EDINBURGH 2017: BWW Q&A- Prom Kween

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Prom Kween is a new musical based on the true story of the first ever non binary kid to win the coveted title at his high school. It's a coming of age comedy for anyone who felt as though they didn't fit in at school...and loves glitter.

Why make it into a show?

My writing partner Jo and I have been wanting to write a musical together for ages, but we never had:
a) the time, or
b) anything we felt passionately about.

Last year problem b) was solved when I came across this story. It felt so culturally relevant, especially considering how our country/America appears to be going backwards in terms of acceptance. Not to mention it conjured up for me memories of Grease, Hairspray, 10 Things I Hate About You...all my favourites.

Problem a) was still a problem for us-we are two extremely busy people but we felt so passionate about the project we had to make it work. And we have!

Tell us a bit about the creative team.

Well, Jo and I worked together on my sell out solo show, 'Dizney Rascal' in 2014. Since then she has gone on to musically direct 'Oliver!' at the Leicester Curve, 'Side Show' at Southwark Playhouse and is currently working on the West End production of 'An American in Paris'. Myself, I have since worked at the National Theatre, Donmar Warehouse, Royal Exchange, Royal Court and have just finished a stint at the RSC. We approached our producer, Aine Flanagan, as we were both huge fans of her cult hit 'Margaret Thatcher: Queen of Soho' and the latest sell out 'How to Win Against History'.

What sets it apart from other shows at the Fringe?

Of course I think there are many aspects of the show that are amazing. But having already performed it in development at the Vault Festival earlier this year, I think I can say the cast will be a big draw. They are totally stupendous. Between us, we have played lead roles at all of the aforementioned theatres, as well as the Almeida, for BBC comedy, ITV drama, we have award winners amongst us, and have collective experience in the worlds of stand up, theatre, TV, radio.......the show is incredibly lucky for that. I can't believe we've managed it.

Who would you recommend comes to see you?

Is it naff to say everyone?! Yes it is. Ok, what I'll say instead is with us you're getting a fun, visceral Fringe experience that we intend to make so much more than a 'sit quietly and watch for an hour' job. Anyone who likes comedy, music, theatre, drag, fun, naughtiness, mischief. Anyone who likes to be tickled, surprised, appalled, and in a room filled with others who like the same...which is sort of everyone who visits the fringe isn't it?!

Timings and ticket information for Prom Kween are available on the Underbelly website.

Photo credit: Max Lacome.