Would you mind giving us an insight into what your show/event/performance is?
Imagine combining the comedy of Robin Williams, the acting chops of Robert DeNiro and the sex appeal of Paul Rudd, and you’ll come close to understanding Bucksomly Betrothals. It is a fast-paced, 50 minute comedy centering on the romantic life (or lack thereof) of Alan Rivers, a middle-aged former bowling protégée. Can he find the one? Or even a one?
Tell us about the creative team and the process involved?
The process of creating art is a complicated thing, it starts with a spark, then a flame and before you know it, you’ve set fire to the wider Midlothian area. The writing team’s minds have been stewing all year over weekly dinners to come up with Bucksomly. Once we found our incredible cast, however, the trial of the funniest prevailed: through countless improvised sessions, we developed numerous smaller characters and some of our favourite bits.
How does it feel coming to (back to) the Fringe?
Like the great Matt Damon in the hit film The Odyssey (2026), we have returned when our home needed us most, to fight off the swarms of mediocrity and reclaim our place on the throne. We are all very excited and, since most of us have graduated this summer, very keen to make our final fringe as students the best one yet.
With shows from all over the world at the Fringe, what sets yours apart?
Simple. Bucksomly Betrothals did not come from our world but the heavens themselves. What other show can boast such glowing reviews as “Oh, aren’t they sweet?” – Tai’s Nan (2024); “They’re a funny bunch!” – Ava’s flatmate (2026), and “There were three of us in this marriage” – Princess Di (1995). Plus, bringing raw animal passion, we present the world-debut of the hunk that is Jeremy Foxtrot.
On that, is there anything in the production or production team’s backgrounds which influences the way the show is performed or told?
We typically get our creative ideas from the back of cereal packets or the wisdom of our mother-in-laws, but for this script we needed the personal angle; that’s where co-writer Anna Yarwood’s extensive bowling and lovemaking experience came in clutch. Since presenting our first masterpiece, The Dink Roger’s Show (Fringe 2024), we’ve been striving to create a character with such instant comedic value as Dink, a washed-up actor recounting his life with pure egotism. When we landed upon Alan, Dink’s spiritual twin, who clings just as hard to his past successes yet has almost nothing to show for them, we knew he was the one for us.
Is there anything specific you’re hoping the audience will take away?
We’re hoping they will take away that even in the dark depths of Milton Keynes, there is still romantic hope for an ex-bowler and current sad little man like Alan Rivers and maybe like them too! To this end, even us co-writers who reject sincerity on a primal level, have written in a few properly wholesome moments, dotted through a show that will leave people hopeful and stuffed to the brim with laughter and joy.
Your Ideal audience is in attendance, who’s watching? Or more importantly – who isn’t…?
Our ideal audience includes queens, dignitaries, religious leaders and David Hasselhoff. The only person we refuse to allow entry to our shows is former governor Arnold Swchartzenegger. Basically anyone who is keen for a laugh, and willing to suspend their disbelief, is perfect for the show.
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?
We all plan to relax by getting private massages from Stephen (3 for the price of 1) and eating obscene amounts of chocolate muffins. For recommendations, Bucksomly Betrothals officially endorses ‘The Lady Boys of Bangkok’ and ‘Wow! The Amazing Family Magic Show’. Some of our cast are involved in Shakespeare Night Live, Last Orders, I, Claudius, and The Improverts so we’d like to shout those out too!
Bucksomly Betrothals runs at Venue 38, Studio at theSpaceTriplex
Runs: 7th -11th August at 21:05pm
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’