?

Keep networking. Always work with people better than you as it raises your game. Never stop learning / taking lessons or courses. Try to collaborate as much as possible - wonderful things come out of collaboration.

When and where can people see your show?

2-18 August ( not 6,13) Assembly Rooms (Venue 20) 5.55pm

And where can people find, follow and like you online?