It is August which only means one thing – it is Camden Fringe time! Over the next few weeks we are chatting to acts that are performing at the festival and finding all about their show and what they would call this years iconic Camden Fringe Pigeon! Today we speak to Glenn Wallis about the show I Start Things But Don’t Fin.

Date: 12th & 26th August
Time: 19:00 / 17:30
Price: £8
Location: Museum of Comedy
Ticket Link:  https://camdenfringe.com/events/i-start-things-but-dont-fin/

Hello! Tell us about yourself ? 

Hi! My name is Glenn Wallis and I’m an Australian actor and musical comedian. I moved to London last year and am making my UK Fringe debut.

How did you come up with the name of your show that your taking to the Camden fringe?

It’s based on my chronic tendency of picking up new hobbies/skills but not ever reaching expert status. Jack of all trades, master of none kind of deal.

Tell us a little bit about your style of show?

It’s a one person theatre show incorporating musical comedy (keyboard, guitar and harp), physical theatre and ventriloquism. The protagonist, Fin, interacts with voice over characters similar to the staged version of Fleabag.

What will your set be about?

The show is based on the imposter syndrome I felt when I was asked to give a speech to the graduating students at my old high school. Although I’ve had success with my acting previously, I’m not at a level in my career where I could comfortably impart words of wisdom upon anyone. I’ve tried to keep a few degrees of separation from the protagonist Fin, who is pursuing a music career instead.

What other acts are you looking forward to seeing at the fringe?

I’m excited for Kayleigh Jones in ‘I Fed My Dad To A Pelican.’ Kayleigh’s musical comedy inspires me and she very kindly mentored me on the comedy scene in London when I first moved.

Have you done the fringe before? What have been some of your favourite shows to date and why?

This is my Camden Fringe debut! I’m from Perth, Western Australia and our Fringe festival is well established. I love the atmosphere around Fringe time so I’m very much looking forward to being amongst it all. 

What advice would you give to others who want to perform at Camden Fringe next year?

If it all seems overwhelming then just do one tiny step towards the show every day. I think it’s about turning up consistently which brings about progress.

What is the best thing about performing at the Camden fringe?

For me, there’s always a buzz around Fringe time, getting to perform in front of/support other artists. I’m constantly inspired and in awe of the level of creativity and talent that is on display.

London can be an expensive place to perform in – what key advice would you give to performers that is a sort of life hack?

If you can, call in favours from friends – I had help with photography, poster editing and tech just by telling people about my show. It might surprise you how many hidden talents your friends have up their sleeves which can save you a lot of money in the long run.

What are your three favourite things about Camden?

My favourite things about Camden are the incredible sense of artistry, vibrancy and community.

Favourite one liner you have done in a show and why?

“Do I give off Sideshow Bob vibes?” 

One of my favourite lines because it was based on when I was stopped by a marketing girl who told me I looked like Sideshow Bob.

Who would be your ultimate dream audience member?

Fans of musical comedians such as Tim Minchin, Flight of the Conchords and Bo Burnham. 

The iconic image of the Camden Fringe is the Pigeon – if you could call this years pigeon a name to represent its style what would it be and why?

Larry because he has a bit of swagger but ultimately he’s studious and going to be reliable. 

If people want to find out more about you where can they follow you on social media?

My handle is glennwallis_ on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube. 

And Finally in three words – Why should people come and see the show? 

Music…Comedy… Madness