Only one person can save the Union now, and it’s comedic historian Ellie MacPherson! Inspired by her historical hall pass, Ellie wants your vote and she’s getting it the only way she knows how, by singing and sharing stories from America’s past. Stories which sound eerily like America’s present. And that’s a gift no one wants.
Would you mind giving us a brief insight into what your show is?
It’s the cabaret solo show Abraham Lincoln would have written about his early life. Because Abraham Lincoln actually loved the theatre. And that’s tragic. Like America!
Tell us about the creative team and the process involved?
My creative process involves months of fretting, reading, talking at my director, and talking at my music director. Locking myself in a rehearsal studio for a week and coming out with something that immediately needs to be changed but at least it’s on paper. My director Elizabeth Bennett is a saint and my music director Patrick Sulken is a genius I am very lucky that they haven’t plotted my demise. yet.
How does it feel coming to the Fringe?
I’m so excited, partly because I know what to expect this time around. I think I blacked out the last time I was there from the adrenaline and excitement. This time I can’t black out cause I’m bringing my 1 year old baby: really hoping she ends up with a Scottish accent. I can’t understand her anyway.
There are over 3,000 shows at the Fringe. So, what sets your show apart?
The Abe Lincoln burlesque number.
Is there anything specific you’re hoping the audience will take away?
I hope audiences leave feeling more like Abraham Lincoln: tall, proud, kind of sad, kind of gay, ready to unite their countries, with a song in their heart. Did I mention, kind of gay?
Your ideal audience is in attendance, who’s watching? Or more importantly – who isn’t there…
Would love for some history nerds to be in attendance but I’ve hopefully crafted the show for most everyone’s enjoyment. Except for Kim Jong Un. I think he would hate it.
It’s an intense month, so where you’re able, how do you plan to relax, and are there any other shows you intend to see or want to recommend?
I’m excited to see kids shows with my kid, and to drink too much coffee. I’m really excited to see my friend Julian Stern’s show 2lian Stern Keeps 2rying. I met Julian last year at a coffee shop right before my very first show and he talked me off the ledge. Excited to finally catch his new show!
In your ideal world, how can we improve the Fringe, of performance, and the industry?
I don’t know. We’re stuck with Capitalism. Hopefully, more people like Fleabag and Baby Reindeer can afford to support more artists.
Interested in being featured on our Have a Gander page? With many previews and Q&As lined up, we’re always happy to chat about including your show in future articles. Please do get in touch through the contact page to feature in an upcoming ‘Have A Gander’