Saving Myself - Brighton Fringe 26

Brighton Fringe is back, and as usual, the programme is packed with new work. One of the productions catching my eye this year is Saving Myself, a solo drama written by Tim Stubbs Hughes. It is scheduled to be performed at The Lantern Theatre on 2 May 2026. If you are looking for something that leans into darker, more complex themes, this might be one to keep on your radar.

The story centres on a character named Lilly. From what I have gathered about the production, the narrative follows her journey from childhood, where she was often blamed for various negative events at home, through to a violent assault that acts as a breaking point. The play explores how she attempts to reclaim control over her own body and history, dealing with themes of trauma, poetry, and myth. It is described as a visceral piece that moves between reality and ritual, often incorporating dark humour to navigate these heavy subjects.

This production marks the writing debut of Tim Stubbs Hughes and is directed by Julia Stubbs. It is being brought to the stage by 20 South Street in association with Grey Swan. It sounds like a fairly intense, character-driven piece, playing out in real-time, which often makes for a different kind of theatre experience compared to more traditional storytelling. Given the venue and the nature of the Fringe, it is the kind of show that relies heavily on the performance itself to bridge that gap between the audience and the character's internal struggle.