ED2019 Dance & Physical Theatre ED2019 Interviews ED2019 TW:DIY

Eight Steps Q&A: Natano Fa’anana

By ThreeWeeks Editorial | Published on Wednesday 7 August 2019

Natano Fa’anana – co-founder of Casus Circus and director of their show ‘DNA’ – offers some tips on how to get the most from the Edinburgh Festival, in eight steps…

1: Beyond posters and reviews, how do you suggest people pick shows to see at this year’s Fringe?
Ask someone working at one of the cafe stalls or bars or food outlets near the venues. They usually hear what audiences have to say about the shows. Or just take a punt. There are literally thousands of shows to choose from and there’s a real chance you might stumble across a diamond in the rough.

2. What tips have you got for people trying to see as many shows as possible in one day – how can you power through?
Go hard I reckon! I mean, if you have only one day at the Festival, then go hard. Though, maybe if you are doing three days in a row, have half time oranges. Then get back on that horse and go hard again.

3. When people are reaching peak Fringe, what tips do you have for chilling out during the Festival?
Sit outside any of the venues and soak up the atmosphere with no obligation of seeing a show. Chill with a coffee or wine and then – when it feels right – then get up and see a show.

4. What things do you think should be on every Fringe-goers Edinburgh Festival bucket list?
Climb Arthurs Seat at sunrise. There are also cafes and hairdressers and schools that have been converted into performance spaces for the Festival. So check out a show in one of those and get a bit of variety. Have a real Haggis meal with the locals and, of course, watch a Casus show!

5: Beyond the flyer, what tips have you got for performers trying to get people into their shows?
Bounce off your friends. Give shout outs to your colleagues and they’ll do the same for you. Flyer for one another. Support one another.

6: The Fringe can be great for finding a new audience. What tips would you have for staying connected with that new audience beyond Edinburgh?
Definitely find ways to stay in touch. Whether it be via social media or by sending a couple of key people in each specific community a message or email. Simply to say hello and thank you for supporting your art.

7: Performing at the Fringe is partly about building a network. What tips have you got for people looking to make connections in the industry?
At Casus we have a “no wanker policy”. That’s a good mantra! Every person that crosses your path might play a role in connecting you with the industry. Respect that relationship and don’t be a wanker.

8: How would you recommend performers stay healthy during all the Fringe madness?
Eat the greens, man. But also know, it’s the Edinburgh Fringe. So roll with the fun and elation and know that, at least twice you’ll wake up on Arthurs Seat at sunrise!

Natano Fa’anana directed ‘DNA’ at Assembly George Square Gardens at Edinburgh Festival 2019.