All posts by Steph
eMobile – all a bit samey
So eircom’s eMobile launched today. Their homepage features a talking green-screened lady in a trenchcoat. She’s no Lucy Kennedy.
The branding – the name, colours and typography – keeps reminding me of the competitiors, Three mobile. If I was entering such a competitive market I’d be trying to set myself apart.
17:59
No change here then. Consistency is good though 
Absolut Fringe review: Shane Byrne left his SLEEPING BAG in the car again…
Part of the THEATREclub trio of shows in this year’s Fringe, this show follows along in the vein of Shane’s previous one-man gig, ‘Group Therapy For One’.
“I am sick of talking about being young. I have to do this in order to grow up.”
So Shane takes us back to the golden days of youth, specifically to the days of being in Scouts, also termed his period of “immersive research” for this piece.
It’s a really charming production – quite poignant at times and nostalgic even you were never in Scouts through the carefully chosen soundtrack of various songs anchoring the memories in the late 90′s. Shane’s charisma, charm and brilliant wit make for a lovely interactive and chuckle-filled experience.
I left it with a smile on face and a smille in my heart – not much more you can ask for on a rainy Monday night.
It’s running at Smock Alley until Friday at 7.15, grab a ticket here or pick up a ’3 for €32′ for all 3 THEATREclub shows here.
Absolut Fringe Beginners – tips for Fringe virgins
Over the last few days since Fringe kicked off I’ve heard something similar to this a number of times:
“I’ve always meant to go to something in the Fringe but I’ve no idea where to start.”
You could probably debate the reasons for this till the cows come home but in my opinion the Fringe programme is quite overwhelming. There’s over 100 different shows to choose from spread over 2 weeks – it’s a pretty big sweetshop. Last year was the first time I threw myself into Fringe and it has since become my favourite festival of the entire year.
I would love for even one person who has thought about going to a Fringe show for the first time to make the plunge and tell me what they think so here’s a few tips and pointers on catching some Fringe action over the next 10 days.
Book your tickets asap
Fringe booking opened a few weeks before the festival kicked off but booking really takes off once word gets out about what’s hot and what’s not. Once you’ve eyed up a show or 2, book them quick. You can do this online via www.fringefest.com.
I’m up for a laugh.
Super. Then there’s plenty to choose from. The most chuckles I’ve had at Fringe so far has been at ‘Shane Byrne left his SLEEPING BAG in the car again…’ – funny, nostalgic, poignant in places and particularly entertaining if you were ever in Scouts. If it’s laugh-a-minute stuff you’re after, catch The Pyjama Men.
I’m up for a challenge.
Excellent. HEROIN is my favourite of all shows I’ve seen in Fringe so far. I have a quick review here. If you’re made of strong stuff then try Jerk. Based on a true story of serial murderers in the 1970s told in very graphic horrific detail through puppetry and guttural sound effects – stunning technique but prepare to be shocked.
I want something very now.
Of course the current economic climate makes it into the programme. Maybe try ‘We’re all in the gutter’ or ‘The Cappucino Culture‘ for boom aftermath insights from our new multicultural population.
I fancy something a bit out of the ordinary.
How about seeing a show in a crumbling Georgian mansion on Georges Street? Check out ‘From The Heart‘.
I’m broke.
Fret not – there’s a list of free events right here. Escape form the Dead Zoo is catching my eye in particular.
Tickets for Fringe shows usually average out around €15 which ain’t too bad at all. Take a punt on something. You might love it, you might hate it, but at least give it a go!
Sifting through the programme
What you might find easier is looking at what’s on day by day or by category, both available on http://www.fringefest.com/2010-programme. The iPhone app is free to download and pretty handy too, especially the day by day guide and Google map integration of all the venues around town.
Hang on to your ticket(s) too for some really nice deals in eateries around the city, full list available here.
See you out there!