Steven Cragg discusses sword dancing and Edinburgh Castle...
Tell us about your Fringe show
I perform a one-man show where I dress up as Mark Twain and talk about driving cross country to have sex with an ex-girlfriend. Ironically, there’s almost nothing about Mark Twain in it. I just love talking in a Southern accent.
How does it feel to be playing the Fringe for the first time?
Excited. I’ve never performed in another country. I’m worried that some of my references might not translate, but I have Scottish blood in me so I should be fine. My father’s name is Graham! We have a coat of arms! In your face Ireland!
Best live act seen at Fringe?
Wouldn’t know, never been.
Best thing about the Fringe?
Wouldn’t know, never been. So I guess it would have to be the name.
Worst thing about the Fringe?
Wouldn’t know, haven’t been. But I have been to Edinburgh and it was delightful. This was in the nineties and I bumped into a British businessman who had one of the first cell phones and we just sat there and made calls to obscure parts of the world.
If you were not a performer what would you be doing?
I’d be a visionary or a shepherd.
What do your family think of your show?
I think they’re embarrassed. I would be.
How do you combat pre-show nerves?
I think, “Aw, who really gives a sh** about any of this.”
Worst on stage experience?
My moustache kept peeling off. I actually had to excuse myself and go apply some more adhesive. The audience sat there for ten minutes. I might end up being the worst thing anyone’s ever seen at the Fringe.
What do you love about Scotland?
The beautiful magical land, the rough passionate history and, of course, the plague.
What do you like about Edinburgh?
It’s the castle, stupid.
What’s the most Scottish thing you’ve done?
I sword danced once in the basement of a building on the Princeton University campus and got pretty hurt. Not from the swords, but from tripping and hitting my head on the corner of a desk. Twelve stitches. Extremely embarrassing.
Who’s your favourite Scottish performer?
Merida from “Brave.” I’m embarrassed to say that’s the only one I know. And she’s not really a performer. Also, she’s animated. But hey, at least I didn’t say Braveheart.
See Steven Cragg in I Am Not Mark Twain from August 19th – 31st. For tickets visit www.edfringe.com
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