As Brighton Fringe gears up for 2016, Broadway Baby offers a preview of the shows, the people and the world that is Brighton Fringe. We’ve been speaking to participants from around the Fringe and asked them to give us an insight into their shows.
I moved over to London 3 years ago to take a role in the West End production of The Commitments
Name Sharon Sexton
Show Somewhere Under The Rainbow: The Liza Minnelli Story
Tell us a bit about yourself
I'm an Irish performer and moved over to London 3 years ago to take a role in the West End production of The Commitments musical. We have been here ever since and love it. Myself and my husband met in college and run Biscuits for Breakfast Theatre Company where we create and stage our own work. This show was one of our first original pieces of work and so it holds a really special place in our hearts!
Can you tell us a little bit about your show, what can we expect?
I think audiences get more than they bargained for when they come to see this piece, as a lot of people expect a tribute act or full musical cabaret. While it's got elements of both, it also has a very carefully crafted script, which takes the audience on a wonderful journey through Liza's life. It is a magic little show.
Why did you decide to perform your show at the Brighton Fringe?
We've visited Brighton a number of times, because honestly one of the things that we miss most from home is the sea. You take it for granted when you've always had access to it. So when we realised there was a Fringe festival here too, which has such a good reputation, we jumped at the chance to take part in it. It's a brilliant excuse to have a working holiday and spend some time here.
What makes your show different?
It blurs a lot of boundaries in its style and features elements of cabaret, musical theatre, straight theatre, tears, laughter and dancing on a chair! What's not to like!
Who would enjoy seeing your show?
We've had such a diverse range of people enjoy this show. Any Liza and Judy fans will obviously like it because it offers a great insight into their relationship, but also anyone with an interest in the entertainment industry, who wants a glimpse behind the scenes. Liza is one of the last great icons from that old school Hollywood era and has so many amazing stories to tell from that time.
What has been the best advice you have been given?
A lecturer once said to me “Being an actor isn't about the two hours you spend on stage every night, it's about the other 22 hours of the day when you are not on stage and how you use that time to make things happen”. I'd no idea how true that was until I started out in the industry and it’s so true. You have to make your spare time count and make your own work.
What show, apart from yours, would you recommend at the Brighton Fringe and why?
I'm really looking forward to seeing Camille O'Sullivan in the Spiegeltent. She's a sensational cabaret performer and her act never fails to surprise and excite you. Plus she's Irish!
What do you think audiences will enjoy the most about your show?
Well sure if I told you that, it'd ruin the best bit! They'll have to come and see for themselves. I promise they won't be disappointed!
Somewhere Under The Rainbow - The Liza Minnelli Story is appearing at The Gods, 6-13 May 20:00
