Edinburgh, the Fringe, why bother?
Because the day you give up doing the fringe is the day you give up doing life. Or the day you can no longer get a loan.
What have been the nuggets of inspiration behind your show this year?
It’s based on the true stories of the poor souls from my last therapy group. Literally, its, in their own words. Known as ‘Verbatim theatre’ or ‘We couldn’t be bothered to write it theatre’. Such incredibly brave people. And I really hope this show finally puts their stories out into the world where they deserve to be. Part of me wishes I’d got their names so I could split the cost with them.
Stand-out Fringe moment to date?
Winning an entire ham at the OTT awards, 1998. Still got some in the freezer I think.
When you wished a hole had opened up in the ground and swallowed you up?
Probably my complete nervous breakdown whilst playing Lady M at a little venue called ‘The sweat box’ The play was supposed to be Othello.
Your unsung heroes in the industry at present?
I think we should all take a moment to thank the audience. I mean they have to sit through all this shit. Some of them even pay! Heroes all.
Three shows you must see this Fringe?
Oh gosh, well I must mention my dear boys who are appearing in my show. Andy Bridge: AART and Tom Greaves in Open Swim. They’re very good. Apparently. I mean to me they’re essentially very cheap set. And of course my ancient Frenemy Mr Swallow.
The one person you’d love to see your show and why?
Oh god that’s easy. My first husband of course John Smells, Smellsy. There was a man! Directed me in my first ever shows, ‘Pigs in Blankets’ (kids) ’Take off your moustache Dad you look like Hitler’ (farce) and of course the bitingly clever satire ‘Shut up Thatcher!’ If only he could see my show this year, what I wouldn’t give for that! I mean that said I would REALLY freak out. He’s dead for God’s sake!
The reason why one should come and see your show?
To paraphrase Arnold Schwarzenegger ‘Come with me if you want to live. I mean really LIVE’
The one thing in Edinburgh you must do?
Play knock a door run. The Scots absolutely love it!
Ah sorry, you’re dead. But least you can have that dinner party you’ve always wanted. Who are you inviting?
Oh goodness, Mandela for his wisdom. Luther King for his courage. And Brian from my local cafe for his trifles.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tK1wZt6MzI8
See the show: Colin Hoult/Anna Mann: A Sketch Show for Depressives is at the Pleasance Courtyard at 7pm, 3rd – 28th (except 17th)
