For comedians, deciding between going on tour or performing at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival is a big deal. Each option comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. In this post, we'll explore what makes touring shows different from Edinburgh shows, using insights from comedians who have experienced both.
The Financial Gamble
Touring shows and Edinburgh shows both require a financial leap of faith, but the stakes and structures differ. Touring involves selling tickets under your own name, akin to the Edinburgh experience where artists perform solo shows. However, touring extends this model across various locations, demanding strategic planning to manage costs like venue rentals, PR, and travel. Edinburgh, on the other hand, compresses these challenges into a single, intense festival period, with expenses like brochure listings and accommodation adding up quickly.
Artistic Differences
The artistic demands of touring and Edinburgh shows also diverge. Edinburgh shows are typically 55-60 minutes long, often featuring a thematic arc or a poignant moment to captivate audiences who might be on their fourth show of the day. "I saw Ed Byrne last night," Lina reveals. "He did a show in Edinburgh and then he took it on tour, but he very much had a message and a theme that he was sticking to - but it was a tour show." Touring shows can afford to be longer and may not require the same thematic depth, focusing instead on delivering consistent laughs. This distinction allows comedians to tailor their performances to the expectations of each audience.
Logistical Challenges
Logistics play a crucial role in both touring and Edinburgh shows. Touring requires meticulous planning to minimise travel costs and maximise audience reach. Comedians often face the challenge of zig-zagging across the country, balancing the need for exposure with the practicalities of travel. Edinburgh, while centralised, presents its own logistical hurdles, from securing accommodation to managing the intense schedule of performances and promotional activities.
The Role of Social Media
In today's digital age, social media is an indispensable tool for promoting both touring and Edinburgh shows. Comedians must navigate the delicate balance of engaging with their audience online while maintaining their mental health. The pressure to constantly produce content can be overwhelming, yet it's essential for building a following and ensuring ticket sales. This dynamic is particularly pronounced in touring, where social media can help fill seats in diverse locations.
Ria Lina explains "Social media is a necessary evil of what we're doing now. It forces comedians to learn skills that none of us want to learn. We never want to learn how to edit or what we're doing now. We're recording a podcast and Paul's going to go away and successfully audio edit, which is again, nothing that we used to, it was never a string to our bows. In the old days we used to use to be a little bit more of a meritocracy before television and before the internet where you just had to get on stage and be funny."
Audience Engagement
Engaging with audiences differs between touring and Edinburgh shows. Touring allows comedians to connect with fans across various regions, building a loyal following over time. Edinburgh, with its concentrated audience, offers a unique opportunity to reach a diverse and international crowd, often leading to critical acclaim and industry recognition. Both experiences require comedians to adapt their performances to the expectations and cultural nuances of their audiences.
Conclusion
Choosing between touring shows and Edinburgh shows is a pivotal decision for comedians, each offering distinct pathways to success. While touring demands strategic planning and financial risk, it provides the opportunity to build a dedicated fan base. Edinburgh, with its intense festival atmosphere, offers a platform for artistic expression and industry exposure. Ultimately, the choice depends on a comedian's goals, resources, and personal preferences, shaping their journey in the ever-evolving world of comedy.
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