Tom Hannah talks about his Edinburgh Fringe Festival show

Name: Tom Hannah
Name of Edinburgh show: Tom Hannah
Venue: Jury’s Inn
Performance time: 1705-1755
Show length: 50 minutes
Ticket price: £7

Can you tell me a little bit about yourself and your performing background?
I have been working as a jazz guitarist for many years. Since 2010 I have been working with cafe jazz band Chico Chica. In the live show I used to insert ‘jazz rap’ novelty items. These proved popular but they somehow detracted from the band’s ethic so I decided to form a one man show. I am also able to include songs which other band members thought were a little too outré.

Tell me about your show, what it is all about?
For each song I am in character so they are dramatic monologues and vignettes on modern life.

How long have you been working on this show and what is it that makes it relevant to audiences in 2018?
The songs touch on subjects such as negotiation, modesty, health, vanity, divorce and the obvious Brexit.

Some of the songs date back to 2014, others I wrote this year.

Do you have any top tips for surviving the Edinburgh Fringe Festival – both for performers and visitors to the event?
This will be my first time as a performer. As a punter last year, I found it better to eschew the itinerary and to trust serendipity, to wander aimlessly and catch whichever show in the vicinity is about to start.

What has been the funniest or most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to you on stage?
I once started an guitar introduction and the band couldn’t remember the song was meant to be. They joined in anyway and it became a psychedelic free jazz jam.

Who are your biggest inspirations in the industry and why?
Edinburghian A.A.Gill was Britain’s most talented writer until his untimely death in 2016 and I still feel his loss. I wish I could be more like him. I admire Jarvis Cocker for his sense of style, and Gabriela Quintero has had a big influence on my rhythm guitar style.

Do you have any pre-show rituals?
I drink espresso coffee and tune my guitar.

What other acts are you looking forward to seeing at Edinburgh Fringe?
Alex Cofield – I like the idea of a show which has an over-arching story running through so I hope to pick up some tips.

Why do you think people should come and see your show over the thousands of others on at the fringe?
The show is hard to catergorise and I genuinely trying to do something different. My musician friends back in London are intrigued.

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