With glitter, eyeliner and copious amounts of attitude, Otto & Astrid are the glam-punk siblings bringing their explosive comedy cabaret mayhem to Jackson’s Lane for one night only this July as part of London Clown Festival. Equal parts concert (parodying music gigs) and chaotic sibling showdown, The Stages Tour combines high-energy anthems, outrageous fashion, and an undercurrent of genuine heart. Known globally for their theatrical performances and distinctive DIY style, the duo talk fashion icons, sibling tensions, and what Fab UK readers can expect when they take the stage in London.
Q: The Stages Tour is full of high-energy music and comedy – how do you keep that momentum night after night?
OTTO: We are a very serious art rock band. I’m not sure why we keep getting booked to do shows at comedy venues and festivals. Maybe people are laughing because they’re enjoying themselves so much, they can’t help it.
Q: Your sibling dynamic is at the heart of the show – how has that evolved (or exploded) over time?
OTTO: I don’t think it’s changed. Astrid is still exactly the same amount of sister as when we started the band. The only thing that’s grown is the number of things she’s angry at me about.
Q: You’ve performed all over the world – how does a London audience compare to others?
OTTO: London people get very excited. After shows here, we’ve had people ask us to sign all kinds of body parts. Astrid sometimes signs my name for me because I get nervous.
Q: Glam rock and cabaret have always played with gender, spectacle and rebellion. How do you use style to make a statement on stage?
OTTO: We’ve always been obsessed with make-up. When we were kids, we were inspired by artists with a distinctive look—KISS, Cyndi Lauper, Marc Bolan, Nina Hagen, and David Bowie were all big influences. We think if people can hear us with their eyes, then we’re doing it right. Glam rock lets us be loud in every sense of the word.
Q: Can you tell us about your costume choices and how they reflect your characters?
OTTO: I had custom rock ‘n’ roll kick pants made so I could do leaps like Pete Townshend but also look cool like The Libertines. Astrid doesn’t care if her clothes help her play the drums better—she just wants to look cool. And honestly, she usually does.
Q: Which fashion designers (living or dead) do you think really get Otto & Astrid?
OTTO: Astrid is obsessed with Vivienne Westwood and gets things made by Alice Edgely. I wear the same thing every day. The best thing about having, like, a uniform is it reduces decision fatigue, and I can just concentrate on making great rock ’n’ roll music. Every day.
Q: What can Fab UK readers expect from your one-night-only London show?
OTTO: Just imagine if we were playing a whole week of shows—all that rock ‘n’ roll energy. We’re gonna squeeze it into one night!
Otto & Astrid are bringing The Stages Tour to Jackson’s Lane Theatre on the 2nd July at 7:30pm as part of London Clown Festival. Tickets are available HERE