Niamh Denyer is an actor, writer, and comedian. She is bringing her debut show ‘Get Blessed!’ to the Fringe in 2023, featuring funeral celebrant Áine Reilly. We spoke to Niamh about ‘putting the fun into funeral’, her creative process, and her expectations for August.
Can you tell us about ‘Get Blessed!’?
‘Get Blessed!’ Is a character comedy solo show. I play funeral celebrant Áine Reilly. She performs all kinds of ceremonies from naming ceremonies to weddings, but she’s at the Fringe to teach you the art of the perfect send off. The audience are her students, as she brings them on an interactive learning journey, with the main focus being how to make lots of money. Her favourite catchphrase is “learn how to turn human ash into cash!”. I’m on at the Coorie, 1pm at Gilded Balloon’s Patter Hoose venue.
Where did the character of Áine Reilly come from?
During the pandemic, I was bored sitting at home. I adopted this alter ego of sorts who I called Áine and uploaded little sketches of her on my Instagram. She’s very opinionated, a bit of a busy body, always up in everyone’s business. She means no harm but could do with a good dose of self awareness…
‘Get Blessed’ examines many different themes. How do you go about writing such a show?
I started with the character and then I thought what setting I could put her in where all her qualities could be displayed to their fullest. Teaching a class works very well for her, as she is somebody who always knows best, with much wisdom to impart. While I am no longer practising, I grew up Catholic so have attended many religious ceremonies throughout my life. I knew there was comedy gold in the idea of teaching somebody how to run an alternative funeral. The Irish are known for delivering a great send off, and Áine’s take is certainly one with a difference. I often read out loud as I write or perform bits to myself as I go. It’s the best way for me to know if it’s flowing and working. When I’m out and about I often write down ideas on the notes app on my phone as they come to me; daily life is full of inspiration.
Is Áine a character that can be brought back for further shows, or are you already thinking ahead to new creations and new topics?
Absolutely! She’s got thousands of courses for the public to attend. There have already been some requests that she does classes on certain topics, but you’ll have to see the show to guess what they are…
This is your debut Fringe show. What are your hopes and expectations for August?
I am really excited to perform every day for a month and to be amongst the crowds of Edinburgh. I hope to be able to perform the show to as many people as I can. Also, lots of flyering!
Beside ‘Get Blessed!’, can we expect to see you performing elsewhere during August?
Not at the moment- my main focus is getting the show in tip top shape. Once I am up and running in Edinburgh, I’d be open to guest spotting, should I have the opportunity. Watch this space.
Apart from your show, what else are you looking forward to (or even perhaps dreading) about the Fringe?
I’ve never been as a performer before and I am a little frightened by how busy and chaotic it will likely be. I think I just need to carve out a little routine for myself and take each day as it comes. Accept the highs and lows.
Are there any other acts at the Fringe that you would recommend audiences see?
Catherine Cohen who’s on at the Pleasance, I saw her show at Hackney Empire and laughed until I cried. I am looking forward to finally seeing Alison Spittle live, an Irish comedy legend!
‘Get Blessed!’ runs from Wed 2 to Sun 27 Aug 2023 (except Mon 14) at Gilded Balloon Patter Hoose – Coorie at 13:00