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, Ian Smith discusses their show Foot Spa Half Empty.
What can you tell me in your words about your show?
It's a stand-up comedy show about thinking your life was heading in a more relaxing direction, only for a stressful bit of news to make things more stressful again - it's that, but funny. It can be hard to sum up a stand-up show and still make it sound entertaining. It's a very silly show that I hope gives a window into my last year.
Where did the inspiration for this piece come from?
It's largely about a semen analysis I did in April. I hope this sells the show to people.
How have you approached developing the show?
I do a lot of previews and test out all my ideas - and then I slowly whittle them down and try to find what the core of the show is and surround it with the funniest other bits. Then I like to get some things to make it a bit more than just stand-up, little theatrical flourishes or props. This year they seem to include lots of green and a standing fan.
How would you describe the style of the show?
It's conversational and energetic observational storytelling stand-up. I think that's the best way to sum it up. Oh, and I shout a lot. It can be quite shouty.
Can you describe the show in 3 words?
Funny. Sperm. Oscillating.
How do you mentally and physically prepare for a run like the Fringe?
I don't think I do either of those things very well, so I don't think anyone should follow my advice. I'm bringing my running shoes this year, so it will be interesting to see how many times I actually put them on my feet.
What is one random fact about the show that you can share?
It's got a live magic spell in it. Which is a first for me.
Away from your show, what are you most looking forward to about being in Edinburgh?
I love Scottish snacks so much - a big part of my childhood. Peppermint squares, empire biscuits, tablet. I'm going to eat lots of salads so I can then eat my bodyweight in sweet snacks and feel a bit less guilty.
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| Photo by Matt Stronge |
What is one hidden gem in Edinburgh that everyone should visit?
This isn't technically Edinburgh, so I apologise if this is going away from your question - but I love Queensferry, it's about a 30 minute taxi journey out of the city. I went there on my day off last year and sat by the coast with the Forth Road Bridge over me and really loved it. My family went on holiday to Aberdeen a lot in the summer and the journey over that bridge is very nostalgic.
Are there any other shows at the Fringe you’d like to recommend?
I'm excited to see Jonny Pelham's show and I really love the look of Lucy Pearman's show where she is dressed as the moon. Pierre Novellie and Helen Bauer are always very funny too, so I'll be seeing their shows for sure.
What was the first piece of theatre you saw which had a big impact on you?
In college we saw a lot of Kneehigh Theatre - I remember seeing 'Tristan and Yseult' and 'Nights at the Circus' directed by Emma Rice that had beautiful live music and a darkness to them, but also really funny and tender. I was really blown away by them.
What do you hope an audience member takes away from seeing the show?
I hope they take away that they've laughed a lot - and that a lot f that laughter has come from a subject you don't hear people talking about all the time. That it's a unique observational comedy show with some heart to it.
Where and when can people see your show?
12.30 at Monkey Barrel (MB1)
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