A world premiere by some of WA’s most experienced independent artists is coming to Fringe World.  ‘Dirty Cowboy’ is a collaboration between Sally Richardson, Mark Storen, Joe Lui, India Mehta, and starring award-winning actor and musician Tim Solly.

This is a rags to riches tale of the rise and fall of one dirty old town in this dirty big old country. Sheriff Talley upholds the law, or did once… But now sits broken, a bottle of whiskey in his hand. As he drinks the night away he reveals dark brutal tales; of fortune and misfortune, violence and betrayal, heartache and suicide. What happened to this town? Sheriff Talley faces off his demons to find answers to save what he loves most…

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We fired off five questions to Tim Solly.

Did you have any personal experiences to draw upon to play a cowboy?

I grew up in country Victoria on farms so I guess I’m drawing on the experience of living in small towns in rural Australia. The show is about a reckless man who lives on the edge, and I have a lot of experience in that area so the character is very close to home.

Tell us about the show, what’s it all about?

The story is about a man trying to find redemption. He takes some risks and things don’t go to plan, but he returns to town to face the music and prove his innocence. The show weaves original songs in the storytelling

Who are your personal cowboy and country heroes?

Musically, I have spent a lot of time looking at Johnny Cash and Paul Kelly to write this show. I draw a lot of darkness and brooding from Johnny and a lot of truth and honesty from Paul. They have been great teachers. Theatrically I delved deep into the world of the TV series ‘Deadwood’. The character, Al Swearengen, makes my spine tingle and my heart race.

What makes a good mug shot?

Guilt, despair and hatred.

What’s the biggest challenge in performing a one-man show?

The stamina to keep the story moving forward. If you drop the ball at any stage it is hard to find your way back and get to the end. You also can’t hide or pretend because the audience can see right through you.

“The Dirty Cowboy’ is on Summer Nights at The Blue Room, part of Fringe World, from January 27th to 31st. Head to www.fringeworld.com.au to get tickets.