EDINBURGH 2017: BWW Q&A- Christel Bartelse

Tell us a bit about All KIDding aside.

All KIDding Aside is a comically honest exploration of my fears and hesitations around being a 30-something year-old woman wanting to hit the snooze button on my biological clock as it starts to tick...... It's now decision time. This quintessential double bind faced by womankind sets the stage for an epic, hilarious "what if" battle of Parenthood v Career. My show takes place in a doctor's office as I await my test results. My period is late. Am I pregnant? Or not pregnant? Riddled with indecision and anxiety, my show explores the pros and cons of having a baby and all of my fears surrounding it.

Why do you feel it is so relevant just now?

I feel this show is relevant because so many people I know, especially performers are truly on the fence about whether to have kids or not. This is a 21st century conundrum for many; fearing what having children would mean to their career and their freedom. We are of a different generation now and so many women are waiting to have kids later in life, when it can sometimes be too late.

For a lot of our parents, it wasn't really a choice, people just had kids, no question but we now have so many choices, pressure and it's truly the biggest decision of your life. Women have more rights and opportunities now and many women feel the need to pursue other non-kid accomplishments. At the same time, we shouldn't judge women for their decisions, choices, it's no one else's business.

I just created a podcast based on this issue, and my show, because so many women wanted to come forward and express their own feelings, struggles, concerns they were feeling on either being a mom, or a non mom.

Why bring it to Edinburgh?

I came to Edinburgh for my first time in 2015 with my show ONEymoon and I did the PBH free fringe. I learnt so much from my first time being here, that I felt the need to come back and apply what I learnt. This year felt right. I feel better prepared. But also Edinburgh- c'mon, it's just such a magical place and truly an incredible place to develop yourself as an artist. I think this place is filled with opportunity and I love being so inspired by all that is going on. It's the place to see so many shows and learn from other performers. It's hard work but there is nowhere else like it and it is a lot of fun. After doing the Canadian Fringe circuit for many years the next big step is this festival.

And my in-laws live in Wales, so they're coming over and they get to see me perform, which only happens every few years. I enjoy the pints they buy me afterward.

What sets it apart from other shows at the Fringe?

I have a wonderful Canadian accent that's fun to listen to for 50 minutes. Having said that there are parts where I don't speak at all and just wear a giant baby head mask on my head.

And I do a physical piece in which you'll never look at your gynecologist in the same way.

Who would you recommend comes to see you?

I'm hoping people come to see me not only for my show, but also for my performance. I like to think I'm highly engaging and charming and tell a good story. In 2015 I brought my show ONEymoon, if you enjoyed that, I think you'll enjoy this.

All KIDding Aside is a show really speaks to all women, but ultimately it's for anyone who wants to laugh, which we all know lowers blood pressure, improves circulation, and strengthens the immune system. Three things you need when you're at the Fringe.

The show is really for anyone struggling to major decision (let's face it, we all have to make these) and ultimately it is a show about fear.

Timings and ticket information for All KIDding Aside are available on the edfringe website.

To post a comment, you must register and login.