Image credit: Trevor Paul

With more than four million followers across social media and sold-out audiences around the world, Mario Adrion brings his debut Fringe show, Live A Little, to Edinburgh. The US-based German comedian and former fashion model explores everything from the modelling industry and modern masculinity to relationships, shame and learning to laugh at life’s most uncomfortable moments. We caught up with Mario ahead of his Fringe debut to find out more.

Every show begins with an initial spark. What was the original idea, moment or experience that made you create this piece?

My show explores the modelling industry and sexual assault from a male perspective. Years ago, I told a friend about my own experience, and instead of judging me, he opened up about his own insecurities. That conversation made me realize that vulnerability is contagious. When one person is honest, it gives others permission to be honest too. I also discovered that the more tension you create, the more room there is for laughter.

What can audiences expect when they step into this world?

First and foremost, they should expect to laugh. Imagine Zoolander colliding with a more personal, darker coming-of-age story. It’s packed with absurd modelling stories, but underneath the jokes it’s really about identity, validation and learning to be yourself. It’s ultimately an uplifting show, not one about trauma, but about what comes after it.

The Edinburgh Fringe is a place where artists and audiences come together from across the world. Why is this the right place for this show?

The Fringe rewards shows that take risks. My story is very specific: a German male model navigating fashion, fame and assault, but the themes are universal. Edinburgh audiences are incredibly open-minded, and I think they’re willing to laugh at uncomfortable things as long as the comedy is honest. That’s exactly the kind of audience this show was written for.

What is something about the show that the audience might not immediately notice, but you hope they discover?

At first glance, a show about male modelling doesn’t sound very relatable. But underneath, it’s about people-pleasing, seeking validation, family relationships and learning to accept yourself. Those are experiences almost everyone has had in one way or another. I love watching people realize the show isn’t really about modelling at all.

What has surprised you most about creating this piece?

I was surprised by how much laughter can come from the darkest subjects when they’re approached honestly. Sexual assault is one of the hardest topics imaginable, yet audiences often laugh the hardest immediately after the most uncomfortable moments. That release reminds me that comedy isn’t about avoiding difficult conversations, it’s one of the best ways to have them.

When your audience walks home, what would you love them to still be talking about?

The obvious answer is that I hope they remember the jokes. But beyond that, I hope they leave feeling a little more comfortable being honest about the parts of themselves they’re usually afraid to talk about. If they also leave thinking, “I didn’t expect a show by a former male model to have that much heart,” then I’ve done my job.

Mario Adrion: Live A Little
Pleasance Courtyard – Attic / Two & Cabaret Bar
20.30
5-22 August