EDINBURGH 2016: BWW Q&A - Two Kittens and a Kid

BWW speaks to Christopher Wilson about his 2016 Edinburgh Fringe show Two Kittens and a Kid (A Gay Man Raising His Inner Diva).

Is this your first visit to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe?

Yes, this is my first visit to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, though not my first visit to Edinburgh or my first time performing in the beauitful city. 20 years ago, I was an international opera student from Toronto, Canada, studying at the (former) Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama in Glasgow, pursuing my Masters in Opera. At the time, I had the opportunity to perform with the opera school in Edinburgh. It has since been a dream to perform in the international Fringe Festival - and I'm delighted to make that a reality this August 2016.

Do you think you know what to expect from the festival?

To answer most authentically - hell, no! I have been a professional performer for 25 years and have participated in many performances internationally; but none comparable to the scope, intensity and magnitude of the Edinburgh Fringe. I am both "excited and scared" (to quote Stephen Sondheim), though more exhillarated by the opportunity to explore and birth this new work that I am creating - and experience the energy and artistry of the Festival.

Tell us a bit about Two Kittens and a Kid.

Two Kittens & A Kid (A Gay Man Raising His Inner Diva) is a deeply personal and autobiographical story of being a gay, white dad to an adolescent, black girl - an experience of sitcom proportions, in and of itself. My parenting journey with my foster daughter was full of nuance, rich in anecdotes, and fierce in emotional challenge and intensity. This piece gives voice to parenting joys and struggles, substance-abuse, mental health, addiction, and ultimately love and acceptance - all expressed compassionately through spoken work and sung music.

What kind of audience would you recommend your show to?

I am hoping to appeal to an audience willing to engage with vulnerability - and share in some intimate levity. My ultimate goal is to create a strong emotional bond with the audience - one firmly rooted in honesty. And connect with an audience who enjoys cabaret, musicals, and authentic story-telling.

Are there any other shows you're hoping to catch in Edinburgh?

I am sincerely hoping to find the time and energy to partake of the amazing offerings this August... so many! My tastes are diverse so some shows that caught my eye in the programme: Craig Hill: Up and Coming!; Teatro Delusio (Familie Flöz); Deal With The Dragon; F*cking Men; Immortal; Labels; and some good Scottish fare - Trainspotting, just to get me started!

Timings and ticket information for Two Kittens and a Kid (A Gay Man Raising His Inner Diva) are available on the edfringe website.

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