30 August 2017

How to Fringe 2017: Isabel Angus

Isabel Angus
Comedian, writer and about to make my first foray into kids comedy 

Fizzy Kids!
26–30 September 26 - 30
Gasworks Arts Park – Studio Theatre

SM: I trying (and failing) to find a night to see EDGE! the year it won Best Fringe Comedy in 2013;  I saw at the comedy festival. But I first saw Isabel at the Short and Sweet festival; I remember the glitter.

Harley Hefford & Isabel Angus. Fizzy Kids. Photo by Angel Leggas, 3 Fates Media

If you could invite anyone to your show (and you knew they would come), who would it be?
Definitely Kristin Wiig.

The Melbourne Fringe in three words.
Sparkly. Innovative. Joyful.

A favourite Melbourne Fringe memory.
Doing my first ever Fringe show EDGE! in 2013 (with Rachel Davis) and realising what a wonderful festival the Melbourne Fringe Festival was (and still is).

What is your experience as an independent artist being part of the Melbourne Fringe?
Putting up a new show and getting people to see it can be challenging as an independent artist; however, in my experience, the audiences at Melbourne Fringe are some of the most welcoming and are open to new experiences.

What makes the Melbourne Fringe unique?
The multi-disciplinary nature of Melbourne Fringe makes it unlike any other festival in Melbourne. It is basically an explosive celebration of creativity, diversity and originality in Melbourne town.

What’s your advice for choosing what to see in the Melbourne Fringe?
I think if something about a particular event’s picture or event write-up appeals to you in any way, you should follow that instinct and take a punt on that new show. You never know what you will discover, and supporting emerging talent is a wonderful thing to do.

Do you think there’s a better system than star ratings for reviews?
I think the star rating system could be better if it were accompanied by a disclaimer of sorts, where the reviewer lists their personal interests and tastes – favourite films, books, theatre, TV shows etc. That way, readers can have an idea of the reviewer’s unique sensibilities, which might then help them gauge whether the show is for them or not. For instance if the reviewer lists Donald Trump as a personal interest/favourite, and gives a show two-stars, some people might chose to disregard that particular reviewer’s opinion; just a thought.

Five shows/events that you will not miss at the 2017 Melbourne Fringe.
Geraldine Hickey: It’s My Show
Pee Stick
Let’s get Practical! Live. Presented by The Very Good Looking Initiative
Tessa Waters: Volcano
Betty GRUMBLE: Sex Clown Saves the World