EDINBURGH 2017: BWW Q&A- Katharine Ferns

Tell us a bit about Katharine Ferns Is In Stitches.

I am a Canadian comedian based in Manchester and this brutally funny storytelling show is a comedic journey about learning to laugh at the visible and invisible scars of surviving mental illness, domestic violence, drug addiction plus some feminism for comic relief. The story begins on April 21, 2016 the day Prince passed away and Katharine ends up in stitches (literally). Come to the show and you'll end up in stitches too (figuratively).

Why bring it to Edinburgh?

This is the biggest arts festival and I want to bring this story to a larger audience to reach as many people as possible. The issues of violence and mental health are huge issues that we don't talk about enough and through comedy I am able to talk about my experiences in an accessible way. My show has already helped other people talk about their experiences from the messages I have received from other survivors and from people that want to be advocates for change in how we deal with domestic violence in society. Also, it is an amazing festival to improve as a performer and to meet other people from around the world. And the haggis is wonderful.

What sets it apart from other shows at the Fringe?

My show is a true story about my experiences with domestic violence, mental health issues, drug addiction and learning how to accept the past to move forward. Many women and men have experienced what I have gone through but no one else could tell my story the way that I do with this brutally honest and funny show.

Who would you recommend comes to see you?

Everyone! Well, anyone except young children. The show is explicit, sometimes dirty and has very dark humour. Also, if you are a fan of the singer Prince you will love the show. Around 10% of the show is about Prince and his music.

What's next for you after the festival?

In September I am taking the show to the Vancouver Fringe in Canada and then I will be performing the show in the small town in Alberta where the events of the show originally happened. In a sense, I am returning to the scene of the crime to tell my story and reveal the truth of what happened to me there that I hid from everyone for so long.

Timings and ticket information for Katharine Ferns Is In Stitches are available on the edfringe website.