In our ongoing Edinburgh Fringe 2026 interview series, we are speaking to artists and creatives who are bringing their shows to the Scottish capital this summer.
In this interview, we speak with Daf Hughes, the writer of the book, lyrics and music, to learn more about the new musical GIRLZ.
What can you tell me about your show?
It’s a brand-new Musical which follows a dramatic year in the life of a brand new 5-piece girl band; GIRLZ. As well at the five girls, we meet their manager, the super slick Dan Cashman, and Adam, the musician boyfriend of Nicky, one of the Girlz. It’s a story with lots of twists and turns, lots of highs and lows, and plenty of laughs.
It’s a brand-new Musical which follows a dramatic year in the life of a brand new 5-piece girl band; GIRLZ. As well at the five girls, we meet their manager, the super slick Dan Cashman, and Adam, the musician boyfriend of Nicky, one of the Girlz. It’s a story with lots of twists and turns, lots of highs and lows, and plenty of laughs.
How would you describe the style of your show to anyone who has never seen you before?
It’s a very fast-moving story which starts with some quite traditional Musical Theatre elements. However, as it moves forward, I hope it takes you in some unexpected directions, both in terms of its story and in terms of its theatrical style. There are also sequences where it feels like a banging pop show!
What was the lightbulb moment that led to the creation of this piece?
I wanted to write something for a mainly young female cast. I also wanted to write a show about contrasting kinds of ‘pop’ music. So, I guess the pivotal thought was struggling ‘serious’ singer-songwriter and his successful ‘pop-star’ girlfriend and the tensions that would arise from that.
What makes 2026 the perfect year for this story?
The story deals with many important current issues including; mental health, toxic masculinity, on-line hate and the financial inequality within the music industry.
How will you mentally and physically prepare for your run at the Fringe?
In truth, most of the stressful and challenging things about bringing the show to the Fringe happen in the 2/3 months leading up to it. The get-in and technical rehearsals can be quite stressful, but once you are up-and-running then as long as the cast and crew remain fit and healthy then the whole experience is utterly joyful. It’s the prospect of this that gets you through to all the stressful lead up to the Fringe. We are lucky that we have a ‘matinee’ slot, so after the show we can switch and go and see loads of other great things. Seeing so many other fantastic shows and performers just charges your batteries. And with a 2.25pm start we can allow ourselves bit of a lie in if we need it!
What is the one item in your Fringe Survival Kit that you can’t live without?
Deodorant.
What would you deem as success at the end of the Fringe?
Finding and producer who wants to develop the show commercially.
Other than your own show are there any other shows you would recommend at the fringe this year?
Aiden Jones – Chopin’s Nocturne. The funniest thing I saw last year and it’s back.
What is the one Edinburgh Spot you would recommend people visit when they’re not watching performances?
Obviously! Arthur’s seat
Can you describe the show in 5 words?
Fast funny sad twisting story
What keeps you inspired?
The amount of incredible performing talent this country produces.
What would you hope someone takes away from seeing the show?
A desire to see it again!
When and where can people see the show?
Doonstairs in Gilded Balloon’s PATTER HOUSE . 2.25pm-3.30pm August 5-30
Doonstairs in Gilded Balloon’s PATTER HOUSE . 2.25pm-3.30pm August 5-30
You can find out more about GIRLZ on their website https://www.girlzmusical.com/
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