Sam Lake, originally from Cornwall and now based in Edinburgh has written a show about what happened when his mum died when he was 18 years old. Now 30 he also confesses about coming out – as Spanish.
Tell us about your show. Why should we go and see it?
My show, Esméralda, is a fun romp through my mum & me’s relationship. She passed away when I was 18 from breast cancer. 14 years on, and I feel like doing a show to make her proud and also highlight where I got my sense of silliness from. It’s also about TV and learning Spanish.
What makes you laugh?
Nothing will ever be funnier than what the internet collectively decides is funny. I’m talking historic Vine compilations, “pop culture moments we never forget about”, “iconic moments of British TV”. I love things that are unintentionally funny and a bit stupid.
What three words best describe your performance style – and why?
Stood upright, talking.
Do you have nerves about going on stage and how do you cope with them?
I do have nerves but the nerves aren’t the same as when I started. I’ve subscribed to Nerves+, a great new service where my nerves are consolidated into easily manageable instalments. I used to have the nerves associated with just going on a stage and talking, now they’re more about whether this new bit I’ve got is going to work.
What’s your idea of a perfect Fringe feast and where will you eat it?
That would be any meal I have in my own home which is in Edinburgh where I live all year round. Even if it’s a humble yoghurt, I’m in my own home with my own things and peace of mind. If I have to eat out, I do love the mac and cheese stand that pops up every year. Mac & Cheese with a pinch of black pudding.
How will your audience think/feel differently after an hour in your company?
In all seriousness, my shows can be quite light-hearted and silly but this year I’m also trying to show a different side to myself, a little peek behind my curtains, figuratively speaking (mostly). MY ultimate goal is to make people feel like they just saw something personal but moving and fun. Like Moana. I’d like to be Moana please.
When did you first realise you were born to be on stage?
I’m still waiting for someone to tell me I’m not for the stage to be honest.
Why do you think Edinburgh Fringe is so important to performers and artists around the world?
At it’s best, the Fringe is the ultimate free for all of talented people showing what they can do. But to keep it the best, something has to be done about all the barriers to entry. Extortionate costs on rent, venue fees, marketing and lack of accessible venues/services.
How do you plan to relax and enjoy the city when you’re not performing.
Once again, by staying in my own home. It’s really nice there and no one hands me a flyer for a general election themed, college acapella musical called “West-Side Tory”
Who is your showbiz idol and why.
Oooooh, it changes. Right now it’s probably Nicola Coughlan – the current definition of iconic. Someday I dream of having a random thing I say in an interview go viral after it’s been made into a dance single.
What is your idea of a perfect Fringe moment?
Probably that moment where Phoebe Waller Bridge herself stands up in the middle of the show and declares it the campest in all the land. Then says “Well done you lil twinky thing, you beat the Fringe!” and she hands me £50,000 in unmarked bank notes.
Sam Lake: Esméralda – 13.30, Monkey Barrel 2, until August 25
