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!

Kelly McCaughan: Catholic Guilt

Location:   Underbelly, Bristo Square – Clover (Venue 302)

Dates: Jul 31st, Aug 1st-11th, 13th-25th

Time: 22:00

Price: £10 Concessions £9

Ticket Link: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/kelly-mccaughan-catholic-guilt

Hello! Tell us about yourself? 

Where to begin?! I’m originally from Pittsburgh, PA and I dig collaboration and play. Is this turning into a poem? Anyway, I’d say my happy place is being in the crowd at a dope summer concert. I’m most happy when I’m creating and hanging with buds. I love cheese, making people laugh/feel good. Fun fact: I’m also a licensed massage therapist! What else do you want to know? Come ask me at my show (see how I brought the poem back? Genius.)!

Tell us all about your show!

My show is an absolute hoot. It’s a wet n’ wild clown show about my experience with Catholicism. There are many twists and turns and surprising moments. You will be falling out of your chair laughing one second and will be punched in the gut the next. It sold out last year and I’m bringing an even better version of if this year! 

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

I wanted to keep it simple. I wanted people to look at the poster/listing and be like, “Oh! I know what that is and I’m going to laugh.”

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

I’m excited to see as much comedy as possible and I really can’t wait to check out shows at Summerhall this year! 

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.

My first time was last year. I would say to go into the fringe with no expectations other than to have fun. Try to enjoy the experience as much as possible. It is a very vulnerable intense process but it’s also so much fun! Be proud of yourself for making it all happen. 

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

I like to sleep in late and have a slow morning. I usually get a little lunch and then try to catch a show late afternoon. I usually try to eat something small for dinner and then I’ll get ready to go flier for a few hours before my show. After my show, I usually go check out a later show or grab a drink. Once I finally get home for the night, I do all my laundry for my show because my costume gets super messy. I’ll have a late-night snack while figuring out what shows I want to see the next day, then I hit the sack. Last year I had a late time slot and this year I do too so I imagine my routine will be similar. 

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

Go in with no expectations and see as much stuff as possible! Take care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. 

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

Oh damn, there are so many good spots. I’m a big fan of Thai food and there was a spot right by my venue that had some of the best: Ting Thai

Best thing about performing at the fringe?

Meeting other artists and becoming friends, getting to explore Edinburgh, and getting to do your show every night for a new group of people for an entire month! Every audience is different and it’s so much fun to try new things throughout the run and play with the crowd. 

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

I really loved the bus system. I thought it was super easy to use. Try not to schedule back-to-back shows. Give yourself time to travel to another venue so you’re not rushed. 

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

A rain jacket, warm comfy clothes, Aquaphor

What is the secret to successful flyering? 

Just be genuine and have a conversation with people. I found that leading with a question always helps. 

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

Instagram: @kelly_mccaughan Twitter: @kellymccaughan

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

It’s f****** hilarious.