Would you mind giving us an insight into what your show/event/performance is?
My play is called Crush. It’s a British-Somali rom-com about two teenagers who meet in the waiting room of an eating disorder clinic. At its heart, it’s a love story, but it’s also about grief, identity, mental health and the small moments of connection that can completely change someone’s life. I wanted to centre two Somali teenagers with warmth, humour and hope because we still don’t see enough stories like that on stage.
Tell us about the creative team and the process involved?
I’m the writer and performer, and it’s been amazing watching the play grow over the last year. Crush started as part of the Soho Theatre Writers’ Lab and was developed on the London Library Emerging Writer’s Programme before having its first work-in-progress performances at Somali Week Festival where it sold out. Since then we’ve kept developing it through rehearsals, audience feedback and conversations with industry and medical professionals.
The show is directed by Alena Sahota, who’s been brilliant at balancing the humour with the more emotional moments. It’s been a real team effort.
How does it feel coming to (back to) the Fringe?
Surreal! I was at the Fringe in 2023 with Dugsi Dayz, but I was performing in that show. This is my first time bringing a play I’ve written, which makes it feel even more special. I can’t wait!!!
With shows from all over the world at the Fringe, what sets yours apart?
I think it’s the fact that it’s a Somali rom-com. We don’t often see Black Muslim characters at the centre of a story like this, especially one about eating disorders. Crush is funny, awkward and hopeful. It’s just as much about first love as it is about recovery.
On that, is there anything in the production or production team’s backgrounds which influences the way the show is performed or told?
Definitely. As a writer, I wanted to tell a story that felt true to the community I grew up in. I also have lived experience of an eating disorder, so that naturally shaped the writing.
My background in psychology also helped, alongside research and conversations with people with lived experience. I worked closely with my dramaturg, Jen Bakst, to make sure the characters always felt honest.
Is there anything specific you’re hoping the audience will take away?
That they’re not alone. I hope people leave with a better understanding of eating disorders and who they affect. Recovery isn’t straightforward, but connection can make such a big difference.
Your Ideal audience is in attendance, who’s watching? Or more importantly – who isn’t…?
Everyone’s welcome, but I’d especially love to see people who don’t usually feel like theatre is for them. But I definitely think that those who enjoy watching romcoms will appreciate Crush a bit more haha.
It’s an intense month, so where you’re able, how do you plan to relax, and are there any other shows you intend to see or want to recommend?
I’ll definitely be making time to switch off and enjoy Edinburgh between shows. I’m also really excited to support some friends’ work this year, including Reparations by Maryam Garad, Pink Rabbit by Farah Ashraf and The Jolly Fisherman by John Dinneen.
Crush will run at Venue 302, Clover at Underbelly, Bristo Square
Runs: August 5th – August 30th at 15:55pm
Interested in being featured on our Have a Gander page? With many previews and Q&As lined up, we’re always happy to chat about including your show in future articles. Please do get in touch through the contact page to feature in an upcoming ‘Have A Gander’