The Buzz Intro Interview - Malcolm Grissom
Respondent: Malcolm Grissom Name of Company: Funnymanmalcolm Productions Name of Show: The Voices Made Me Do It
“Whenever I create a story, I try to leave the audience with something to think about. I try to create shows that inspire others to make some sort of social change, no matter how small.”
1. Why should anybody see your show?
Why not? Last year, I brought “Can’t Ain’t Nothing but a Four-letter Word” to this festival. Everyone who saw it loved it. In fact, everywhere I’ve performed it, people have raved about it. The one common note I got from people last years was that they would like to see me do more with the story. So, this show adds to the basic story of “Can’t Ain’t Nothing but a Four-letter Word”. People who saw the show, which won the critic’s choice award (jus’ saying), should see how the new stories enhance the show. People who didn’t see this last year should see it because there’s something in it for everyone. It’s hilarious, and poignant; and a must see of the festival.
2. Why Atlanta?
I left my toothbrush at The Highland Inn last year. I’ve gone a year without brushing my teeth, and my dentist (picture Steve Martin in Little Shop of Horrors) is FURIOUS!!!! So, I thought as long as I’m here, I might as well support Diana and Chris and Cherry and Molly and Nadia, the rest of the Atlanta Fringe Festival team, and all of the other participants in this year’s festival.
3. What inspired you to create this?
People.
Whenever I create a story, I try to leave the audience with something to think about. I try to create shows that inspire others to make some sort of social change, no matter how small. In my previous show called “Can’t Ain’t Nothing But a Four-letter Word”, I sought to tell a story that might motivate people not to judge others who are different then them. With this show, I want to inspire people to connect, or reconnect, with others.
4. What’s your process for creating and rehearsing something like this?
I could tell you, but I’d have to kill you.
I start with a story or idea I want to express, and then I think of other personal stories that may have something in common. And then I write. I write, and work with collaborators who help shape my ideas. I listen to music and read books which may spark creative ways for me to put everything together. And then, once I have the writing, I rehearse it, and let my mind and body guide me.
5. What have you learned from working on your show so far?
Creating something is a beautiful, and sometimes, never-ending process that can lead you in unforeseen and interesting directions.
6. Tyler Perry, Jane Fonda, Killer Mike and NeNe Leakes roll up at your show. There is one ticket left. Who gets it?
Duh??!! Mr. Mike Tyler Fonda Leakes. They should all see this show. I’d do a private showing, if need be.
7. Atlanta’s foodie scene is really on point these days. What does your show taste like?
One of Willy Wonka’s chocolate-covered gobstoppers. Sweet, with a kick, and a twinge of bitterness. But, no matter how much you have, you’ll never get fat. Perhaps, it would make a fine dessert after an Italian fest at Veni Vidi Vici.
Malcolm killing it at last year’s festival.
8. Fringes are the place to really push the boundaries so we gotta ask: would you want your parents in the front row or would you tell them, “Maybe skip this one, guys…”?
Definitely In the front row.
9. Will your show save mankind?
YES!! Laughter will save the world. My show invokes laughter. Therefore, my show saves the world.
10. Oh boy! A mysterious benefactor gave you a million dollars after your first show! What do you do?
I’m buying a really big feast at Veni Vidi Vici.
11. Describe your show in three words.
Emotional, personal, love-jaunt
For more information on Malcolm Grissom, please visit his website, or on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.