Tell us about your show. Why should we go and see it?
This is my fourth solo hour at the Edinburgh Fringe and it’s my silliest and most fun one yet, I’m really excited to bring it up to the Fringe audiences, I always have such lovely folk coming to see me in Edinburgh.
It’s about arms, animals and independence and it has a frankly preposterous number of jokes in it.
You should come see it because if you dont I will break your arm!
What are your hopes and dreams for the Fringe?.
For me: Big, fun audiences who love a laugh. Weather that’s pleasant but not too good, so indoors is still the best place. Many visits to the cat cafe on Grassmarket. Getting given the keys to the city, or just the castle if that’s more realistic.
For the fringe: Adjustments to the status quo to make the festival more financially rewarding for acts and prevent anyone going into debt to put on their show and more accessible venues.
What makes you laugh?
When I was a child a goose bit my sister and it was amazing, tough for anything to match it.
What three words best describe your performance style – and why.
Supple – I’m an adaptable performer and a natural gymnast.
Punchy – I have a very high gag rate and I might challenge you to a boxing match.
Dangerous – I’m trying to garner a reputation as the most dangerous woman in comedy, so far it’s just been me telling people I’m dangerous and them laughing in my face. That’s why I’ve decided to start breaking arms this year.
How will your audience think/feel differently after an hour in your company?
I hope they’ll feel happier and more jolly when they leave, I just want to tell them a silly tale that makes them laugh. I’m not trying to make a big spiritual point, unless the point is Adele Cliff is funny (and super cool). Although, I would like them to leave feeling awed by me generally.
What kind of shows – apart from your own – are you looking forward to seeing at the Edinburgh Fringe?
I can’t wait to see a bunch of other comedy shows including Tom Mayhew, Louise Atkinson, Sikisa and Stuart Laws. I love seeing American and Australian stand ups too as it’s so cool to see what different elements they’re bringing in from other big comedy markets.
I also want to see some circus and, at some point, I’m going to a Seance!
The cost of living is a big issue this year – will it make this Fringe more challenging?
Yes – the fringe has always been very financially challenging for acts and it’s only getting worse. There have been some new bursaries available from various places this year and I hope they help the recipients take some of the strain off. It is something the Fringe should be looking at as a huge priority, it’s a big threat to the continuing quality and diversity of the festival.
What do you predict will emerge as the big themes of this year.
I’m sure a lot of shows will have a focus on climate change, neurodivergence and the cost of living. Those certainly feel like big topics in the previews I’ve seen and what I’ve heard chatting to other comedians.
My big theme this year is arms, loads and loads of arm stuff.
Who is your showbiz idol and why.
Uggie the dog. Scene stealing, showbiz icon, always looked great on the red carpet.
What is your idea of a perfect Fringe moment?
Running into Mum’s Comfort food just as it starts tipping it down outside to meet a friend for a catch up over sausages and mash. Heaven!
Show Details
Adele Cliff Can Break Your Arm
5.05pm (1 hr)
3rd-27th Aug (not 14th)
Tickets are pay what you can (£5 advance)
Just The Tonic at the Caves (venue 88)
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/adele-cliff-can-break-your-arm
