Fringe performer Sarah Laing is making sure that the world’s biggest arts festival doesn’t forget those in the city who maybe can’t join in with the hustle and bustle of busy venues as they might like.
Alongside her Three Sisters show, Sarah Laing Sings the Music of Doris Day, Laing will be visiting care homes around the city, including Thorburn Manor and Cairdean House, where she will entertain residents with songs that bring back the memories, like The Deadwood Stage and Whatever Will Be, Will Be (Que Sera Sera).
“Music is there to be enjoyed be everyone,” said the former Boroughmuir High School pupil. “I feel so honoured to be able to bring a bit of the Edinburgh Fringe to the residents. Many of them would otherwise be unable to attend the Fringe so I’m really pleased to be able to share the experience.”
The singer’s fascination with Doris Day began when she saw Calamity Jane, aged only nine. Eighteen years later and the interest hasn’t abated. “People often ask me why I decided to base my show on Doris Day. My fascination with Doris started when I was really young and she has been my favourite singer and actress ever since. It’s been lovely to see so many people enjoying the show.”
She debuted at last year’s Fringe with one-woman show, The Music of Doris Day, and has since performed a successful run at the Big Burns Supper Festival in Dumfries and Penge Festival in London.
Looking back on last year, Laing said “It meant so much to have people coming up to me after every show to tell me how much they enjoyed it. One lady said that the show was like a trip down memory lane whilst another said it was a nice, gentle way for him to start his day at the Fringe.”
With her guest appearances at care homes, it won’t be just Fringe-goers who’ll be enjoying the thrill of musical nostalgia.