Laura Horton's captivating new play, Lynn Faces takes inspiration from the beloved character Lynn from Alan Partridge. This show intertwines punk rock energy with a poignant narrative of finding hope in the aftermath of an abusive relationship. With elements like a full-size crochet cow and a snazzy cardigan, Lynn Faces promises a unique blend of humour and heart. Join us as we delve into Laura's creative process, her relationship with her Mum, and how she faces the pressures of following up her previous Fringe success.
Can you explain a bit about the meaning behind the title Lynn Faces for those unfamiliar with Alan Partridge?
My new play Lynn Faces is inspired by the character Lynn from Alan Partridge. My friend and I always loved her, and one day I pulled a face at her and she said: "Laura that's a Lynn face." It became a thing between us and then just sat in my head. I wanted to write something about finding hope after abuse, and I thought combining a punk band and Lynn felt like the right thing! There are lots of elements in the show that are inspired by Partridge, including a full-size crochet cow, but for anyone coming, not knowing the show won't exclude you from enjoying the play.
Your previous Edinburgh Fringe show Breathless was a huge success. Do you ever find it intimidating living up to a standard that you have set yourself?
I'm really trying not to compare this to Breathless because I definitely so feel an element of pressure having had my show go so well in 2022. Lynn Faces is so different so I know I need to try not to think too much about how this might go. I think it's important to keep challenging yourself to try new things. I hoping that trusting my instincts here pays off!
Your show spans over a 10-year period of your life - do you use tools such as journals and diaries to recall how you were feeling at the time or is it from memory?
I haven't with this one because although there are elements of it that are based on reality (the fact I booked a gig, collected Lynn faces and met Viv Albertine), it's a fictional work and not based on real people. It was important to me to create a new world of characters and events.
What are your pre-show rituals to get you in the zone?
When I'm there as a writer, I always sit at the back and take some quiet moments. My mum gave me a little coin with an Angel on it to help with nerves, I hold it during the show. This is my first acting role so I'm going to be asking the team if they have any useful rituals I can adopt.
Your mother, Babs Horton, has her own show In the Lady Garden this year at the Fringe. Do you give each other creative advice while writing?
We do give each other advice. I really trust my mum and feel very grateful that we're both writers and can help each other. We often read each other's work out and we've both read each other's Edinburgh Fringe shows - I love her play so much. I'm so proud of her for taking her first play to the Fringe at 71 and I know we'll be keeping each other sane this year. The Fringe is so incredible but it's also a beast!
Lynn Faces will be performed at 7.35pm in Summerhall Main Hall from 1st – 26th August (Not 12th or 19th)
Booking Link: https://festival24.summerhall.co.uk/events/lynn-faces/
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