Michael Brunstrom is one of the few alternative comedy acts on the circuit you can genuinely say is like nobody else.
Past shows have seem him perform as a European river and impersonate airports. At this year’s Edinburgh Fringe his subject is Constables’ picture The Hay Wain, although I imagine he’s the only person to have ever combined it with beach balls.
Hello. How are you today?
I’m well, thank you. More to the point: how are you?
Are you ready for another month of Edinburgh Fringe action?
More than ready. My show’s been simmering for quite a while, so I can’t wait to unleash it on the public. That’s a mixed metaphor, in which my show is simultaneously a pan of soup and some sort of wild animal.
At this stage, how closely does your programme blurb match the content of your show?
They match precisely. The programme blurb promises an hour-long comedy show about John Constable’s ‘The Hay Wain’ (1821). This is what my show delivers.
What are your tips for getting people to see your show?
I’m going to do most of my flyering dressed as a cello. I’m also selling promotional Hay Wain beach balls. I’ve no idea if this will get people to see my show, but it’s something.
Who are you sharing a flat with this festival and how will you help each other survive the month?
I will be living on my own. This will help every performer at the festival survive the month.
Any shows you’re particularly excited about seeing?
I’m intrigued by ‘Beautiful Ducks’ at the Free Sisters. It’s an inspirational talk by waterfowl enthusiast Liz Wright.
Other than the great shows, what else are you looking forward to about your trip to Edinburgh this year?
Impromptu greetings and spontaneous adventures; the heavy once-red velvet curtain of a dusty cellar venue; the sun glinting off the roofs of Waverley; tall sash windows peering from olive-grey walls; a beer-soaked flyer lying in a Cowgate gutter; the smell of melancholy at an outdoor beer garden… you know, the little things.
What’s your topping at The Baked Potato Shop on Cockburn Street?
Thanks for asking. This is the first year at the Fringe that I’ve been asked to supply a topping for the Baked Potato Shop on Cockburn Street. My topping evokes a Mediterranean mood, combining feta, olives and sun dried tomatoes. Ask for the ‘Michael Brunström’. I hope you all enjoy it.
Here’s a space to write about anything you want. Go for it.
If you would like to buy a Hay Wain beach ball, visit my website.
Michael Brunstrom: The Hay Wain Reloaded
Heroes @ Dragonly
4-13 August, 6pm
PWYW or £5 to guarantee entry
Categories: Comedy blog, Edinburgh Fringe, Fringe interviews, Interviews
Michael Brunstrom – A true original, and what’s more he’s very funny!