Showstopper! The Improvised Musical has been delighting Fringe audiences for an astonishing seventeen years. Since making its debut in 2008 cast members have made up more than 1,500 musicals – completely improvised from audience suggestions.
Co creator and director Adam Meggido tells us why the formula works – and how the multi-talented cast keep the magic alive.
Tell us about your show. Why should we go and see it?
It’s very very funny. And often moving too! It’s a musical – a full-on musical with all the pizazz and shine of a west end musical BUT everything is entirely, 100% made up on the spot. It’s all improvised – the music, the lyrics, the dialogue, the dance, the story – everything made up out of audience suggestions. People who love musicals love the show because they get a brand new musical made specially for them AND people who don’t like musicals say they love the show because it deconstructs and has fun with the form of a musical. So it’s for everyone!
What is your favourite thing about your show?
It’s completely different every night. You have no idea where it’s going to be set, what it’s going to be about, what characters you are going to play. We are making up the story as we go along, from the inside. There’s nothing like it in the world.
Do you have a Fringe idol?
Gotta be our dear friend and genius Nina Conti. Always make sure you see her show. Also Derevo.
What three words best describe your performance style – and why?
Fresh. Fast. Funny.
We aim impossibly high so that when we hit it’s amazing and when we miss it’s hilarious. An amazing troupe of performers who genuinely love doing the show will stop at nothing to entertain you!
Who are you looking forward to seeing in Edinburgh?
I want to discover someone new. In recent years I’ve loved seeing Cat Cohen, Ben Moor, Nina Conti, Derevo, Gary Starr… but it’s the element of surprise discovery that keeps you coming back for more.
What do you hope to achieve in Edinburgh – what are your hopes and dreams?
Well… we’ve achieved our hopes and dreams! We created a sell-out must-see phenomenon that transferred to the west end and is still the only improv show in the world to ever win an Olivier award. So the dream happened and we’re all delighted. BUT we keep playing Edinburgh every year simply because we love it.
What are the biggest obstacles you face as a performer at the Fringe?
Rising costs are affecting everyone. I’m saddened that it will prevent so many people from bringing their work to the Fringe, especially young and emerging artists. We must do all we can to protect the essence of the Fringe.
What do you hope the audience will take away after an hour in your company?
A warm smile and an uplifted soul.
How do you plan to relax and recharge when not on stage?
Foodie magic at some of Edinburgh’s great restuarants and eateries. I look forward to discovering somewhere new this year.
What is your idea of a perfect Fringe day?
A great breakfast or brunch in Leith, down by the water where it’s quiet. A few hours writing. A Showstopper show. Dinner with the company. And a fantastic late night show somewhere that surprises and inspires me.
Showstopper! The Improvised Musical, 17.20, Pleasance Courtyard
https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/showstopper-the-improvised-musical
Showstopper! The Kids Show, 10,30, Pleasance Courtyard, August 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30
https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/showstopper-the-kids-show
