Tom Parry talks about bringing BEETLEMANIA to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival

Name: Tom Parry
Name of Edinburgh show: Beetlemania – Kafka For Kids
Venue: Pleasance Dome – Queen Dome
Performance time: 13.15
Dates: August 1 –26
Show length: 60 mins
Ticket price: £9 – £14

Can you tell me a little bit about yourself and your performing background?
I’m chiefly a comedian. I’m one third of sketch group Pappys and my first solo stand up show was nominated for best newcomer in 2015.

Tell me about your show, what it is all about?
Beetlemania: Kafka For Kids is a riotous gang show about a group of idiots who are trying to take the stories of Kafka and turn them into a children’s show. It’s a surprising and daft comedy show for kids and adults alike!

How long have you been working on this show and what is it that makes it relevant to audiences in 2018?
We’ve been working on it since January. In the age of Instagram and snap chat It’s a really good time to be telling kids stories that don’t have happy endings and that have dark twisted narratives. And sadly in this time of Fake News- Kafka has never been more relevant.

Do you have any top tips for surviving the Edinburgh Fringe Festival – both for performers and visitors to the event?
Early to bed!! It’s advice I give but never take. It’s good for your voice, for your energy but it’s so much fun staying up late.

What has been the funniest or most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to you on stage?
Oh lord! Where to start! I once ate too large a Nando’s before an Edinburgh preview, ran onstage and jumped into a squat position and immediately pooed myself. That was probably the funniest AND most embarrassing to ever happen to me onstage.

Who are your biggest inspirations in the industry and why?
I love those acts who can turn themselves to anything and who keep returning to the fringe and experimenting. People like Phil Nichol, Brigette Christie, Asam Riches. People who see Edinburgh for what it is- a reason to make work and not an industry stepping stone.

Do you have any pre-show rituals?
I always choose three songs that for that month will soundtrack my walk to the venue. The same songs everyday. Then it’s Steam my voice, put on a yellow t shirt and on we go!!!

What other acts are you looking forward to seeing at Edinburgh Fringe?
Lazy Susan are the most exciting sketch double act I’ve seen in years and they’re back with a new show. Also the Australian one man sketch phenomenon Steen Raskopoulis has a show this year that is very very special.

Why do you think people should come and see your show over the thousands of others on at the fringe?
Because it’s never been done before! Because it’s a show based on a ridiculous and potentially flawed idea! Will we succeed? But mainly because it’s a really funny show. We’ve been really giggling in rehearsals everyday.

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