Edinburgh Fringe preview: Reuben Kaye on Hard to Swallow

Australian comic and cabaret legend Reuben Kaye returns to Edinburgh Fringe with Hard to Swallow – he is also hosting late-nights at The Kaye Hole.

“Reuben Kaye is back. Sharper, sexier, and more political than ever. Expect glitter, guts, and the kind of biting comedy only Kaye can deliver. ” [Hard to Swallow].

“Late-night done right, hosted by the unforgettable Reuben Kaye, backed by a live band. Queer, messy and f*cking hilarious. The hottest late-night ticket in town is back.” [The Kaye Hole].

Where: Palais du Variété at Assembly George Square Gardens [Hard to Swallow]; McEwan Hall at Underbelly, Bristo Square [The Kaye Hole]

When: 6-29 Aug (not Sun/Mon); 21-22 & 28-29 Aug

Ticket link: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/reuben-kaye-hard-to-swallow & https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/the-kaye-hole-hosted-by-reuben-kaye

What can you tell us about your show? What is it about and where did the idea come from? 

I’m only ever interested in the hardest truths in society and how I can tell them in the funniest way I can. The world is scary, but I honestly believe at its core, despite the polarisation, we’re all actually angry and scared about the same things. So Hard To Swallow is there to let us all laugh at the worst, scariest things in society and take that power back. Relieve that pressure valve. 

How would you sell it to audiences in one paragraph? 

You want to laugh at things you’re not allowed to? Do it. I dare you.

Do you enjoy participating in the Fringe? And do you have any moments you particularly remember? 

I don’t participate in the Fringe. I surrender to it. I let it swallow me up in all its filth, chip grease, and joy. My favourite memory is sitting on Carlton Hill, the last night of the Fringe with my friend and storyteller, James Rowland (who may be the kindest man in existence) after abusing our livers and nostrils, holding each other and groggily watching the sun rise on the last day. Just joyful.  

What are you looking forward to the most in Edinburgh? 

Catching an STI from a clown. Or maybe finally being picked up for a TV show. Either way I’m gonna get screwed.

What’s next for the show?

Didn’t you hear? It’s gonna become a TV show… if I’m gonna be part of something, let it be the problem.