Controversial Play ‘TERF’ Ignites Debate at Edinburgh Fringe
In an unprecedented turn of events at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, a controversial play provocatively titled ‘TERF’ has captured the attention and ire of audiences and critics alike. The production, which imagines an intervention by the stars of the Harry Potter film series to address author JK Rowling’s contentious gender-critical views, has sparked heated debates, death threats, and online trolling.
Barry Church-Woods, the producer of ‘TERF’, shared with Sky News the disturbing backlash faced by the production team. “It’s been heartbreaking,” he said. “A lot of people have made assumptions about the show just because of its title. We’ve received death threats, and my mother has been targeted on social media.”
The term TERF, an acronym for Trans-Exclusionary Radical Feminist, has become a contentious label in gender discussions. Church-Woods explained that it was chosen to reflect a specific moment when Rowling’s gender-critical tweets gained global attention. “There’s a point in the show where this phrase trends, capturing a moment in time. The title is no different from an album named after a significant lyric.”
Despite the fierce criticism and threats, ‘TERF’ remains one of the most anticipated shows at the Fringe. Church-Woods admitted the pressure is immense. “It’s terrifying because it elevates the show from being just a Fringe piece to something much more significant. But it’s a privilege to be part of a festival with 3,500 shows and to have people talking about us.”
The controversy surrounding the play has also led to logistical challenges. Due to the threat of protests, the play had to move venues to the Assembly Rooms, which offers the necessary security to protect the cast and crew. “We feel secure, but we’re keeping an eye on the situation,” Church-Woods assured.
Interestingly, the script was sent to Rowling’s team, though it’s unclear if she has read it. While Church-Woods would love Rowling to attend for the publicity, he personally doesn’t wish to meet her. “I think she’s quite funny and dry. She might actually enjoy the play.”
American actress Laura Kay Bailey, who portrays Rowling, expressed excitement about the play’s potential impact. “It’s thrilling to be part of a show that could shift perspectives on a divisive topic. Capturing Rowling’s essence rather than impersonating her is key.”
Bailey encouraged critics to watch the show before forming an opinion. “It’s not a hit piece. The writer, Josh Kaplan, has strived for balance, showcasing Rowling’s evolution as a public figure and her beliefs.”
Australian actress Trelawny Kean, who plays Emma Watson, acknowledged the buzz and controversy. “It’s intimidating but exciting. If protests happen, we’re prepared. The show is a conversation about a very divisive topic, using familiar figures to explore it.”
Rowling’s representatives have declined to comment on the controversial play. Meanwhile, the conversation about ‘TERF’ and its provocative subject matter continues to stir emotions and debate at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
