Next in our series of chatting to creatives and casts of Edinburgh Fringe 2026, we catch up with Kathryn Mincer who tells us all about Gridlock. ”This is a one-act play about a couple at a crossroads. They are stuck in traffic – both literally and figuratively. As Alexa and Thomas wait for the traffic to subside, they start reminiscing on moments that shaped their relationship, ultimately trying to answer the questions: how did we get here and where are we going?”
How would you describe your show to someone discovering it for the first time at the Fringe?
Gridlock is an intimate two-hander show about a couple that are stuck in traffic, and they begin reminiscing about key points in their relationship as they try to decide whether they should stay together or not.
What moment, idea or frustration first sparked this show into existence?
This is actually based off a script that our lead actress, Annika Foster, brought to us. It was raw, full of emotional arcs, and it resonated with all of us when it came to experiences with relationships.
How has the show evolved from its earliest idea to what audiences will see now?
We had Annika’s script at the beginning, but had to adapt it from a feature film into a Fringe show. I took the piece down to it’s bare bones and rebuilt it as a one-act play.
What makes Edinburgh Fringe the right place for this show right now?
Gridlock is a show that thrives off an intimate environment and audiences who are willing to watch an unknown production. The Fringe is the ideal place for both of those factors.
What does bringing this particular show to the Fringe represent for you personally?
It means so much to all of us. For most of us, this is our first time performing at the Fringe! And each cast and crew member is so excited to bring the show to life.
What has been the most unexpectedly challenging part of getting this show to Edinburgh?
Mainly the set design, we have a smaller stage, but we really wanted to bring car seats on stage. Maider Uranga has been wonderful as our set designer, building a portable set that can be wheeled on and off for a quick changeover!
If audiences leave the venue holding onto one thing, what do you hope it is?
That they are not difficult to love, sometimes people just don’t know how to love you the way that you are needed.
How do you think performing this show during a Fringe run will shape it?
The show has changes even since first previews, so I have no doubt that it will continue to change and develop over the Fringe as each show will bring out another aspect of the piece.
Who do you hope this show finds at the Fringe?
This is a show for people who are in love, have been in love, and can relate to having a difficult conversation that you cannot get out of.
Finally, if this show came with a warning label, what would it say?
The one thing we found with previews is that a lot of couples were nudging their partners in the audience whilst Annika and Ibrahim’s characters were arguing. So, be prepared to see yourselves (and possibly your relationships) in our characters!
Gridlock runs at The Edinburgh Festival Fringe from 5th – 17th August 2026.