Ash Flanders chats about his show ASH FLANDERS IS NOTHING

Ash Flanders is Nothing is more than just a show.

It’s introspection. It’s critique. It’s satire. It’s everything, and it’s nothing. And it’s coming to the Brunswick Ballroom for just two shows only this July. A time travelling journey to before COVID times, the show is sure to make you laugh – and maybe even cry.

Ash Flanders is a multi award-winning writer and performer. His solo work includes End Of, Playing to Win, Ash Flanders is Nothing, Special Victim, Meme Girls and Negative Energy Inc. all directed with long-time collaborator Stephen Nicolazzo. He and Declan Greene create theatre under the name Sisters Grimm with Ash also performing in Little Mercy (STC), The Sovereign Wife (MTC Neon), Calpurnia Descending (Malthouse Theatre/STC), Lilith: The Jungle Girl (MTC) and an adaptation of Verdi’s La Traviata (Belvoir). As an actor he has been seen in the solo show Buyer & Cellar (MTC), Blackie Blackie Brown (Malthouse / STC),  Adena Jacobs’ Hedda (Belvoir), The Temple (Malthouse / Pan Pan Theatre), The Golden Dragon (MTC) and Psycho Beach Party (Little Ones Theatre).

Are you excited to be returning to the Brunswick Ballroom?

Ash: Please, after the year we’ve had in Melbourne I’m excited to return anywhere. But, yes, I’m especially excited to return to the Brunswick Ballroom. Getting to take part in (read: STEAL) their opening night gala was a real joy. That staircase was made for grand entrances and also means I’m easier to spot when people inevitably throw lettuce. Even my mother can land one this time!

Can you tell me a bit about your process of writing Ash Flanders is Nothing?

Ash: You know how an oyster can turn an irritating piece of sand into a pearl? That’s what writing allows me to do with my life. I take all the irritants (my family, my partner, death) and turn them into shiny beautiful funny things that look great with any outfit.

What is the most challenging part of writing a cabaret?

Ash: Deciding when’s the best moment to bravely take off your sequinned blazer.

And the most exciting?

Ash: Buying the blazer.

What can audiences expect from Ash Flanders is Nothing?

Ash: Firstly, they can expect a performer who has missed them terribly. This is the longest I’ve gone without you all – and you’re my longest relationship! As for the show itself it’s a very silly look at some very serious things. Last year was pretty wild personally so this is probably my funniest and saddest show to date – and boy, is that saying something. I’ve been crafting and reworking the script for over a year, making sure I’m not wasting a second of our precious time together and I honestly can’t wait to share it with you for – WHAT?!!? TWO NIGHTS ONLY!?!? WHAT A TERRIBLE BUSINESS MODEL! GET MY AGENT ON THE PHONE NOW!!!!!!!

Ash Flanders is Nothing plays July 1st and 8th at the Brunswick Ballroom, Melbourne.

Tickets and more information can be found at brunswickballroom.com.au