ED FRINGE 2023 INTERVIEW | Vibhinna Ramdev, "Why English?"

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 Why English?. We’re chatting with Vibhinna Ramdev to find out more..

1. Let's begin by pitching your show at the Ed Fringe, tell us about it?

It’s about why I predominantly speak English, despite living in a “so called” non-English speaking country - India. 

2. Where did you draw your influences from for this piece?

It’s a deeply personal story drawing from my own life experiences. Also, from extensive research through interviews of people that I have interacted with from different walks of life!

3. What are the challenges of bringing a piece to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe?

Challenges are many! The biggest of course is the COSTS… and another factor being, 1 pound sterling is a 106 Indian rupees. I am literally spending 10 folds of what even the other European companies are spending. 

My major cost is the venue minimum guarantee, only because I have a close friend who lives in Edinburgh, and I have been able to get highly subsidised accommodation. It’s actually the only reason I even thought I could do the Fringe to begin with. 

Of course, another big one for me is the weather, it’s too cold for my tropical body, trying to steer clear of injuries. 

4. What can audiences expect from your show?

Literally a glimpse of my life!  And I know everything would like to think they’re very interesting. But, I really am! Lol! Jokes aside, It is original, fresh and completely relatable in any part of the world!

5. What are you most looking forward to during your time in Edinburgh for the festival?

Of course, the adrenaline rush of the festival. Being able to do shows back to back. And watching world class performances. 

6. What are the main things within your piece?

It is a solo, but I have really interesting scenography which adds a nice texture to the show. A unique physical language showing my personality through and through.

7. Where can people come and see 'Why English?’
Why English? ZOO Southside Studio Aug 4th - 19th (not 14th) at 5:40 pm