Richard is back on the trail seeking out the Barstar Of The Day; our tribute to the unsung heroes who keep us refreshed during the Festival Fringe. Each venue is recommended by one of the previous Barstars. As this is the first of the 2019 season we thought we’d make a slight departure from that rule and introduce the new Gilded Balloon in Chamber’s St. (Venue 24), formerly C main. The vast bar has been completely redesigned and is now a sparklingly spacious pink and white affair with table and chairs in the main body and padded wall seating around the corners.
The first year he describes as ‘a barrel of uncontrollable fun’
It’s worth taking a look at any time but especially before and after a show.
Name: Matt Parker
Age: 23
Bar: The Johnnie Walker Lounge at Gilded Balloon, Patter Hoose
Background: Born and went to school in Edinburgh before reading psychology at the University of Glasgow. That lasted five years. The first year he describes as ‘a barrel of uncontrollable fun’ which ultimately lengthened the time he took to graduate, after which he did the West Highland Way from Glasgow to Fort William, collecting blisters, bug bites and beautiful memories. He’s now dropped into ‘the abyss of life’ doing bar work and volunteering for the Samaritans and also Open Door as a dementia health carer.
Ambition: To become a clinical psychologist (matter how long it takes!).
Favourite Drink: White Russian (the more extravagant and sickeningly sweet the better - think Nutella or mint chocolate chip). If you’re also a fan go to Lebowskis it’s pretty much all, so he says.
