Q & A - Project Adorno

As a student in the early 70s I was exposed to 'difficult' European philosophers and social commentators. For that reason Theodore Adorno seems like an old friend. Equally I have always been pleased to see Project Adorno on the Fringe bill - people tell me that they (PA) are a bit strange, but I take that to be a good thing. We need quirky. Anyway Project Adorno are in town for just two shows this year -11th and 12th at the Old Clubhouse. They are joined by Steve Lake - this puzzled me at first because I couldn't imagine the old jazz journalist and record producer with PA. I assume this is a different Steve Lake. We'll try and fix up an interview and let you know more. In the meantime this may whet your appetite.

You have played at the Buxton Fringe before why are you coming back?

Pleasant atmosphere – more laid-back than Edinburgh. Nice town. Good shops and restaurants. Perfect place to preview Edinburgh shows.

Amongst Buxton’s famous sons and (adopted daughter) are Tim Brooke-Taylor, Dave Lee Travis and Vera Brittain. How do you feel about following in the footsteps of such giants?

Honoured to follow the first and the last, but have no such feelings for the Hairy Cornflake. He would never have played us in a million years.

What reaction do you expect from your audiences?

Mild bemusement. One or two CD sales. Wild enthusiasm on the part of Nigel from Congleton.

5 pieces of fruit and veg a day – what do you choose to eat?

In Buxton, this will be the fried tomatoes from the breakfast at The Old Manse B&B. Plus the ingredients of post-show vegetable birianis (okra, mainly).

Do you have any superstitions or routines that you follow before starting a performance?

The old arriving-at-the-venue-on-time ritual generally seems to bode well. I always used to perform without my glasses on, so I couldn’t see the audience’s faces, but I’ve become immune to them now.

Buxton Mineral Water – how do you drink it?

Straight from the fountain thing outside the pump rooms. Or am I getting confused with Great Malvern again?

Are there any other performers/artists that you especially admire? If so, who and why?

Mark Gwynne Jones – Matlock’s favourite son. He is the new Stanley Holloway, only madder. John Hegley – everyone should see him at least once before they die.

What question would you have liked to answer here?

Who was Adorno? Can you describe him in four words?

What is your answer?

Miserable German, hated jazz.

by Keith Savage - Published 09/07/2008