Edinburgh Fringe Chats (#77): Leila Navabi, RELAY

As anticipation builds for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025, we’re catching up with a range of exciting creatives preparing to bring their work to the world’s largest arts festival this August. In this series, we delve into the stories behind the shows, the inspiration driving the artists, and what audiences can expect.  Today, we’re joined by Leila Navabi to chat more about their show, Relay.

01.  Can you begin by telling us about your show and what inspired it?

My show is an original punk musical comedy based on the true story of how my partner and I made a baby using our gay best friend's sperm in our flat. It was inspired by this being a slightly strange predicament to find ourselves in.

02.  What made you want to bring this work to the Fringe this year?

I think the current political climate means we are crying out for joyful, hopeful and fun queer stories. I wanted to share our big gay triumph (the only way we will be referring to our baby from now on) with anyone who might benefit from and enjoy the story. 

03.  How would you describe your show in three words?

Punk, queer, anarchy. 

04.  What do you hope audiences take away from watching your performance?

I hope they feel optimistic at a time where it's quite hard to! And I very much hope they take away a few earworms thanks to my KEYTAR!

05.  What’s your top tip for surviving the Fringe?

Treat it like a food festival. There is SO much good food. Use that to heal you! 

06.  Where and when can people see your show?

At Pleasance Courtyard - Beside, 15:35 every day of the festival apart from the 12th (because I will be hiding from Oasis on this day).

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