EdFringe Talk: The Strongest Girl in the World

Posted in *Written Interviews, EdFestivals 2023 by

“Each one of their stories adds a new layer to my view of my dad. As I come to understand my father better, I also gain a new perspective of my own identity.”

WHO: Truly Siskind-Weiss

WHAT: “‘The best job in life is to be the father of a daughter. It’s like holding a little bird in your hand.’ Dark Skies presents The Strongest Girl in the World, a solo performance about one woman’s journey to learn more about her late father and her former self. Voicing family members, friends, story book characters and more, Truly seeks to understand who her father was. Telling a story of growth, grief and resilience, the play is a comedic and heart-warming look at childhood loss, and how we remember those we love.”

WHERE: Greenside @ Nicolson Square – Fern Studio (Venue 117) 

WHEN: 16:20 (45 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

Yes! Our director, Ellie Stevens, is a seasoned fringe pro, but this will be my first time. I’ve been wanting to bring a show to fringe for years now, and am so happy to finally bring this goal to fruition. As an American living and working in the UK, it’s amazing to be a part of a festival that is recognized all over the world. Our team of emerging artists are all excited to get to meet and connect with other artists, and have the opportunity to have our work seen by a new, diverse audience. The Strongest Girl in the World is a completely autobiographical solo play that is deeply personal to me. I’m thrilled to be sharing this specific story at my first fringe, because there’s on better vehicle through which to introduce myself to the audience. The show paints a complete picture of who I am as an artist and a human being.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2022 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

This is my director’s and my first experience producing our own work at this level. It’s been quite challenging, but we have also learned so much. Every time we are stressed or anxious about the logistical side of the work, we remind ourselves how good it will feel when we finally open our show at fringe. I don’t think I will have ever been prouder than I will be on August 4th.

Tell us about your show.

The Strongest Girl in the World is a solo performance that details my journey to learn more about my father who passed away when I was 10 years old. Because I lost my father when I was so young, I don’t remember him as deeply as I would like to. As I say in the show, “I know my father through other people.” Throughout the play, I embody those other people, becoming family members, and story book characters. Each one of their stories adds a new layer to my view of my dad. As I come to understand my father better, I also gain a new perspective of my own identity. I began writing this play about 5 years ago as part of a class assignment in University. That original script was 15 minutes long.

In the intervening years, I have added to the story, bit by bit; working slowly to make sure that the play was as honest as possible. I performed a version of the piece at the Alma Tavern Theatre in Bristol last August. That production was directed by Lowri Mathias. My current director, Ellie Stevens, came on board this year. Having had the opportunity to work with her numerous times during our master’s program at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, I knew that she would bring a thoughtful perspective and fresh energy to the piece. Ellie has understood the importance of humor and levity to the story, and has elevated the piece beyond what I could’ve imagined. Our designers and fellow Bristol creatives, Lorna Foster, and Mikey Cross have skillfully helped us to bring Ellie’s vision to life. We had a great preview run at the Bread and Roses Theatre in early June, where we were able to collect valuable audience feedback that we’ve incorporated into the show. After our run at the Fringe, we are hoping to tour the show throughout the UK, and ultimately bring it to my hometown, New York City.

What should your audience see at the festivals after they’ve seen your show?

We are so excited to see the other one woman shows on at Greenside. If you follow the hashtag #Greensidegals you can learn more about the other feminist shows on offer at our venue. We are also looking forward to seeing Charlotte Anne-Tilley’s show “Almost Adult.” We were thrilled to meet her at our London previews and hear all about her show. She’s also helping to spread the word about women-run shows on all of her social media so make sure you check that out! Finally, we’re excited to see BEASTS: why girls shouldn’t fear the dark. Mandi Chivasa is also sharing some great info about shows from working class artists.

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