So what’s this “In Utero” all about anyway? Here’s an interview I did (with myself) if you want to know more. Which you should, because it’s amazing.

Hey gurl, how are you? You look great!

Thanks bitch, I feel great! You’re ridiculously pretty. I can’t believe anyone would ever dump you or not text you back ever. You are such a catch!

Thanks, you too! Anyway, so tell me, what is In Utero all about?

In Utero is the story of Jenni and David who are married, in love and expecting their first child. They are mad excited about it until they are told that their child will be born severely disabled. From that point, they begin to drift apart as they both deal with the new situation in their own ways. It explores how the news affects their relationship with each other, and with their child.  The main themes I explore are guilt, unconditional love, loss of control and trying to do what’s right.

 

Sounds pretty heavy.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s a mad intense show and it does cover serious issues. But interjected amongst all the doom and gloom is some light hearted comedy. The play jumps around with time- showing the couple before the news, then after, then before, etc etc and this provides some light relief, but also emphasises how drastic the change in their relationship dynamic has become.

Well that sounds exciting! You must be a great writer.

I am the best.

You really are. Tell me, babe, what was the inspiration for this play? 

This play started off as a development from a previous script I wrote called “Unplanned”, but has became it’s own piece. Unplanned was about a young couple who have an unexpected pregnancy- an unplanned one if you will- and it centres around whether or not they will keep the child.

So is In Utero about abortion?

Not at all. Jenni is a control freak, and everything has to be perfect. Her story arc is about her struggle to come to terms with a loss of control, and the guilt she feels for the situation. David’s arc focuses on him doing whatever it takes to make everything ok, no matter the cost.

I see. That’s some development. You must be a fantastic writer.

Like I said, I’m the best.

How has this changed since you took it to the Edinburgh Fringe in August?

For a start, I have a new team on board. This is being directed by Kyle Byers and David is being played by Stephen Arthur. I had a blast working with the previous team and Amir did a fantastic job as David, but unfortunately he is far too busy, but this means we bring a whole new set of life to the show. By changing the team, the show already has a very different vibe.

The script has also been given a bit of a revamp. The structure is still the same, but there has been more focus on different aspects of the character. With the Edinburgh Fringe, you have time restraints whereas for this I was able to take the time to develop and explore different things.

There’s still shit loads of Scrabble in it.

You’re so amazing.

Thanks, you are too. And so pretty. So, so pretty.

I’m not going to lie, this sounds like the best show ever written. When can I see it?

We will be performing on 23rd, 24th, 25th May in the bungo as part of the Southside Fringe. Tickets are available here, or can be bought on the door. Doors are at 7.30pm, show starts at 8pm.

Thanks! I can’t wait to see it!

I can’t wait for you to see it!

I love you.

I love you too.