Nick Cassenbaum is a writer and performer. Cutting his teeth as a street performer across the UK he came inside in 2016 with Bubble Schmeisis. Bubble has toured across the UK and internationally. Nick has also made work with the Battersea Arts Centre, Soho Theatre and the Royal Court.
My Kind of Michael is coming to Summerhall what can you tell us about it?
The show is a love letter to Michael Barrymore that explores his rise and fall. My love of him and the influence he has had on me and the relationship between performer and audience. It is full of audience interaction, stories and gags borrowed from the man himself!
What’s the one thing about My Kind of Michael that makes it different from all the rest?
This is the only show about Barrymore on the fringe this year!
Why did you want to write about Michael Barrymore?
Michael Barrymore has always been my hero. I believe he really is one of the best entertainers this country has had and has been treated very badly by the press. I think he is the perfect example of someone who loved their audience and was disposed of wrongfully. I can also see parallels in his life and mine and I wanted to explore that. But basically…I want people to love him again!
What’s the best and worst thing about performing at Edinburgh Fringe?
The best thing is the chance to hone the show over such a long period of time. For this scale of show you don’t often get a chance to perform for such a long run. So Edinburgh is a bit of a treat!
Worst thing is performing to people who are on their 6th show of the day…they can sometimes be a little dead behind the eyes.
What would you say to people thinking of coming to see My Kind of Michael?
Come ready to have fun with an open mind. You will be involved but don’t be intimidated! Just like Michael I make everyone I use feel like a star and that everything they do is fantastic. When I am with you everything you do is perfect!
My Kind of Michael is at Summerhall 1st – 26th August (not 2nd, 13th and 20th)
