Interview: Josephine Lacey, Autism Mama

Ahead of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2024 we’re chatting with a range of creatives who will be heading to the city over August to find out more about their shows. Today we’re chatting with Josephine Lacey about their piece Autism Mama.

Can you tell us a bit about you and your career so far..

I did my first stand-up gig on the 26th October 2008 after completing a 6 week stand-up course with The Comedy School, Camden. The course ended in a showcase where we performed in front of a friendly audience of friends and family. I was 40 years old.

In 2010 I decided I wanted to make stand-up comedy my career. I drew a lot from my Jamaican-Irish heritage and motherhood. 

What is your show about?

My show is primarily about a mothers love and what I was prepared to do to support my autistic son through the difficult process of puberty with some of the challenges he faced.

What was the inspiration for Autism Mama and what’s the development process been to get to this stage?

My son was the inspiration for the show. As it's a true tale, the process was about taking the experience and injecting humour whilst keeping it real and inspirational. I did this by doing as many work in progress shows as I needed to.

What made you want to take Autism Mama to the Fringe?

Whilst it's a comedy show, I know our experience can help and educate others. Knowing I could take it to the Fringe and perform it daily for a month to audiences excited me no end. 

Apart from seeing Autism Mama, what’s your top tip for anybody heading for Edinburgh this summer?

If you're in Edinburgh this summer, you can't get bored! There is something for everyone. Check out edfringe.com or get a free copy of Unleash your Fringe programme 2024 and plan your daily viewings. Don't forget to collect your flyers whilst out and about taking in the beautiful city of Edinburgh. 

Why should people book Autism Mama?

Autism Mama is a stand alone comedy show. It's funny, heartfelt and inspirational. It's about a tale I know none of my friends, family or audiences so far have experienced themselves. It's a story that I want to share.

When and where can people see Autism Mama?

You can see Autism Mama daily at the Pleasance Courtyard Bunker 3 at 6pm from the 31st July to the 25th of August (not the 12th or 22nd).