This July we were thrilled to have the comedic bombshell whom has forged a career that takes many guises; Tracey Collins – back to the Factory stage.
We approached Tracey to give us some insight into her background in theatre, what her processes are for her love to take on some of the worlds most recognizable characters and give them the remarkable ‘Tracey Collins make-over’ and bring them here to TFT for Bristol to enjoy first hand. We hope you relish the insight as much as we do!
“I’m a musical character comedian with roots in youth theatre, where I first discovered my passion for performing.
That love evolved into singing pop (badly!) and later fronting (much cooler!) live bands. From there, I found my way into cabaret—writing, composing and creating my own character-led musical comedy shows.
My creative process is impulsive: once I’ve got a spark of an idea, I book a live date and build the show from there.
It’s all about momentum, energy, and trying something new.
I’ve also loved bringing my musical comedy bingo nights to The Tobacco Factory Theatres, where I’ll be returning again in January with Bingo at Tiffany’s!
Last year, TFT also hosted Charles & Diana: The Reunion Tour, a show I made with Russell Lucas. Their support has been incredible.
There’s a brilliant team at TFT—creatively inspiring, friendly, and endlessly supportive. It always feels like home, and especially since I get to stay in gorgeous Bristol and catch up with my mate Jim, who’s now a local!”
When asking Tracey what were her most recent hightlights, she said “debuting Feminem at festivals—a riotous mash-up of pop goddess meets rap god. It’s been an absolute joy to perform.
I”‘m also really looking forward to some of my future creative plans and projects including:
- Sue 2 – a one-woman comedy U2 tribute band!
- Sticky Vicky’s Chippy – A comedy short co-written and created with Michelle Luther and directed by Lucy Speed.
- And next year, a brand-new full-length solo show: There Is a Spotlight That Never Goes Out—a darkly funny re-imagining of faded Hollywood legends Moody Judy and Audrey Heartburn, exiled in the UK, drowning their sorrows and singing The Smiths.”
If you missed Samantha Groans; Bingo in the City earlier this month, fear not, Tracey will be back with ‘Audrey Heartburn; Bingo at Tiffany’s’ in the new year, a sure way to brighten up a cold January evening!
Check out more of Tracey’s work at www.traceycollins.com
Posted on 22 July 2025
