Edward Tripp: No Man is an Ireland
Just the Tonic at The Caves, Just Up the Stairs
Dates: 1 – 25 Aug (not 12)
Time: 11:45am (45 mins)
Introducing the former Bard of Exeter…
Edward Tripp – the former Bard of Exeter – makes his Edinburgh Festival Fringe debut this August with a brand new comedy-poetry show, Edward Tripp: No Man is an Ireland.
Tell us about Edward Tripp: No Man is an Ireland
‘No Man is an Ireland’ is a surreal, silly and vaguely autobiographical standup poetry show. People who like poetry should like the show, but people who despise poetry should also like the show. There will be props, theatrical effects and lots of shouting. I also do something with a lettuce that I’m not proud of.
Who are the main character(s) in the show and what are they like?
It’s a one-man show, so I’m the sole performer, but my poems will reference a range of characters; family members, celebrities and a number of endangered animals.
How does it feel to be bringing No Man is an Ireland to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe?
It feels genuinely exciting. I’ve spent a long time refining my ‘work in progress’ show and I’m just really happy to share it with new audiences at last.
Have you done the Fringe before? What are the key pieces of advice you have been given or would give to new groups or people performing at the Fringe?
I am a Fringe newbie, but many friends have made the pilgrimage. I have been advised to see as many other shows as possible, bring more business cards than I think are necessary and jump into as many open-mic spots as I can. Flyering is important, but people also need to see you perform as much as possible. I think that’s additionally important for me because my show does merge a few genres – so it would be helpful for punters to experience a ‘sample’ of what’s in store.
What do you hope that audiences will take away from No Man is an Ireland?
On a very selfish level, I hope they take away a copy of my debut poetry collection, also called ‘No Man is an Ireland’ – and on a very practical level, I hope the front row leave with un-singed eyebrows. There is quite a dramatic pyrotechnic moment near the start of the show.
What is your favourite thing about Edinburgh during August or what are you most looking forward to?
I have lots of performer-friends coming to Edinburgh this year, so I’m mainly looking forward to spending some time with them between shows so we can compare notes, and scars…
My hope is to tour ‘No Man is an Ireland’ next year, so I’m also sincerely interested to meet the audience and gauge their reaction to the show!