Before Fame
OR
what not to do when you discover one of the world’s greatest pop duos in a village hall
– BY MICHAEL BURDETT –
The extraordinary untold backstory of one of the world’s greatest pop duos – George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley – by the man who discovered them when they were part of an unknown ska band. And how 40 years later he did something remarkable with the recordings they made together. Edinburgh-award-winner Burdett returns with a tale that will make you laugh, cry and scratch your head at how coincidence shapes destiny.
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“Burdett is a compelling raconteur”
Scotsman
“He totally engages the audience” Broadway Baby
“A sure-footed guide who keeps us surprised and involved”
Times
Reviews
Dominic Cavendish (Journalist – The Telegraph)
Loved Michael Burdett, Before Fame at The Pleasance, reminiscing about the time before Wham, and a window on a vanished late 70s and early 80s world. Holding back the years, indeed.
Lucy Porter (Comedian)
Just arrived home from #edfringe but if you’re still there you HAVE to go and see Before Fame at the Pleasance Dome. The story of George and Andrew’s early days, beautifully told and very funny. 5stars
Tracy Chevalier (Author)
Best thing I’ve seen at Edinburgh Fringe: this funny, wistful show about not becoming the manager of Wham!. So much Fringe comedy is one-tone and forgettable. With Michael Burdett there is light and shade and a story. Go, it’s fab!
Nordoff and Robbins (Music Therapy Charity)
Are you at the Edinburgh Fringe? Check out this awesome show in aid of us, cited by The Times as one of the best comedy shows at this year’s festival. Wondering what happened to George Michael before he got famous? You’ll find out at The Pleasance 10 Dome every day of the fringe at 1.35 PM
Debbie Ward (Features Journalist)
Before Fame (Pleasance Dome). Funny and moving story of Wham’s origins in a ska band by guy who tried to get them signed.
Dominic Maxwell (Reviewer The Times)
My Edinburgh Fringe comedy reviews, now with added Natalie Palamides (****) and Michael Burdett: Before Fame (****)
Pimlico Tiger (Fringe Attendee and Reviewer)
Michael Burdett: Before Fame @ThePleasanceDome – a charming and life affirming true – and incredible – story beautifully told. #edfringe2024
Audience Reactions
Adrian Stent (Audience Member)
A remarkable first-hand story of the days before Wham was Wham, told with a wealth of fascinating detail and great warmth by a master story-teller. A big-hearted gem – not to be missed.
Ros Barnes (Audience Member)
Fascinating story, told with humour, heart and thoroughly engaging! Highly recommend!
Debbie Ward (Audience Member)
Warm and engaging show with some lovely twists. One of our favourites of the Fringe this year (and we saw 16 shows). By turns intriguing, funny and emotional.
Anthony Quinn (Audience Member)
This is genuinely one of my favourite shows this year: it’s a real hidden gem. Michael Burdett is a such a fantastic storyteller and he just seems like such a lovely, kind, self-deprecating guy. He’s got amazing inside-track tales of the music industry and he regales them with such humour and warmth. Do not miss it.
Jill Simkin (Audience Member)
A very well put together show. A fascinating story and well presented.
Philip Bryan (Audience Member)
A fascinating story, simply told and totally engaging. Could not recommend it more.
Steven Derbyshire (Audience Member)
Really enjoyable show. Michael is an engaging story teller and gave us a tantalising look at what might have been. I got an LP into the bargain! Highly recommended.
Katrina Farquhar (Audience Member)
An unexpected treat. A really interesting, funny and heartwarming tour of a life well lived. Thank you.
