Image: Jennifer Forward-Hayter
Skank Sinatra! You are bringing your show How to Succeed in Show Business Without Really Trying to the Edinburgh Fringe audiences this August.
Tell us about your piece; what inspired you to create this?
After touring my first show internationally for two and a half years, winning all the awards possible and receiving far too many 5 star reviews, I reached the only reasonable conclusion: I had won life. And when you become an international icon, it would be selfish not to teach everyone else how to do the same. So this show is my giving back to the world. My masterclass.
How lucky we are! What can audiences expect from this masterclass?
Martinis, magnificent costumes, glorious music and a voice that will put a lump in your throat, and occasionally one in mine.
Why is Edinburgh Fringe the right place for this show?
Skank Sinatra is THE international diva… she sings in three languages and yodels in four. Edinburgh brings the entire world into one city, so statistically, someone may finally understand what I’m saying.
What might audiences not immediately notice, but you hope they discover?
They may not immediately notice how humble I am, largely because I don’t like to draw attention to it. Once audiences have fully appreciated my beauty, talent, resilience and cultural importance, I hope they also recognise that I have remained remarkably grounded throughout.
What has surprised you most about creating this piece?
I knew I would sound good singing this material, but I didn’t anticipate how good. I would say the aural soundscape of this now show verges on historically significant.
What would you love audiences to still be talking about on the walk home?
Whether they feel inspired, empowered or personally attacked, above all, I want them to understand that even without natural beauty or talent, success is still possible – and the full solution is available for approximately the price of one ticket.
Skank Sinatra: How to Succeed in Show Business Without Really Trying
Assembly George Square Studios, Underground
18.30
6 – 30 Aug