The Edinburgh Fringe is almost upon us and to get prepared for another Scottish summer Read About Stuff is running a ‘Five From The Fringe’ interview series, where creative teams answer five questions about their upcoming Festival shows.
In this interview, I chat to Callum Grant about their new show Broken Planet Show.
Can you tell me a little about your show and what audiences can expect?
It’s a sincere attempt to save civilisation disguised as a variety show. Audiences can expect clowning, cabaret, live-looped music, audience participation, ridiculous games and a parade of peculiar characters, all hosted by God, just back from holiday and trying to figure out how to get humanity back on track.
There are moments of spectacle, moments of intimacy, plenty of silliness, and hopefully a few surprises. One minute you might be part of a slow-motion pillow fight, the next you’re dancing with a dinosaur or helping save the planet through the medium of the world infamous Nerf Karaoke. It’s chaotic, hopeful and designed to bring people together.
What drew you to this specific story, and why does it belong at the Edinburgh Fringe?
Sometimes all it takes is a smile or a small laugh to completely change someone’s day. I love sharing those moments with strangers, and Broken Planet Show is really my attempt to build a whole show around that feeling. In times of uncertainty, we’re often quick to see differences in one another. I’m constantly amazed by how fast humans pick a side and create an “us” and “them.” I wanted to explore that tendency and poke fun at tribalism, but through play and connection rather than a lecture.
There’s no better place to do that than the largest arts festival in the world! Where people from every background share stories, ideas and experiences. If you’re going to try to save the world, it feels like the right place to start.
What has been the biggest challenge in bringing this production to life?
Packing and flying with 30 Nerf Guns, 35 pillows, an oversized guitar pedal board, a guitar, Cat & Dog Gladiator helmets and a 6 foot inflatable globe.
How does the design of your show (set, sound, or lighting) impact the presentation of your story?
I score much of the show live with my guitar and loop pedals, which gives it a rather unique feel. I believe live music is real magic – anyone can make a Spotify playlist! There’s something pretty special about watching music being created in real time, right in front of you.
The show started life with no proper tech, we relied on flashlights, duct tape and a healthy disregard for best practices. We sometimes still do! Even though there is now a lighting designer creating some wonderful visuals, the show still hangs on to those DIY roots, mixing big theatrical moments with small, beautifully intimate ones.
If you could sum up the show in one word or phrase, what would it be and why?
RIDICULOUS HOPE
Broken Planet Show runs at Just The Big Room at Just The Tonic at The Caves (Venue 88) from August 20th – 30th. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/broken-planet-show
