EDINBURGH 2016: BWW Q&A - Killer Cells

BWW speaks to writer/actress Rachel Pedley-Miller about her Edinburgh Fringe 2016 show Killer Cells.

Tell us a bit about Killer Cells.

Killer Cells is a play about optimism and resilience. Since sharing the play with audiences, I have found that Killer Cells is the story of many women, men, mothers, fathers and grandparents. One in three women suffer a miscarriage; however, it is a topic that is not spoken about openly. In 2012 I had my first miscarriage and it wasn't until I had six miscarriages that I told anyone at work. For two years it was a closely guarded secret between me, my parents and my husband. I have now had eleven miscarriages and an ectopic pregnancy. Killer Cells is my story that I need to tell to share the hope I feel (that many potential parents feel) about the possibility of having a child of their own, even when the journey to child birth is hard.

Is it hard to perform something so personal?

I have to admit there are parts of the play that are very difficult to re-live; I feel these are the most important elements, as they share the experiences that many women go though when facing the tests and unexpected losses. Sharing my experience with other miscarriage sufferers has helped me, as I have found that I am certainly not alone and I feel their need for this topic to have a open platform, this need gives me the strength to re-live the tough times, so that miscarriages can be spoken about more freely. If more people share their experiences and positive outcome that message of hope can reach more people.

Why did you decide to bring it to Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is the start of the world stage for Killer Cells. People from across the globe go through miscarriages, it is a play that will speak to many people. We are wanting to link into those global contacts to share this story of optimism and resilience.

Do you think you know what to expect from the Fringe?

We are attending the fringe to work, get out there and network, perform to small intimate audiences, meet families and speak to them about their experiences. We only have a week and we intend to be out there every second to link with potential audiences and future venues.

How has audience feedback been so far?

"So hard hitting, so true, so raw and bloody brilliant", "A roller coaster ride of happiness, desperation but in the end there is always hope" - feedback from audience member in our preview show.

Who do you think your show appeals to?

Men in their 60s remembering their struggles 30 years ago, whose sons and daughters may be struggling now, women and men who are going through the same thing now, midwives, doctors, anybody who wants to hear a story of strength, anyone who wants to see women in a play that puts women in the main roles. There is something that could speak to everyone.

Timings and ticket information for Killer Cells is available on the edfringe website.

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