Cheshire writer performs 'emotional' show at Edinburgh Fringe

Lisa O’Hare has always loved reading, writing and learning little poems.

Now, at the tender age of 47, she is finally fulfilling a childhood dream.

This weekend, she will be performing ‘Do You Remember The First Rhyme?, as she makes her debut at the Edinburgh Fringe, from August 11-13.

Lisa has captured her return to creativity after 20 years in the corporate world, in an evening of poems and personal memories.

Every story she tells is true.

“People seem to love it,” said Lisa, from Wilmslow.

“They say it’s heartwarming, funny and emotional.”

Lisa O'Hare loves performing on stage (Image: Supplied)

Lisa only decided to rekindle her desire to perform on stage when she was made redundant.

“I’ve been to comedy shows all my life, always with a secret wish to be more than part of the audience,” said Lisa, who toured a play at primary school and performed on stage at university.

“In 2019, I was made redundant so I took time out to work out what to do next.

“I came up with wild ideas and one of them was that I wanted to do a fringe show.

“I thought I’d have a go and since then, I’ve never looked back.”

To book tickets for Lisa's show visit edinburgh.justthetonic.com/event/88:3812/https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/do-you-remember-the-first-rhyme

With grit and determination, Lisa started writing and performing four years ago.

Her work has featured on BBC Upload, BBC Radio Manchester and on stage at various fringe festivals, including Greater Manchester, Camden and Morecambe.

“It all came tumbling out,” said Lisa. “I did scratch nights for script writers and poetry nights.

Lisa O'Hare weaves poetry with stories (Image: Supplied)

“I was nervous but I met so many people, I’ve learnt so much.

“It builds up your confidence. You don’t have to be perfect, you can practice.”

Lisa is overwhelmed to have received glowing feedback from audiences and professionals.

One review described her show as 'stunningly good'.

Another said it was 'imaginative, heartfelt, raw and polished, funny and sobering, and a very real story'.

Lisa said: “It’s an experience I couldn’t have dreamt of.

“My show is a mixture of stories, funny and emotional.

“Performing is a hobby and passion for me, I want to share it.

“It has taken me so long to find something I love.

“I’d encourage everyone to hold onto their dreams.”

Lisa will be performing at the Edinburgh Fringe on August 11, 12 and 13 at 10pm with Just the Tonic at The Little Kirk.