12 September 2017

How to Fringe 2017: Kate Lawrence

Kate Lawrence
Producer, Cirque Nocturne 

Cirque Nocturne. A 1940's whodunnit ... circus style
14–17 September
Wonderland Spiegeltent

Circque Nocturne

If you could invite anyone to your show (and you knew they would come), who would it be?
All the lovely people of Melbourne!

Your advice for choosing what to see in the Melbourne Fringe.
I think that it’s important to support shows that friends and colleagues are presenting, and hopefully they will return the favour by supporting your shows. That said, is easy to spend all of your time seeing shows of the same genre, which is a pity when there are so many weird and wonderful events taking place. I think its best at fringe festivals to more or less go with the flow. See what shows are on near where you happen to be at any given time. Start a conversation with someone in a bar and go to their show. Take a gamble on something new that sounds extraordinary.

Do you think there’s a better system than star ratings for reviews?
The public set a lot of store by the star system and reviews, which is a pity as often those writing them are misguided or ignorant, especially when it comes to circus shows. We always get sent dance or theatre reviewers, who find it hard to dissect circus as they would their own art forms. The star system is useful for putting on media releases and promotional material, but doesn't really give an insight into the content of the show.

Honestly, as an artist I find that well written, thoughtful reviews – be they positive or negative – are invaluable feedback for improving and developing shows.

Shows/events that you will not miss at the 2017 Melbourne Fringe.
After Hours Cabaret Club
Circalicious
No Frills Cabaret. All the skills just no frills! $10
Killjoy. Destroy the fantasy