Ania Magliano Q&A: Contraceptive coils, celebrity breakups and teeth
Published: Wednesday 8th January 2025
After performing Forgive Me, Father at the 2024 Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Ania Magliano is bringing the show on tour across the UK and Ireland. Recently, British Comedy Guide had the chance to speak with her about the tour, including the inspiration for its content, what her creative process is like and more.
How did you first get started in the world of comedy?
I worked at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe as a reception intern and fell in love with stand-up. Further back than that, I made YouTube videos online trying to be funny. Further back than that, my parents got divorced.
Can you tell us a bit about your show, Forgive Me, Father?
It's an autobiographical hour of stand-up that tells the story of moving in with a romantic partner for the first time in my life with many subplots - losing my contraceptive coil, my love of celebrity breakups, my opinions on teeth (too many; teeth and opinions).
What inspired you to create Forgive Me, Father? Can you tell us about your creative process for the show?
I wanted to make a show about how hard I found living with my partner initially (through it bringing up all my fears of commitment, abandonment, etc) because I hadn't seen anyone talk about it in detail, but it also seems pretty common. I basically thought, "What is the show I would like to have seen a year ago when I was going through this that would make me feel like it was all going to be ok?" So the process was basically making that funny, which I think comes from being as truthful as possible.
What has it been like touring Forgive Me, Father?
So far I've only done Soho Theatre and it was a glorious two weeks - I had a fantastic time. I listened to the Brat remix album on the way to every show and I truly think it unlocked a new part of my soul.
What is it like to write for your own shows versus for others, like Chicken Shop Date and New World Order?
I love the sweet relief of not being burdened with my own personality when writing for others.
What advice do you have for those looking to get into comedy?
Focus on cultivating your own voice! Which, in practical terms, I guess means removing any internetisms/other peopleisms as soon as you can. They can be helpful stabilisers initially whilst you're working up confidence onstage, but often, there's a more interesting, unique way of saying something.
What do you hope audiences take away from Forgive Me, Father?
I want them to feel like they have laughed A LOT, so potentially a broken rib or two. And I guess a sense of hope if you've struggled with commitment - that it's not all impossible.
How would you describe Forgive Me, Father in one word?
Printer (you have to see the show to find out).
Ania Magliano is touring across the UK and Ireland with her brand new show Forgive Me, Father until 6th March - tickets available from www.aniamagliano.com
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