The Groggy Squirrel

Alison Bice is making her first trip to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival this year. As part of the Free Fringe program, she will be revisting her Moosehead assisted MICF Show of 2007, “The Wizard of Bice”. In the midst of frantic preparations, Alison was able to spare a few moments to answer some questions.

How did the idea for a double header show with Geraldine Hickey come about?

Basically, Geraldine Hickey just really wanted an excuse to share a bed with me for 4 weeks. She’ll tell you otherwise but that’s just her insecurities talking.

Truthfully: Louise Sanz produced both our shows for Melbourne Comedy Festival this year. Geraldine was going over to Edinburgh to take ‘One Week In Paradise’ to the free fringe, and then Lou suggested I take a show over as well as there were still spots available.

But I still remain adamant Geraldine was in Lou’s ear about the sleeping arrangements.

Did the show require many changes to adapt it for a foreign audience?

I have actually re-written the entire show so whilst it is the same title – it is a completely new act, and yes it has been specifically “designed” for Edinburgh.

In what way is “The Wizard of Bice” a better introduction to you as opposed to your stand up set?

I have incorporated a lot more of “me” in to the show. So there are still aspects of my stand-up thrown in there. I also want the chance to experiment a bit more with the “quirky” side of my humour. The structure and premise of this show allows me to do this more than a straight stand up show.

Do you have an overall goal for your first Edinburgh trip?

Yes. I am trying to find a UK husband so I can get access to a British Passport.

Oh, you mean about the show and career opportunities? I was thinking the other day my ideal review would read. “This show is ridiculous. I hated it. 5 stars”

Has someone who has made the trip before offered you advice? Are you likely to take it?

I have had numerous comics warn me about the food in Edinburgh. I’m pretty certain after a month of Deep Fried Pizzas and Mars Bars my fear of developing Type 2 Diabetes will become a reality.

Alison is performing “The Wizard of Bice” at Voodoo Bar (34 Cockburn St, Edinburgh) during Fringe. See the Free Fringe Website for details.