Tell us about your show. Why should we go and see it?
BORIS THE THIRD is inspired by the true story of Boris Johnson playing the role of Richard III when he was 18 years old at Eton. Apparently, he didn’t learn his lines and so resorted to clowning and improvising his way through the whole thing with what has now become his trademark bluster. Boris III is an imagining of that that play might have been like. It’s funny and provocative. And, hopefully, relevant. I’ll be rewriting it and updating it week by week as current events unfold.
Are you flying solo or are you part of a team?
Always a team! A cast of six are going to bring Boris’ antics to life. I’ve always preferred to work with troupes and crews rather than fly solo.
What are your hopes and dreams for the Fringe?
I think I can call myself a veteran of the Fringe now (15 years)? It always surprises, delights, exhausts, and educates. After the last couple of years I think what most of us are looking for is fun. Hopefully, this play will deliver that and more.
What makes you laugh?
Laurel and Hardy, The Marx Brothers, This Country, Stath Lets Flats, Veep, People Just Do Nothing… And in general – falling over and pomposity being punctured. I also (I hope) laugh at myself. I like self-deprecating humour.
What is it that made you a performer?
Avoiding sports.
How will your audience think/feel differently after an hour in your company?
I don’t think it’s up to me to answer that. I’ve written a play, which I think is entertaining and thought-provoking, but the audience will decide what they think and feel, not me. I believe theatre is really about the audience experience – anything else is an indulgence.
Whose show – apart from your own – are you looking forward to seeing at the Edinburgh Fringe?
My dear friends from Mischief Theatre. I’m excited for Charlie Russell and Henry Lewis having their own shows this year.
What’s the most useful piece of advice you’ve been given?
For the Fringe? Pace yourself. For life in general? Errr pace yourself.
Do you have a favourite Fringe memory?
In a performance of Showstopper at the Gilded Balloon one year, I found myself playing David Cameron, riding a llama and singing a song in the style about David Bowie. It was so ludicrous I had to stop because we were all laughing so much. It was a ‘how did I ever get here?’‘ moment. I will never forget it.
Who is your showbiz/Fringe idol and why.
I’ve always loved seeing Scott Capurro take on an audience. Thrilling, skilful, and dangerous. Great fun.
Adam Meggido writer of Boris III
