In our ongoing Edinburgh Fringe 2026 interview series, we are speaking to artists and creatives who are bringing their shows to the Scottish capital this summer.
In this interview, we speak with Joey Jennings about Little Pink Dress.
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| Photo by Sam Brooks |
What can you tell me about your show?
It’s a one-man musical traumedy! While the story is universal, it's rooted in the experience of a gay child raised by a single mother, told through musical storytelling. More broadly, it's for anyone who has lost touch with their younger self. The songs might make you laugh and cry at the same time.
It’s a one-man musical traumedy! While the story is universal, it's rooted in the experience of a gay child raised by a single mother, told through musical storytelling. More broadly, it's for anyone who has lost touch with their younger self. The songs might make you laugh and cry at the same time.
How would you describe the style of your show to anyone who has never seen you before?
First and foremost, it’s a musical, so if you like musical theatre, I think this show's for you! More specifically, it’s a gay coming-of-age country/rock opera one-man dark comedy.
What was the lightbulb moment that led to the creation of this piece?
Mid-May 2020. Four in the morning. I stayed up way too late because I couldn’t sleep. I wrote the first song, Song About Dad, and imagined myself onstage doing this show. Most of the music was written that summer. And here we are!
What makes 2026 the perfect year for this specific story or performance?
After sitting with this project for six years, I selfishly felt it was finally time to get it out of my system. But one of the show's central themes is that we're all making life up as we go. The truth is, there was never going to be a perfect time to perform it -many a year could have been the right one.
That being said, in America right now, queer identities are being politicized, and queer art is being systematically defunded and erased. By telling a queer story through the traditionally conservative country music genre, the show may Trojan horse empathy into audiences who might not otherwise engage with it.
How will you mentally and physically prepare for a run at the Fringe?
Coffee, gym, walk, eat, show, walk, sleep, repeat.
If you couldn't use a flyer to attract audiences, what ridiculous object would you hand out to people to get them into your show?
Pink cowboy hats that say "Cock-Sucking Faggot."
What is the one item in your Fringe Survival Kit that you can't live without at the Fringe?
My little pink dress.
What would you deem as success at the end of the Fringe?
Truthfully, just being here feels like the success. The fact that my team and I made it here is something I don't take for granted. I feel incredibly supported by them and by the friends and family who have believed in me every step of the way. It's honestly surreal. If Joey from six years ago could see where I am today, I think he'd get full body chills and start sobbing.
I'd love to share this story with as many people as possible, so if we sell out any shows, that would feel like a huge accomplishment.
Other than your own show, are there any other shows you would recommend at the Fringe this year?
Woody Sez and Glob. I'm also very intrigued by Swamplesque and Nun Sl*t!!
What is one Edinburgh spot that you would recommend people visit when they're not watching performances?
No clue...I just got here and need recs!
Can you describe the show in five words?
Gay. Country. Rock. Musical. Traumedy.
What keeps you inspired?
Being alone and quiet time in nature. Also, my 92-year-old Grandpa.
What would you hope someone takes away from seeing the show?
I hope they leave feeling less alone in their loneliness and with a deeper connection to their younger self.
When and where can people see the show?
August 5th - 30th (except the 17th and 24th) at 17:35 at C Venues - C Aquila!
Tickets are available from https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/little-pink-dress
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| Photo by Sam Brooks |
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