04 September 2017

How to Fringe 2017: Katie Visser

Katie Visser
Singer-songwriter, cabaret artist. I’m also a secondary drama and english teacher

Katie’s 80s
14–16 September
Studio Theatre, Gasworks Arts Park

 
Katie Visser. Photo by James Terry


If you could invite anyone to your show (and you knew they would come), who would it be?
Madonna, Kim Wilde, Tina Turner, Pat Benetar, Ann and Nancy Wilson, and any other famous icon of the 80s. If Michael Jackson, Prince, George Michael and David Bowie came back from the dead, I’d definitely invite them too.

The Melbourne Fringe in three words.
Diverse, Creative, Community.

A favourite Melbourne Fringe memory.
In 2002, I performed in a Fringe show as part of a Monash Student Union Theatre (MUST) play at a bar called Pony and the audience sat on milk crates (or something like that) while the cast acted around them in this stuffy, cramped upstairs room that had a retro look about it.

What is your experience as an independent artist being part of the Melbourne Fringe?
It’s been really positive. This is the first time I have self-produced and performed a show for the Fringe and I can't believe the resources and contacts you get. You learn so much as you go.

What makes the Melbourne Fringe unique?
It’s all about helping independent artists get the best experience and as much exposure as possible. They are all about access and inclusivity.

Your advice for choosing what to see in the Melbourne Fringe.
See whatever interests you. Even if you don’t know the artists, go and see local and independent art and support our vibrant arts community.

Do you think there’s a better system than star ratings for reviews?
Why do we have to rate art? Can’t we just give positive vibes to everyone?

Five shows/events you will not miss at the 2017 Melbourne Fringe.
Bed Reckoning
Prayers to Broken Stone, Boutique Theatre
Sam Marzden’s 1950's B-Grade Sci-Fi Movie
The Songs of Jesse Adams
The Lazy Show, Nikki Spunde