Would you mind giving us an insight into what your show/event/performance is?
Acid’s Reign is a full-throttle modern musical about a group of drag artists struggling to reconcile their different approaches to climate activism in the fragmented political world of 2026. It’s fast-paced, fun and jam-packed with absolute bangers
Tell us about the creative team and the process involved?
In terms of process, it’s an original musical so there’s been a lot of workshopping in the room, which I love. We’ve got some mad talent in the team! Some of us are returners but it’s been so much fun getting to know Vic and the swings as well- they’re all fab. So I don’t embarrass myself gushing about them all on record, if the core cast were Bob’s Burgers characters I think Harry would be Linda, Gigi would be Louise, Vic would be Gene, Sé would be Bob (but specifically in the episode where he gets into patty cake), and I guess that leaves me as Tina? Although Sé and I often joke we’re actually the Andy and Ollie of the team.
How does it feel coming to (back to) the Fringe?
I was last at the fringe in 2018 performing sketch comedy as a student, so it actually feels like a really fun full-circle moment for me to be returning professionally in such a cracking venue! I love the fringe, it’s been how I’ve discovered some of my favourite shows and artists, and though I know that it can be a bit gruelling, I absolutely cannot wait to see a million things and hang out with all the artists who are going to be there. The whole cast is going to be living together in a flatshare as well… which feels a little like a reality TV show.
With shows from all over the world at the Fringe, what sets yours apart?
I think the team, honestly. We fit into a lot of different boxes as a show. We’re a musical, but we’re also a team of established drag artists (me excluded… ‘I’m just a worm’), there’s elements of clown and multi-roling, and its core there’s a lot of genuine heart.
On that, is there anything in the production or production team’s backgrounds which influences the way the show is performed or told?
Yes! Evie’s script and Luke’s direction intersect in such a unique way. Evie comes from clowning background (by training, not blood) so that’s a huge influence, especially the more political strands like Bouffant. It also makes a huge difference working with a team with actual experience of climate activism, collective action and its stakes. In terms of the performing team, the creatives have worked really hard to mould our characters to each of our skill sets and strengths. That means if you’re a fan of Jamie Fuxx and his insane vocals, you’ll be a fan of his character Mickey Steele, if you’re a fan of the entity known as Scarlett Harlett, you’ll get her on steroids in Dina Mite.
Is there anything specific you’re hoping the audience will take away?
I just hope people have as much fun watching it as we have making it.
Your Ideal audience is in attendance, who’s watching? Or more importantly – who isn’t…?
For reasons that will become clear if you see the show, I would die if Lyn Gardner came. In terms of people who shouldn’t come, I actually think some of the diabolical bastards burning the planet for profit could do with sitting with some of the themes of the show, but JK Rowling need not attend.
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?
David Elms Describes a Room is top of the list for me. I’ll also be seeing Sophie Duker’s Hot Beef Injection, HAM by Hotter, Hole! and Max Oleskar’s Making the Cut. John Tothill is also up with the final few shows of Thank God This Lasts Forever which I cannot recommend enough. Honestly, one of my fav things about being at the fringe the whole time is not planning too much and just going to see things that get recommended to me; I saw Pike St on a recommendation back in 2017 and that’s how I became obsessed with Nilaja Sun’s work. In terms of staying sane, I intend to do some chilling at the meadows, some cooking of proper meals, and some visiting of the Scottish side of my family. Other than that I’m going to really really really try not to spend all my money on tiny pots of mac and cheese from a van like I did last time I was up- wish me luck!
Acid’s Reign runs at Venue 33, Forth at Pleasance Courtyard
Runs: 5th – 31st August at 15:45pm
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