Once part of the award winning LEGS ensemble with superstar clown Julia Masli, the Duncan Brothers have based this year’s show on finding out they share a genetic condition which causes them to have too much iron in their blood. Now both undergoing regular blood-letting they decided to use this mediaeval practice as the basis for a comedy show in which they form a Blood Sword. What can we say. The Duncan Brothers are idiots. Who are also very funny.
Tell us about your show. Why should we go and see it?
The tale of two brothers who have a Celtic Curse, that can only be broken by the power of the Blood Sword.
What is it? It is our theatrical version of an 80’s futuro-medieval epic movie, only with bigger plot holes. Held together by idiot brothers.
Why did we make it? We have a genetic condition known as the “Celtic Curse” and thought let’s make a theatre show about it, but because we are idiots we made a comedic theatre show.
What makes you laugh?
When my brother forgets his lines and starts digging a huge hole for himself. Also the fact that our absurd show is partnered with a charity to raise awareness for a genetic condition.
What three words best describe your performance style – and why?
Two Idiot Brothers – There are two of us, we are Idiots and we are brothers.
Do you have nerves about going on stage and how do you cope with them.
Yes, I normally cope with them by doing an ancient ritual with my brother before the show to channel the power of those we love.
What’s your idea of a perfect Fringe feast and where will you eat it?
A whole pan of frozen dumplings at my student accommodation.
How will your audience think/feel differently after an hour in your company?
We love the absurd and our shows can make audiences confused – hopefully in a good way – about what was real, what was planned and what went on. We are at our best when we show we are real brothers having the most ridiculous fun trying to do a show.
When did you first realise you were born to be on stage?
Growing up we would perform/show-off at family gatherings and at some memorable annual Burns night parties where we found our love for being laughed at, for our ridiculousness.
Why do you think Edinburgh Fringe is so important to performers and artists around the world?
We learnt how to perform here. It is expensive but it also a true Fringe where you don’t need anyone’s permission to perform. Audiences want to see something that takes a risk and we love that. Now after coming back for the seventh time we also feel so lucky to part of a creative community that comes together from round the world and all different backgrounds. (The Fringe needs to do more to keep it affordable – it feels crazy Free Fringe shows have to pay the same fee as ticketed shows, We were privileged to receive a Keep-it-Fringe grant, which has really helped us enjoy it this year)
How do you plan to relax and enjoy the city when you’re not performing.
I love running up Arthur’s Seat , its amazing to have nature so close to the city.
Who is your showbiz idol and why.
My Mum isn’t in showbusiness so it has to be my brother, who I find so funny to see on stage.
What is your idea of a perfect Fringe moment?
When Fringe punters take a risk and end up in a free fringe show that they want to walk out of for the first five minutes. But if they stick with it by the end have seen something they will remember forever.
The Duncan Brothers: Blood Sword, 21.30, Underbelly Cowgate, until August 25
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/duncan-brothers-blood-sword
Andrew Duncan is also performing a solo show: Andy Andy with Andy, 16.30 Hoots@ Potterrow
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/andy-andy-with-andy
Rob Duncan’s Solo Show The Basement Child is Banshee Labyrinth at Midnight
