Russell Hicks: The Fringe Journey
Published: Monday 22nd August 2016
Edinburgh is a microcosm for life. For one month, we are surrounded by arguably the most beautiful scenery in the world, top notch entertainment and expression, as well as a cornucopia of nooks and crannies to get lost in, from rare book stores run by blissfully eccentric gentlemen (Tills Used Books - dig it), to delectable pubs and cafes.
Last night I watched a documentary about a crazed wrestling coach who set up a compound at his mansion for his athletes, where normally financially hindered wrestlers could focus solely on training, for an extended amount of time. Naturally they become incredibly good, won titles, all of that. The Fringe is like that for me. It's Foxcatcher. It's like a rock polisher where you go in like a jagged old stone and come out, well, not necessarily polished, who wants that... but you come out changed. Better, yes...definitely better.
Some people come out dejected. They went in searching for something only to come out empty handed. They actually think they got nothing. I could be casting aspersions, I don't know' I don't even see those people anymore, so I don't complain about them...do they exist? Maybe... All I see are people enjoying, expressing, and yeah, of course making enough money to survive, and past that what else is there?
Every award, every accolade, every achievement can be boiled down, or dialled back to one single truth. A truth that can be achieved sans the award/accolade/other thing I said (never look back kids...). An award brings in a lot of things. First, it brings money. Be smart, gear your focus just a little to the right and you can achieve financial solitude through your medium especially in this country which still favours precise application of trade over superficial appearance of fame.
An award brings... what else? Opportunity? Alright, well, again, see above. Right place, right time, accomplished execution of your craft... keep holding the lightning rod in that storm, how can you not get hit....
Excuse me for the cliche, but it's true that everything people think conventional success will cure, can only be fixed inside oneself, even when you are a gutter dwelling loser. Matter of fact that's the best place to find yourself. I've been happy and penniless, I've been sad cashing cheques... do you guys remember what it was like to work in an office?
It's cliché to even be the guy who says, "I'm doing it for the art maaaaan..." Yes, yes, we know, and the posters are an affront to all that is decent in expression... I don't even think that hard about that anymore...do you?
(That guy from Foxcatcher ended up living in his mansion alone, where he went nuts, by the way.)
'Russell Hicks: Deadliner' is at the Free Sisters at 4:30pm until the 28th August. Listing
Help us publish more great content by becoming a BCG Supporter. You'll be backing our mission to champion, celebrate and promote British comedy in all its forms: past, present and future.
We understand times are tough, but if you believe in the power of laughter we'd be honoured to have you join us. Advertising doesn't cover our costs, so every single donation matters and is put to good use. Thank you.
Love comedy? Find out more