American clown and comedian Liz Coin brings her show Lizzy Sunshine to Edinburgh Fringe following acclaim at Soho Playhouse and beyond.
“When her partner doesn’t show, Lizzy Sunshine makes the audience her co-star. She promised a two-person show. She got… you. Following sold-out runs at Soho Playhouse and beyond, Liz Coin is BACK with this chaotic, feel-good spectacle! Expect a fast-paced hour packed with gags gone wrong, big characters and something real just beneath the surface. ‘A smart piece of theater masquerading as a clown show’ ***** (TheatreVillage.co.uk).”
Where: Coorie at Gilded Balloon Patter House
When: 5-31 Aug
Ticket link: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/lizzy-sunshine
What can you tell us about your show?
Lizzy Sunshine is a show about positivity presented by two siblings. Her brother, Jamie Storm, is mysteriously running late to the theater so Lizzy turns to the audience to help her carry the show alone. It’s 90% comedy, and when the 10% real hits, it’s surprising.
What is it about and where did the idea come from?
This farcical piece has a surprise metaphor – this is what it feels like to love someone with addiction. Endless cheerleading, ups and downs, a ton of waiting, blaming yourself, releasing control, and ultimately accepting what you can’t change.
How would you sell it to audiences in one paragraph?
If you want to feel every spectrum of emotion, laugh in a way that surprises you, feel very safe and encouraged, and have your eyes opened to an experience you haven’t thought about a lot, come see the show.
Do you enjoy participating in the Fringe?
Last year was my first year at the Fringe, and I had the time of my LIIIIFE. I only went for a little under two weeks, but I left so inspired and my skills a lot sharper, so I’m thrilled to be back this year for the full month with my full show, full heart (can’t lose).
And do you have any moments you particularly remember?
A 12-year-old girl liked my flyering outfit (a giant inflatable whoopee cushion dress) on the street, so her mom brought her to my show. She was my audience participant, and when the show started unraveling, she shouted from her seat, “It’s okay Lizzy!” And it was awesome.
At the end of the show, her mother came up to me and said: “My daughter loved it, and I really appreciated the message because that’s my experience too.” I also had a group of Scottish mothers impacted by addiction come as an outing, and their response was really special. The show resonates with people in an approachable, encouraging way.
What’s next for the show?
I am looking for a production company to help produce this as a special; my dream would be Dropout. I’m also developing the concept (not the exact plot) into a pilot and hope to continue performing the show. Lizzy Sunshine was always my “jumping off” point, and I’m so proud of how far it has come.