EdFringe Talk: I Almost Died for This?! (A love story. Sort of.)

Posted in *EdFestivals 2026, *Written Interviews by

“The huge challenge of Edfringe is probably a big part of what makes it such an amazing and satisfying experience overall.”

WHO: Kristina Libby

WHAT: “‘A powerful piece about love, loss, and choosing connection’ ***** (AllAboutSolo.com). ‘All Soul’ (Forbes). Winner: Best Storytelling Show – United Solo Fest. I Almost Died for This?! is a one-woman show about a good girl who meets her soulmate, gets in way over her head, suffers a brain injury, and comes roaring back. Kristina Libby has been published in The New Yorker, McSweeney’s, Elle, and appeared on ABC, NBC, CBS and PBS.”

WHERE: Space 1 at theSpace on the Mile (Venue 39) 

WHEN: Varies (55 min)

MORE: Click Here!

Is this your first time to Edinburgh?

No! I went last year as an audience member and fell in love with the whole experience. I loved it; it felt spiritual and magical and I wanted to be part of that. I love the small spaces and big, ambitious shows. As an audience member I felt like I received so much wisdom and of course, there is so much joy and laughter. I was already developing my show, I Almost Died for This, but attending gave me rocket fuel to really make a great show and bring it back.

What are the big things you’ve learned since 2025 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?

In the last twelve months, I’ve really seen how essential authentic and transparent communication is with each other. My show is my true story, laid as bare as possible, so as to allow other people to see themselves and find a sacred space to share their feelings.

So much of my life was about being a “good girl” and required that I behave with a mask on my true wants and needs. But, when I was able to finally be myself, I was also to really have deep, compelling and meaningful conversations with people who then felt free to be themselves. I think that is the power of this show but also the power of living as holistically as we can.

Tell us about your show.

My show, I Almost Died for This?!, is autobiographical. It’s the story of a good girl, who gets in way over her head, finds a soulmate, loses a soulmate, gets a traumatic brain injury and then comes roaring back. The recovery is due to the twinned healing power of art and community.

It’s self-written and self-produced. But directed by Padraic Lillis with violin accompaniment by Daniel Lee. We performed in NYC twice – both times for 3 night runs to sold out audiences and great reviews. All About Solo gave the show five stars and said “May we all have Kristina Libby’s heart.” On the strength of those runs, we are taking it to Fringe – but also I love the festival. It’s a beautiful month celebrating creativity and creative voices. I can’t wait to be there!

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

Friendliest by Drew Lausch – a twisty story with an ending you won’t expect.

Once Upon A Wall Street by Jerry Topitzer – Jerry takes on the secret nature of the financial world with real wit. It’s sharp, funny, and surprisingly moving.

How to Poop in an Outhouse at 54 Below by Kona Morris – The title alone should be enough! Kona is a fearless storyteller who commits fully to the bit and takes you somewhere completely unexpected.

Stay by Sally Brooks – Sally’s work is deeply human and tells a beautiful story of how one unexpected act can change an entire life.

American Assholes: Escape to Edinburgh by Lauren LoGiudice – Lauren is one of the funniest people I know, and this is her at her best: irreverent, self-aware, and a total blast.

Duck by Sam Morrison – Sam is a brilliant performer with a sharp eye for the human in the comedy. A must see!

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