It is festival season and that means that in the next month there is so many great comedy festivals to look forward to! This month we are looking at some of the great shows that you can see at the Edinburgh Fringe. So take note because we are going to give you all the information you need for just a handful of some of the great shows happening this year!

Arturo Brachetti: SOLO

Location:   Pleasance at EICC – Lennox (Venue 150)

Dates: Jul 31st, Aug 1st-6th, 8th-12th, 14th-20th, 22nd-25th

Time: various times

Price: £20 Concessions £17.50

Ticket Link: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/arturo-brachetti-solo

Hello! Tell us about yourself?

I love to describe myself as a “fantasticactor,” an actor of fantasy. In my shows, I bring to the stage a mix of illusion, emotions, quick-change, ancient and modern techniques, and wonder. Throughout my career, I have performed on stages around the world, received awards and nominations (including two for the Laurence Olivier Awards) and I hold  the Guinness World Record for the fastest costume change.

However, stepping onto the stage and meeting the audience is always a great thrill, and even more so at the Fringe, which is the one of most important festivals in the world. I love to share my creativity and dreams with the audience!

Tell us all about your show!

SOLO is a large theatrical production in which I invite audiences into my fantasy world via a doll-like house using visual poetry and provoke strong emotions as I share intimate moments of my growing up. Each room transforms into an actual number and is an occasion to explore and recount memories of my childhood using a range of iconic characters that influenced my growing up.

Shifting from one character to another in the blink of an eye, and using seamless costume changes to portray characters from Beyoncé to Batman and Micheal Jackson to Sherlock Holmes…among others. But I stress quick change is used as a vehicle to forward story telling as it is acted out.

The show also includes hand shadow puppetry, sand painting, and even a choreographed laser duel. I try to show my artistry as a multi-talented artist to keep the audience wondering, not only how does I do it, but what will I do next.

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

SOLO is a common word used worldwide and has the same meaning in nearly all languages: Only or Alone. On stage, in SOLO, you see me alone only with my Shadow (played by the actor Kevin Michael Moore).

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

I love theatre and discovering new artist and acts! I will most definitely spend all my free time seeing as many shows as I can once there. I have performed before at the Fringe Festival and it was and is an incredible occasion to see new trends, discover talents, meet international artist from all over and, of course, networking.

Have you done the fringe before? What are the key pieces of advice you have been given or would give to new groups or people performing at the fringe. And if you haven’t, how are you gearing up for it? 

Well, I’ve been to Fringe in 2006 so a long time ago, it’s probably another era. So it’s like being for the first time. Suggestions? Yes, enjoy and just be part of the big energy of Fringe.

Talk us through your daily routine for a day at the Fringe.

I wake up….late, grab an espresso and biscuits, exercise, eat lunch, explore if I am on tour, rest,  then bike to the show.

What is the best way to enjoy yourself at the fringe?

To get caught up in and feel the vibrant excitement and fantastic energy, and just go with it! And to supporting other artists!

Ok, where is your favourite place to eat at the Fringe?

At home after a trip to Sainsbury or Waitrose.

Best thing about performing at the Fringe?

Being part of an international event representing many artists and spectators from all over the world, and having the possibility to perform in front of them live.

Top tips for travelling around the Fringe and getting to shows on time?

When I get there I will let you know…. Definitely leave 15min earlier than you have plan. I will bring my electric bike to help navigate my way around.

What would be your top three items every performer must take to the fringe?

A cell phone Navigator, an open mind, and a good raincoat!

What’s the secret to successful flyering?

A good spiel! 

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

Facebook @Arturo Brachetti Official

Web: http://www.brachetti.com 

Instagram @arturobrachetti

TikTok ArturoBrachettiOfficial

YouTube: arturobrachetti

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

Uniqueness. Wonder. Fun.