EDINBURGH 2016: BWW Q&A - Dame Nature

BWW speaks to Tim Bell about 2016 Edinburgh Fringe show Dame Nature: The Magnificent Bearded Lady.

Tell us a bit about Dame Nature

Unfortunately for Dame Nature, she doesn't get out much. If Joe Public see the beard without paying, the whole act is blown. So she's normally confined to dressing room until the big reveal. Her show at Edinburgh is a really big deal. It's a chance for her to tell people a bit about the real lady behind the beard - her hopes, fears and aspirations for the future. And her love of Phil Collins.

Why did you decide to bring it to Edinburgh?

It's a magical festival in a magical city. You're never more than a turn-of-a-corner away from an incredible performance or an inspiring view.

How does Dame Nature tackle gender stereotypes?

Right from the get-go, gender is in the spotlight. The first thing you see when you walk in is a man, playing a woman, with a beard, in a dress, with a hairy chest. So there's a lot to think about. As the show progresses, I hope you begin to ask yourself if you judge people by the way they look, if you yourself are judged by the way you look, and what effect our labelling of people's appearance might have on them. Dame Nature longs to be a 'normal' person. But that, in itself, is a trap.

Who would you recommend comes to see Dame Nature?

People who like stand-up comedy, people who are interested in the issue of gender objectification, people who want to see a show with soul, people who want to think, people who enjoy all things silly. And Phil Collins fans.

Are there any other shows you're hoping to catch in Edinburgh?

LOADS. I'm a Bristol Ferment artist - it's an incredible network of performers supported by Bristol Old Vic. Any of the artists developed through Ferment are always worth seeing. Also, Stewart Lee, Daniel Kitson and Rachel Parris are all high on my list.

Timings and ticket information for Dame Nature: The Magnificent Bearded lady are available on the edfringe website.