Jessie Nixon brings her first solo show to the Edinburgh Fringe this year although it’s not her first performance there. Here’s what Jessie told me about her plans this year.
Is this your first time at the Edinburgh Fringe?
No, it’s not technically, but it is my first proper solo show with all the bells and whistles.
How long have you been preparing your show for Edinburgh?
It feels like I’ve been preparing simultaneously for the entire time I’ve been doing comedy, and also like I’ve barely started prepping at all. I fear it’s one of those ‘never feels done’ types of things.
What is your motivation to perform there?
Spite! Even though I adore the festival, it breeds elitism and wealth privilege. I’ve been saving for years and even now only have enough to join the party for this one time. I want to make it count and take my shot like the rich kids do.
What have you done to prepare for the Edinburgh Fringe, emotionally and physically?
Emotionally, genuinely I have started therapy. Not kidding. I think it’s an extremely intense month and will be a maelstrom of highs and lows. Physically, I have lost 20kg! I think the industry is probably kinder to smaller women. Most industries are.
Have you had any advice from others who have performed at the Fringe?
The main ones are to not read reviews, stay off social media and make sure you eat your veg. I agree wholeheartedly with all of them!
Have you visited Scotland or Edinburgh before?
Yes! I have some amazing family members who live in Aberdeen, they come and visit whenever I do the fringe and it’s always a massive uplift!
How have you found booking accommodation?
You know what, it’s a nightmare but that’s hardly a hot take. But I have accidentally fallen into possibly the coolest house share with comedians Josh Glanc and Rajiv Karia – both phenomenal comics who you can also see at the fringe.
What plans do you have for your show after the Edinburgh Fringe is over?
I’d like to think about touring! I’d like to film it, and I would most importantly like to look back on it with immense pride! I guess it’ll also be time to start writing the next one which fills me with both fear and excitement at the same time. No rest for the wicked, I guess.
Jessie Nixon’s debut comedy hour ‘Don’t Make Me Regret This’ will be at the Assembly George Square Gardens Crate at 7.20 pm for the entire fringe for tickets go to
Photo credit-Rebecca Need-Menear
Theatre, Art and Film Reviews 
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