Edinburgh Stars Share Secrets Behind Their Weird Characters 2026

Edinburgh stars are known for their bizarre and unforgettable characters, and Katie Pritchard's Sir Elton Scone is a perfect example. In this exclusive interview, she reveals the creative process behind her weird and wonderful alter ego, offering a glimpse into the world of fringe theatre and character comedy.

The Inspiration Behind Sir Elton Scone

Katie Pritchard, a musician and comedian, first drew Elton John as a scone during the Covid lockdowns. The drawing brought her joy, and she soon turned it into a silly character for her own amusement. It wasn't until a conversation with drag artist Michael Twaits that she decided to develop it further. The character has evolved but remains true to its roots: a baking-themed Elton John, complete with a love for baking and a nonsensical TV gameshow that uses no ovens.

Pritchard explains that the character is a playful take on masculinity, incorporating traits like manspreading and taking up space. She contrasts this with her own backstage behavior, where she constantly tries to stay out of the way. The result is a larger-than-life persona with giant hands, a big chef's hat, and a suit jacket twice the width of her shoulders.

From Drawing to Stage: The Evolution

The journey from a simple drawing to a full-fledged stage performance was not without challenges. Pritchard bought velvet curtains from a charity shop in Wales to make the suit, and she had to preview the show in 30°C heat. Despite the discomfort, the character has become a joyful and freeing experience, unlike her previous hip-hopera character, which she found restrictive.

Comparing Character Creation Approaches

To better understand how Edinburgh stars craft their weird characters, let's compare two of Pritchard's creations:

This table highlights how different inspirations lead to distinct characters, each with its own visual and performance identity.

Key Takeaways for Aspiring Performers

• Start with a simple, joyful idea and let it evolve naturally.
• Collaborate with peers to gain fresh perspectives and encouragement.
• Embrace the physicality of a character—costume and movement are crucial.
• Be prepared for practical challenges like heat and costume discomfort.
• Find freedom in characters that break your own habits and comfort zones.

FAQ

Edinburgh stars like Katie Pritchard demonstrate that the most memorable characters often come from personal joy and a willingness to embrace the absurd. Whether you're a performer or simply a fan of fringe theatre, understanding the creative process behind these weird characters adds a new layer of appreciation.

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