ED FRINGE 2023 INTERVIEW | Robert McNamara, Report to an Academy

With the Edinburgh Festival Fringe now underway, we’ve caught up with some of the artists and creative teams to chat about their work. Amongst all of the things you can see is Report to an Academy. We spoke with Robert McNamara to find out more..

1. Let's begin by pitching your show at the Ed Fringe, tell us about it?
It's Kafka's "other" masterpiece that is the companion to his better-known story 'The Metamorphosis' which tells of a human being's descent into becoming a cockroach. 'Report to an Academy' takes the opposite course. It deals with an ape, Red Peter, and his voyage into humanity. So-called.

2. Where did you draw your influences from for this piece?
The vaudeville stage, Fellini old broken-down performers and a bit perhaps from 'The Entertainer' with Archie Rice.

3. What are the challenges of bringing a piece to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe?
PR, contacts and getting an audience in who will spread the word. Find the right audience.

4. What can audiences expect from your show?
A harrowing tale that is darkly funny, more in keeping with 'Dr. Strangelove'.

5. What are you most looking forward to during your time in Edinburgh for the festival?
Honing the show down, finding a new and challenging audience and then seeing damn good shows!

6. Where can people come and see 'Report to an Academy'?
ZOO Southside Studios from Aug 4th to Aug 27th. See y'all there!!!