It’s that time of year when we launch our annual series of Fringe preview Q & A’s. Here, Sarah Milton talks about her show Tumble Tuck.
In one sentence tell us about your show.
Tumble Tuck is a humorous play which explores body image, the modern definition of success and self-confidence – all through the eyes of Daisy, a young woman who has surprisingly found herself on her local swimming team.
What made you decide to bring a show this year?
An extract was first presented at Wilderness Festival by Old Vic New Voices, for one showing and the atmosphere was electric for Tumble Tuck – we had a 200 strong audience and the show really took off.
We then did a night at The Soho Theatre as part of their Soho Rising season, as the play was written on the Soho Writer’s Lab in 2014. The one piece of feedback from audience, producers and the Soho’s team was “get it to Edinburgh!” so I started putting the feelers out and the wonderful Back Here! Theatre picked it up.
Any advice you’ve heard or can give to anyone coming to the Fringe for the first time?
Find a producer who believes in the show as much as you. Helena Doughty of Back Here! Theatre saw the show at The Soho Theatre – she fell in love with Daisy’s story, and cares as much about the character and the play as I do. It was an instantaneous decision when I heard her talking about her love for the show and Daisy. This project had to be with Helena and Back Here! and it’s been an incredible job of passion and commitment so far.
What makes your show stand out from all of the others on offer? (Don’t say that it’s because you’re in it!)
One shockingly pink swimming hat, an ode to KitKats, cheese and jiggly thighs.
What show, other than your own, do you not want to miss?
Milly Thomas, who I’m on Soho Writer’s Alumni Group with, has her play Dust on at The Underbelly, Big Belly – I’ve heard an extract of it which I’m very excited by. Additionally, Every Brilliant Thing is returning to the Roundabout at Summerhall. If you haven’t seen this show by Duncan MacMillan – who first taught me what playwriting was – you must.
Finally, the boring but essential bit…
Name of the show: Tumble Tuck
Venue: Underbelly Cowgate (Iron Belly)
Dates: Thursday 3 – Sunday 27 August 2017 (not 14)
Time: 13:30
