Edinburgh Festival return for alumna

Multi-award-winning writer takes her latest show to the international festival this summer.

Writer for stage, television and film, Laura Horton is no stranger to stages in the UK and US.

Her new play Lynn Faces follows her Fringe First-winning show, Breathless.

Last year also saw Breathless staged at Soho Theatre and as part of Brits Off Broadway in New York, with Laura launching accompanying digital project, Hidden by Things.

"Laura Horton’s poignant comic monologue delivers a sympathetic portrayal of a sample-sale hoarder." (Breathless - New York Times Critic's Pick)

In her latest work for stage, Laura explores the impact of abusive behaviour, the power of friendship and how silliness can be healing.

Nearing 40, painfully shy, and emerging from a toxic break-up, Leah forms a punk band inspired by Lynn from Alan Partridge in Lynn Faces.

As Leah takes to the stage with no musical ability, the question is: will this gig push her further over the edge or help her regain confidence and the hope she needs to move on.

Artistic consultant at the Barbican Theatre, Plymouth-based Laura Horton (BA 2006, English Literature) was listed in The Stage 100 for her work lobbying and campaigning with her project Theatre Stories in 2021.

The first woman and playwright to be appointed Plymouth Laureate of Words, her award-winning plays include Labyrinth Diet (OFFCOMM winner); Breathless (2022 Edinburgh Fringe First winner), Popcorn (BBC Writer’s Room finalist) and Holden Street (Scottish Mental Health Awards shortlist).

Her 2020 short film, A Summer of Birds won the Toast of the Fringe award.

Co-commissioned by New Diorama Theatre, Norwich Theatre and Theatre Royal Plymouth, Lynn Faces premieres at Edinburgh Fringe Festival (Summerhall, 1 – 26 August). A UK tour follows in Spring 2025.