Interview: Emily Davis, “Escape the Rat Race”

26 May

Conducted by Emmie for Theatre and Tonic

As anticipation builds for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025, we’re catching up with a range of exciting creatives who are preparing to bring their work to the world’s largest arts festival this August. In this series, we dive into the stories behind the shows, the inspiration driving the artists, and what audiences can expect.

Today we’re joined by Emily Davis , who shares with us more about her show, Escape the Rat Race.

1. Can you begin by telling us about your show and what inspired it?

Escape the Rat Race is a one-woman musical comedy about a Welsh woman who climbs the corporate ladder in London — then has an existential crisis on a sailing trip. It’s inspired by my own journey from deadlines and desk jobs to discovering a love of sailing and a very different kind of freedom.

2. What made you want to bring this work to the Fringe this year?

I adore the Fringe — it’s full of people searching, shifting, questioning. This show speaks to anyone who’s ever asked “Is this it?” and I knew there’d be a home for that in Edinburgh.

3. How would you describe your show in three words?

Funny. Honest. Uplifting.

4. What do you hope audiences take away from watching your performance?

I hope they leave feeling lighter — and maybe a little braver about letting go of the things that don’t serve them. It’s a reminder that surrendering isn’t about giving up — it can mean moving forward.

5. What’s your top tip for surviving the Fringe?

Get out of the crowds whenever you need to. Go look at the sea and just breathe (you don’t have to see everything!)

6. Where and when can people see your show?

I’m on daily (except Tuesdays) at 2pm from 2–24 August at Carbon Lounge, Room 1, as part of PBH’s Free Fringe. Come laugh, cry, and maybe quit your job.