After an amazing response last year we have once again resurrected our Brighton Bites mini-interviews. These short and snappy Q&As offer an, occasionally witty – often hilarious, insight into the acts strutting, sailing, surfing (insert preferred form of transport here) in to join the line-up of England’s largest arts festival, Brighton Fringe. 2018 was a record-breaking year for the Fringe with over 575,000 people attending the festival; and with 2019 promising to be more inclusive than ever, our Bites aim to give you a taste of what’s in store across the 4,500+ events and performances that are on offer.
Next up, Mel Byron tells us about her show Old Movies Saved My Life which she’ll be performing at Sweet @ The Welly.
Describe your show in one sentence?
A funny, warm one-woman show about how a small-town girl learnt valuable life lessons from films of the 1930s and 1940s.
Why Brighton Fringe?
This is my second Brighton Fringe. I had such a wonderful time with last year’s show; the audiences were wonderful, and the city is so welcoming. Of course I was going to return.
How did the show get to where it is today?
I did a full run at last year’s Edinburgh Fringe, and have performed at other festivals and for film societies. Those lovely audiences have helped to shape the show.
What do you think sets your show apart from all the other festival offerings?
It’s a perfect afternoon show for all ages, but works really well for older audiences. It’s funny and nostalgic.
What show do you not want to miss at this year’s Brighton Fringe (apart from your own!)?
I’ve passed the silent disco so many times on the street. I’m determined to join in at least once this year.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given, or would give, for performing at a fringe festival?
Expect anything and everything. Don’t be disappointed if it doesn’t go as planned, it’s all a learning experience.
With the theme of this year’s festival being ‘DARE to Discover’, we’d like you to tell us a TRUTH – something about you or the show that fans may not know.
I’m the only adult I know who can’t swim.
Old Movies Saved My Life runs at Brighton Fringe from 25-27 May 2019. Brighton Fringe takes place between 3 May – 2 June 2019; www.brightonfringe.org
Nicole Craft | Image: Contributed
