June 2023
Heading to the Camden Fringe this August is hard-hitting feminist comedy “Over Influenced”, a sharp look at celebrity and influencer culture which plays at both the Canal Café Theatre (11th – 13th) and the Etcetera Theatre (25th – 27th). Suzie Houlihan and Katie Alexander star in this dark comedy with grown-up themes to match – here, they offer some insights about the show, their shared humour and what led them into the arts…
So how did Over Influenced come about?
SH: Katie and I met working at a Show at the Box in Soho over 10 years ago. We reconnected during online acting classes in lockdown with the world renowned acting coach Ivana Chubbuck.
KAT: She’s been an integral creative influence in this production and really pushed us to dig deeper and create more empowered and meaningful work.
SH: We wanted to use this to create a story that draws from our experiences, which is both cathartic and empowering.
KAT: But also really funny!
And can audiences expect a classic mix of light and dark?
SH: Our show is a dark comedy so there’s moments of everything.
KAT: Yeah, there’s a lot of physical comedy, pauses for more meaningful conversations and a lot of love.
Is there a specific USP that you think audiences will love when it comes to Over Influenced?
KAT: Our USP is our unique humour, and empowered storytelling
SH: Yes, having worked to closely with the Chubbuck technique, its a style of acting that creates a real connection between the audience and characters.
Who are you hoping will see this show and what are you hoping they’ll take away with them?
SH: Sharon Horgan, that she’s got to have us on her team.
KAT: For me it’s Tracey Pakosta, for the same reasons.
Are there trigger warnings or age restrictions to be aware of?
KAT: Yes, plenty of trigger warnings. It’s an adult show dealing with adult themes.
SH: If you offend easily our show is probably not for you.
Quick fire time! You are offering audiences big laughs with this show, so tell me: who makes you laugh most?
KAT: Suzie
SH: Katie
Best show you’ve seen this year?
SH & KAT: One Woman Show by Liz Kingsman.
Your route into the arts?
SH: I was training as a solicitor and realised I hated it. I left and followed my true calling and went to drama school.
KAT: As a child actor in a Spice Girls music video.
Both very entertaining starts! Dream role or venue to play?
KAT: The Joker.
SH: This.
In one line or less, why should audiences come along to see Over Influenced this August?
SH: In the words of the late and great Tina Turner: “(We’re) simply the best, better than all the rest”.
KAT: What she said.
So there you have it! You can catch Katie and Suzie in “Over Influenced” this August: Canal Café Theatre (11th – 13th) and the Etcetera Theatre (25th – 27th). You can find more information and tickets here. Full dates and times below:
Canal Cafe theatre:
11th: @7.30pm
12th: @7.30pm
13th: @5pm
Etcetera theatre:
25th: @3pm
26th: @1pm
27th: @1pm
Always Time For Theatre 
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