Fresh from making a splash on the Australian Fringe scene and appearing on The Voice Australia comes Arthur Hull, who is making his Fringe debut at the Gilded Balloon.
Here Arthur explains why his show is a celebration of the worst musicals ever written.
Tell us about your show. Why should we go and see it?
‘FLOP’ is a love letter to musicals. I have watched so many ‘Hits of Broadway’ type shows, where a performer comes out with a waistcoat and an accompanist, and sings all of the same songs that everyone has heard before. ‘Phantom’, ‘Les Mis’ and ‘Cats’.
Being a musical theatre lover and nerd for my whole life, I thought, “What about all of the incredible shows that never had the same financial, critical or commercial success?”.
While looking into these flops, I just kept finding more and more examples of brilliant songs that have never seen the light of day. So, this show explores why and how these musicals misfired, each with their own tumultuous story and all while bringing these fantastic songs to a new audience.
What is your favorite thing about your show?
I introduce these incredible songs to a whole new audience, giving them a fresh interpretation and hopefully making them sound like the hits they should have been.
Do you have a Fringe idol?
Tim Minchin. He has influenced my music and my performance style immensely. I feel very lucky to be performing at the Gilded Balloon 20 years after his celebrtaed debut at the same venue.
What three words best describe your performance style – and why?
Energetic. Honest. Passionate.
In my show I attempt to evoke the buzz of watching a big Broadway musical.
Who are you looking forward to seeing in Edinburgh?
Reuben Moreland’s show ‘Abracadabra B!tch’ at The Pleasance. We shared a venue at the Adelaide Fringe and I loved his show.
At the Gilded Balloon, Jack Docherty and Alan Davies are top of my list!
What do you hope to achieve in Edinburgh – what are your hopes and dreams?
First and foremost, not to lose my life savings. Otherwise, to grow as an artist by performing as much as I can, and by seeing as many shows as time allows.
What do you hope the audience will take away after an hour in your company?
I hope I’m giving them the Spotify playlist they never knew they needed.
How do you plan to relax and recharge when not on stage?
A long walk up my own seat.
What is your idea of a perfect Fringe day?
Well, this is my first Fringe, so I’m excited to discover what my perfect Fringe day will be.
Perhaps an abuse-free day of flyering on the Royal Mile will be a good start?
Arthur Hull’s FLOP: The Best Songs From The Worst Musicals Ever Written, 20:45 Gilded Balloon, July 30 – August 24
Tickets here:
