Who the heck is Tara?
Hey there! My name's Tara. I'm an actor, comic, wife and mum. I've been up to a few things over the last few years, including performing at some great comedy venues, directing the five star sell out show 'NewsRevue', working with amazing writers like Fay Weldon, and actors like Nicole Kidman, and most recently/importantly, being a full time mum to two beautiful boys. Something I've always dreamt of doing was taking my own show to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and now we are making that dream a reality. I've been testing out material on my children, as well as audiences made up of adult humans.. and they've been laughing, which is a great sign. I have confirmed Just The Tonic as the venue, which is one of the best comedy venues at the Edinburgh Fringe, and I also have previews booked in for Brighton Festival, the Oxford Comedy Festival, Hungerford Summer Arts Festival as well as venues in London and Guilford.
What this show means to me
This show means a lot to me because it's not just about making people laugh, it's also about bringing people together and breaking down stigma. Yes there are jokes about group pelvic floor exercises and googling how to change a nappy, but I also touch on some heavier topics. I had three miscarriages before our first son was conceived, and during that time my husband and I felt completely heartbroken and very alone. I had no idea how common miscarriages are, because no one talks about them. I also didn't realise that it was possible to be lonely as a new parent, or how isolated women with post natal depression could feel. So as a way of getting people to open up more, I decided to write some jokes about it! Oh great, miscarriage and loneliness jokes.. Sounds like a really fun show.. Honestly though, in this social media driven, genuine-connection-starved world, now more than ever we need a supportive and understanding community - for parents, people who want to be parents, and even people who never want to be parents because they really can't stand kids.
What your support can do
Regardless of whether we get extra funding, this show is going to Edinburgh Fringe Festival (I've signed contracts, and if I don't go through with it, I believe I go to contract jail?). But with your support, it can not only 'happen' - it can actually be successful! A huge part of getting people through the door, getting articles written, and getting that book tour is marketing! And marketing is expensive.. That's on top of accommodation (couch surfing is not an option with two babies.. they're super demanding), the venue guarantee, poster design, travel costs.. it's a long list. So any donation or help is very much appreciated!
What sponsorship will go towards:
- Technical overheads for the month
- Ed Fringe venue hire for the month
- Marketing & PR
- Poster/Flyer design & printing
- Accommodation & travel
Other ways you can help
I realise not everyone has cash to spare so it's no worries at all if you can't donate - but if instead you could help support the show by spreading the word, sharing this with someone who might be interested, posting about the show on social media, telling your grandma etc. then I would be so so grateful. Regardless of what you do, THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU! I really appreciate it.
For more information about me or the show please go to: www.taranewtonwordsworth.com
Or you can check out my social pages: