John Callaghan’s Cabaret Electro opens Sunday 16th August at Aces and Eights, being a quirky cabaret with electronic music. Learn more about what you can expect:
1: What inspired you to create the show?
Being on stage is often where I feel most like myself. The rest of the time, I’m performing.
Creating songs is how I sum up my thoughts. If I ever felt misunderstood, or that I couldn’t express myself properly, or there was something about myself I didn’t understand… I could crystallise those thought processes (the lyrics) and my subconscious (the music) and express them.
The costumes originally began because my music had always been described as weird, so I was acting the clown to encourage the audience to indulge me while I sang my little heart out. Over the years I’ve kept the sense of fun, but now it’s a more sincere expression rather than an apology. After all, we are all things: sad, joyous, wistful and funny. A music show needn’t be frowningly earnest.
2: You mention that each song is illustrated theatrically with different costumes. How do you keep track of all of everything you need?
Lots of lists… which I then often ignore anyway! It can sometimes feel like I’m just bringing everything in my house to be on the safe side.
3: A review mentions it is out of their comfort zone. What can audiences expect?
I assume that reviewer meant the show doesn’t fit into a easily-defined category, so attending might a shot in the dark – embrace the spirit of the Fringe! I’m not trying to make anyone uncomfortable, and it would be presumptuous of me to deliberately try and confront or challenge the audience.
What can audiences expect? It’s an electronic music gig, given a whimsical and often comedic presentation. Over the years I’ve incorporated more chat, which not only contextualises the songs but also engenders a sense of sharing with friends. Plus, this time, some jokes about rodents and which ADHD medication they need.
4: What is your favourite moment in the production?
One of my songs has a note that’s sung for as long as my lungs hold out, and I often manage 29 seconds. I’m a little conflicted about it. I don’t want to show off – after all, I’m trying to express myself through the song, not do the vocal equivalent of juggling! It’s great fun to sing, though, so I usually can’t resist going for it.
5: Where would you like the show to go?
The audience expectation with the Fringe is that anything can happen, and so Fringe cabaret is already the right platform for the show. I just wish I was better at promoting myself!
Having said that, I’d love to get onto Would I Lie To You? one day. After all, I can tear an apple in half.
6: What has been the most enjoyable part about creating John Callaghan’s Cabaret Electro?
It’s gratifying when the show connects with people and we’ve genuinely shared something. For a moment, the world has become a little more John Callaghan.
John Callaghan’s Cabaret Electro opens Sunday 16th August at Aces and Eights. Many thanks to John Callaghan for answering our questions. Book your tickets here!
Max
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