Australian comedian gives us a status report on his first Fringe

We asked some Edinburgh Fringe debutants about their expectations of the festival before it kicked off. Now we’re more than halfway through, we wondered how reality had matched up. Here are both sets of answers from visiting Australian comedian Matt Harvey:

What do you hope to get out of the Fringe?

How it started: Ideally a few positive reviews and to not have to cancel any of the run. If I can swing doing no fewer than double digits butts in seats that'd be a real bonus.

How it’s going:   While getting reviewers over the threshold has been hard. The rest I am delighted to report is landing quite well. So far not only not a cancelled show but numbers have been fantastic. I think I have averaged 15 to 20 which for someone from Australia who is here without PR, I am very happy.

What's your biggest fear going into the festival?

How it started:  That some of the local stuff –  such as talking Robodebt which is huge here in Australia –  will be lost on local audiences. I have built an explainer in, with jokes! And it worked in New Zealand but we are similar countries in our humour.

How it’s going:   I was genuinely worried people might not be interested in Robodebt - you guys have your own government with its own issues. But this Robodebt stuff has proven to be the most popular part of the show. People have been kind enough to trade stories with me of local issues like the Post Office scandal. It's like an atrocity cultural exchange.

How are you feeling about the state of your show?

How it started:  It has done a few festivals and it feels good. But with every festival I am always worried it won't land regardless. I don't think that ever goes away.

How it’s going:   I was right to be cautiously optimistic. While the show is being received very well by audiences it’s not everyone's thing. It is interesting seeing the slight differences in responses here when compared to back home but I have made the appropriate adjustments.

What do you hope the reviewers say?

How it started:  Something positive. Obviously I have my ultimate compliments in mind but I'd never be foolish enough to let those go out into the world. If they say something that convinces someone else to take a chance on me I'd be really appreciative.

How it’s going:   Well, the one that has come did not. But the audience response has been so positive its a real Rotten Tomatoes audience vs critics moment for me. I wish a few of them would from me an EdFringe review but the kind words, positive feedback, laughs, and desire to swap stories is a real treat.

What do you think your average audience will be?

How it started:   Probably 4

How it’s going:  I am pleased to say no fewer than eight have come. With recent shows nearly selling out. But I still got some room so do take a chance on the show.

What steps do you aim to take to look after your mental and physical health?

How it started:  I want to eat better this year. Too many deep fried meals last year, it was a learning curve - a delicious learning curve. Mental health... who could plan for such a thing? I don't even think it's possible during the weeks of the festival. But I have a week off afterwards to decompress fully so that's a plus.

How it’s going:   I have been much better to myself. Eaten better, avowed space for me, and to check in back home. Spent time with friends and these have helped a lot with staying grounded and reminding myself that we are all going through it this festival.

Wage Against The Machine is on at PBH Free Fringe @ Canons' Gait at 8:15pm

Published: 20 Aug 2023