In our ongoing Edinburgh Fringe interview series, we are speaking to artists and creatives who are bringing their shows to the Scottish capital this summer.
In this interview, Alex Berr discusses their show How To Kill A Mouse.
What can you tell me in your words about your show?
How to Kill a Mouse is about my career as a biomedical research scientist, and why I chose to walk away following my mom’s death from cancer. It sounds like SUCH a bummer, but it’s really funny, I promise.
Where did the inspiration for this piece come from? My mom died and I quit my job as a scientist; there was nothing left to do but write a solo show about it.
How have you approached developing the show?
I did a WIP at last year’s Fringe and have been working with director Michael May since to retool the show. I’ve done a bunch of rewrites and I’m really excited with how the show has evolved!
How would you describe the style of the show?
Dark, narrative comedy
Can you describe the show in 3 words?
Girl Mike Birbiglia
How do you mentally and physically prepare for a run like the Fringe?
I’ve been trying to run the show as much as possible. Last year I got sick the first week of the Fringe so I’m planning on being more diligent about masking and taking precautions on the way there and during the month.
Away from your show, what are you most looking forward to about being in Edinburgh?
I’m so excited to see friends and their shows! I’m also looking forward to seeing non-comedy shows, because I only really saw comedy last year.
Are there any other shows at the Fringe you’d like to recommend?
I’m excited to see the following: Terence Hartnett, Rima Parikh, Sibet Partee (Behind), Mr. Cardboard, Andrew Doherty, Candace Bryan, Kate Sharp, Doktor Kaboom, Fuselage, Sharon Wanjohi, Thor Stenhaug
What was the first piece of theatre you saw which had a big impact on you?
I saw Mike Birbiglia perform “The Old Man and the Pool” at the Fringe two years ago. It was so funny yet moving, and it made me want to write my own show.
What do you hope an audience member takes away from seeing the show?
I hope they learn something about what it means to be a scientist. I hope scientists and those who have lost a loved one feel a sense of catharsis with my show.
Where and when can people see your show?
31 July-24 August (not the 12th) at 12:35 at the Mash House!
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