Ellie MacPherson made her Edinburgh Fringe debut in 2022, racking up a plethora of 4 and 5 star reviews, earning a spot amongst the best reviewed comedy shows list compiled by British Comedy Guide.
Ellie has previously performed in Mischief Theatre’s international smash hit The Play That Goes Wrong in New York and has headlined New York City’s top cabaret venues including Feinstein’s / 54 Below and The Green Room 42. She is also a professional voiceover artist and a Fellow of the Witness Institute, a prestigious program for emerging leaders to continue the legacy of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Elie Wiesel.
Tell us about your show?
My show is the never performed cabaret written by 16th American President Abraham Lincoln. Most people think of Abe stuck in stone at the Lincoln Memorial, or stamped on a penny. But, did you know all he ever wanted to be was an alternative musical comedian?! I felt it was my duty as an American to bring Lincoln’s greatest piece of writing (suck it Gettysburg Address) to life on stage.
Is that true?
I mean, no, but kind of. Lincoln was known for his sense of humour, but many of his jokes were so dirty that they couldn’t be written down for fear that they would embarrass the US government. Can you imagine, embarrassing the US government with your jokes?!
How does it feel to be performing at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival?
Performing at the Fringe is kind of like giving birth. You remember the amazing parts and somehow forget the painful and anxiety-inducing bits. As someone that has done both, I can say that childbirth is easier, and less expensive.
Have you got any tips for comedians going up to the festival for the first time?
Be kind to yourself and stop counting other people’s stars, and once in a while give your voice a break. I recommend a personal voice steamer but you can just stand in a hot shower and cry there if you want. Crying is great! I like to cry standing in the middle of The Meadows. Preferably while a circus show is letting out. Crying next to a clown is a good reminder that it’s all a joke and not that big a deal.
Who are the funny women you would recommend seeing in Edinburgh this year?
The Women of Stamptown! Riki Lindhome, Erin Farrington, Caitlin Cook, Michelle Braiser. I truly can’t wait!
Ellie MacPherson: Babe Lincoln, 31 July – 25 August at 4.35pm, at The Pleasance Courtyard (Attic). Book tickets here.
