‘I was victim of homophobic attack, I’ve turned it into ridiculous comedy show’

In 2024, Linus Karp was the victim of a homophobic attack in London’s Soho, days before he and husband Joseph Martin were set to perform at Edinburgh Fringe.

Now, Karp has turned the horrific ordeal into a stage show, and is returning to Edinburgh Fringe with it.

The 60-minute show, called Linus Karp Was Hit With an Umbrella, is on at Underbelly, Bristo Square (Friesian) from 5 to 30 August, and tickets are available now. It is also running in London’s Park Theatre from 23 to 25 July, with tickets also on sale.

Ahead of what is sure to be a hilarious, yet thought-provoking show, PinkNews spoke to Linus Karp, who, alongside husband Joseph Martin, have created other unforgettable shows, such as Gwyneth Goes Skiing, and Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story, together as Awkward Prods.

PinkNews: What made you want to turn such a horrible moment in your life into a play for the public?

Linus Karp: Like many queer people I have been very concerned about the rise of queerphobic rhetoric and politics in the last few years. After this attack and the investigation that followed, I was writing a lot about my experiences. I started feeling like I had an important story to tell with it, and after sharing it with my husband and a couple of friends they all told me, “this is your next show”.

What can people expect from the show?

A first-hand recounting of a homophobic attack and all the things that followed. How my husband tackled the attacker and held him until the police arrived. The public reaction, the police investigation that followed, performing at Edinburgh Fringe days after the attack, trying to find closure. Whilst it deals with many serious topics, it still has space for ridiculous comedy. Ultimately, I think it’s a show about legacy.

How are you feeling about showcasing it at Edinburgh Fringe?

I was so scared about announcing this show. I thought writing an autobiographical piece might be easier, but it’s been the most researched, most emotional, personal and by far the hardest script I’ve written. I am so grateful to have such a great team around me, and have had one of my favourite writers, Haley McGee, working on the show as a dramaturg which has been amazing. I feel proud of what we’re presenting, and I am so ready to bring this show to the stage.

How have you dealt with the aftermath of the attack?

You’ll have to see the show to find out! I am very grateful to have had many loving friends and family around me, and especially my husband Joseph who is just the most supportive person. I also had counselling after the attack, and writing this show, talking to people about it and talking to others who have been victims of queerphobic attacks has been very cathartic.

You say you felt some sympathy for the attacker; can you explain what you mean?

The best thing in the world is queer joy so, anyone who is filled with the opposite of that clearly can’t be happy. People who commit these acts must’ve had a pretty miserable existence. It’s difficult, but I do feel sorry for my attacker.

Did it make you change anything about the way you present yourself or your relationship in public?

In all honesty, it made me scared, and can still affect me, particularly if I am on my own. I think twice before wearing something that is visibly queer. I don’t like that these thoughts have entered my mind, but I don’t feel as safe as I used to.

How important do you think queer visibility is in public spaces?

None of us would dare to express our queerness in public if others hadn’t done it before us. In a time where queerphobia is on the rise and so much safety is taken away from us, it is paramount that we still have queer visibility. It’s why I felt the need to share this story so publicly as well.

Awkward Prods shows are known for being very funny, how have you balanced the serious with the humour?

We’ve always felt that comedy makes things more accessible and laughter helps us get through our darkest moments. This is my story to tell, which also means it’s my story to joke about, should I so wish. There’s a lot of light and comedy in the show, I wouldn’t want to make a show any other way.

Your shows are also great examples of queer joy – have you ever faced backlash because of the content?

Of course there has been backlash for making queer comedic shows. Sometimes bigots are upset that I dress as a woman in shows, sometimes that they are political. But it works in our advantage too – no five-star review has sold as many tickets as Daily Mail labelling us “repellent trash”. If you are going to hate us, we will monetise your hate.

How do you think queer people can balance being visible and joyful, while also being safe?

Ultimately the safety of queer people is not the responsibility of the queer individuals who are just living their queer lives. It is the homophobes and transphobes that need to be stopped, not us having to be more careful or tone down how we live our lives. Everyone in society deserves to live a safe life, given the horrific rise of LGBT hate crimes in the last few years we must demand that authorities do better.

What is your message for the people out there still trying to attack queer visibility and joy?

Firstly, I’d ask why you read PinkNews? Seems a bit fruity, I can’t lie… I’d maybe say – try and be more queer? I promise you, life is more fun that way.

Linus Karp Was Hit With An Umbrellaplays Park Theatre, London, 23rd to 25th July, 8:30pm, information and tickets here: https://parktheatre.co.uk/events/linus-karp-was-hit-with-an-umbrella.

The show will then run at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, performing from 5th to 30th August at Underbelly Bristo Square (Friesian) at 8:20pm. Tickets here: https://underbellyedinburgh.co.uk/event/linus-karp-was-hit-with-an-umbrella.

Share your thoughts! Let us know in the comments below, and remember to keep the conversation respectful.