Coming to The Bread & Roses Theatre this April, Dear Cathy is an intimate, one-woman piece exploring infertility, grief, and would-be parenthood, with original music by Polo Piatti. We caught up with the writer for a quickfire Q&A on approaching such sensitive themes with honesty and bringing the story to life on stage.
The show deals with themes of profound and unimaginable loss. How have you approached telling this story with care and honesty?
As a writer, I am able to immerse myself in the experience of others, imagining what life is like for my characters, whatever they're going through.
How has the collaboration between the creative team shaped the piece we’ll see on stage?
The creative team have deepened the whole piece, from the way it looks to what it means.
The production features original music by Polo Piatti. How does the music support or deepen the emotional world of the play?
On occasion, the music can lead the action, significantly adding to the overall effect of the piece.
What has been the most rewarding or surprising part of the rehearsal and development process so far?
Most rewarding and most surprising is watching my words brought to life on stage.
Has the show presented any particular creative or emotional challenges during its development? How did the team navigate them?
The whole process here has been a creative and emotional challenge - difficult but exciting and rewarding.
What can audiences expect when they come to see Dear Cathy?
A true theatre experience.
Who do you think this show will resonate with most, and why?
I think the show will resonate most strongly with parents and would-be parents.
Looking beyond the April run, what’s next for Dear Cathy or for the team involved in the project?
The Edinburgh Fringe Festival!
Dear Cathy runs 21st - 25th April 2026, find out more and book here
The show deals with themes of profound and unimaginable loss. How have you approached telling this story with care and honesty?
As a writer, I am able to immerse myself in the experience of others, imagining what life is like for my characters, whatever they're going through.
How has the collaboration between the creative team shaped the piece we’ll see on stage?
The creative team have deepened the whole piece, from the way it looks to what it means.
The production features original music by Polo Piatti. How does the music support or deepen the emotional world of the play?
On occasion, the music can lead the action, significantly adding to the overall effect of the piece.
What has been the most rewarding or surprising part of the rehearsal and development process so far?
Most rewarding and most surprising is watching my words brought to life on stage.
Has the show presented any particular creative or emotional challenges during its development? How did the team navigate them?
The whole process here has been a creative and emotional challenge - difficult but exciting and rewarding.
What can audiences expect when they come to see Dear Cathy?
A true theatre experience.
Who do you think this show will resonate with most, and why?
I think the show will resonate most strongly with parents and would-be parents.
Looking beyond the April run, what’s next for Dear Cathy or for the team involved in the project?
The Edinburgh Fringe Festival!
Dear Cathy runs 21st - 25th April 2026, find out more and book here
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