Punk rock, snazzy cardigans, a crochet cow and Alan Partridge? We delve deep into playwright Laura Horton’s new show

Fringe First Winner Laura Horton is bringing her show Lynn Faces to Edinburgh Fringe this year. Fans of Alan Partridge will recognise Lynn’s persona from the long-suffering assistant Lynn Benfield in the iconic TV show. Lynn Faces follows the aftermath, echoes, and effects of an abusive relationship intertwined with punk music and comedy, of course.

We had a chat with Laura to find out more about her influences, her previous work and why she feels a connection to Lynn.

How did your identification with Lynn Benfield from Alan Partridge influence the central character in your show?

In the play my protagonist Leah is a huge fan of Lynn Benfield, much like myself. In a bid to try and heal from a toxic break-up she decides to start a punk band inspired by Lynn from Alan Partridge. This was inspired by the time I drunkenly booked a gig in a pub basement having decided to start a punk band inspired by Lynn. Unlike my character though, I sobered up and realised as none of us could play anything, we probably shouldn’t go ahead…

What was it like transitioning from writing to also acting in your own play for the first time?

We go into rehearsals next week and I’m not sure I’ve given myself much time to think about the acting process yet. I’ve been so focused on getting the project off the ground, fundraising, writing the piece, supporting the producing, marketing, production managing, the full-size knitted cow etc, (see more about that on BBC News here) it’s been so full on! I’m sure I’ll be suitably terrified next week though.

How does Lynn Faces differ from your previous shows?

It’s so unlike anything I’ve written before. My first two plays, Labyrinth Diet and Breathless were both monologues, I’ve since been working on four further plays, The Shredder, Life Underwater and two other as yet unnamed pieces, but they are all formally quite different too. Lynn Faces is honestly quite bizarre, and I think the first time I’ve allowed myself to lean into my instinct for silliness. 

What has been the most rewarding part of creating Lynn Faces?

When I first floated Lynn Faces as a concept it had a mixed response and I wobbled, but finally trusting my gut and starting to realise it has been wonderful. It’s allowed me to explore what I’m capable of, not only as a writer, but in so many parts of the process of creation. From the concept for the marketing image to the execution, crochet workshops for the cow, and pulling together an incredible team of people. 

How does it feel to be recognised with a Fringe First Award for your previous show ‘Breathless?’                                                                                           

I feel incredibly lucky. Breathless was my first fringe play and I had no concept of how it would be received. I remember standing in the vegetable aisle in Lidl when I got the call, and I couldn’t believe it. Being able to phone the team to tell them felt so special.

What advice would you give to aspiring playwrights and actors?

It’s not a linear process, so expect ups and downs, keep going but know when to take breaks and rest. Don’t be afraid to try things, don’t be afraid to fail as it’s part of the process.

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/