David Ian Neville picks three shows to see at the Edinburgh Fringe this summer

LOTTIE WALKER: CHOPPED LIVER AND UNIONS

Lottie Walker’s grandfather was born in London’s Stepney and Walker was brought up in the East End. She may or may not have Jewish ancestors, she doesn’t know. What she does know is that there are unsung women in history whose voices should be heard. Lottie’s latest production, Chopped Liver and Unions tells the story of Sara Wesker, who, in 1928, led women from the East End garment industry in a 12-week strike. Sara also fought at the battle of Cable Street, set up the United Clothing Workers Union and was an activist for workers and women’s rights all her life. She was also Arnold Wesker’s aunt and is thought to be the inspiration for his play, Chicken Soup with Barley.

DANIEL CAINER: DANIEL CAINER’S JEWISH CHRONICLES

Singer-songwriter Daniel Cainer brought his first musical show, The Surbiton Washerama, to the Fringe in 2005. Its main song told the story of his father’s affair, largely carried out when doing the weekly laundry, while Daniel and his brothers were at cheder. During the show’s run, Edinburgh Synagogue held its first open day and Cainer performed this song and others there to an enthusiastic reception from the 100-plus, largely Jewish audience. That Open Day was his first visit to a synagogue in years. It set him on a journey to explore his identity and uncover Jewish life and history through humorous, and sometimes melancholy, songs, many of which make up his latest Chronicles show.

EVE LEIGH: SALTY IRINa

In the face of evil do we stand by or take action? Eve Leigh’s new play, Salty Irina, explores what happens when two people put themselves in danger for what they believe to be right. Anna and Eireni are students in the throes of young love. Following a racist murder in their town, they infiltrate a far-right festival to identify the culprits. But when the nature of their relationship is uncovered, their safety is under threat. The play was shortlisted for the prestigious Bruntwood Prize 2019 but this will be the first time it has been performed. Leigh found her route into playwrighting through the Royal Court and, while her plays don’t necessarily deal with Jewish issues, her interest in Jewish philosophy informs her work.

By David Ian Neville

Lottie Walker and Daniel Cainer will be performing at the Edinburgh Hebrew Congregation & Edinburgh Jewish Cultural Centre Festival Open Day on Sunday 13 August, 12.30-3.30pm. For further info, visit edfringe.com.

This article appears in the Summer 2023 issue of JR.