If you reviewed your own show, how would you describe it?
I’d describe CRUSH as a romcom about two teenagers who meet in an eating disorder clinic.
Najma has been there for years and Zakariya is just starting out. On paper, it’s probably the last place you’d expect two people to fall for each other, but they end up connecting through their shared experiences, creativity, and being Black, Somali and Muslim in that space.
Tell me a little more about your show and what audiences can expect?
Audiences can expect a two-hander romcom with a lot of heart.
Yes, it explores eating disorders, grief and mental health, but it’s also about first crushes, making each other laugh, awkward conversations and those little moments where you slowly start letting someone in.
The play tackles some heavy themes but at its core it’s really lighthearted and full of hope.
Can you talk about some of the creative team involved?
I wrote Crush and I’m also performing in it as Najma alongside Mohamed Hashi, who plays Zakariya.
The show is directed by Alena Sahota and it’s been amazing having both of their perspectives in the room. Because it’s just two characters on stage, every little moment between them matters, so it’s been really lovely discovering Najma and Zakariya’s relationship together.
Where do you draw inspiration from for your work, both in terms of creation and performance?
I’m always at the theatre. I love watching different shows and seeing the way people tell stories, whether that’s through writing, direction or performance.
I also draw a lot from real life. I had an eating disorder as a teenager, so I was able to draw from my own experiences and put a lot of truth into Najma’s story.
Looking at this production, how would you say it links to previous work personally and thematically?
I think I’m always drawn to characters who are searching for connection.
A lot of my writing explores identity, mental health and what it means to find your place in the world. But I also really love finding humour in difficult moments because that feels the most real to me. Even during the hardest times, people still joke, laugh and find little moments of joy.
Why is this an important story to tell?
Because people like Najma and Zakariya exist.
Eating disorders are often shown through such a narrow lens and I wanted to tell a story about two Black Muslim teenagers navigating that experience. Growing up, I never really saw stories like this, so I hope someone watches Crush and feels a little less alone.
I also hope the play helps start more conversations around eating disorders and breaks down some of the stigma that still exists. We’re currently speaking with a few mental health charities about ways we can support and signpost audiences because it’s important that the conversation doesn’t just end when people leave the theatre.
What would you like audiences to take away from seeing this production at the Fringe?
I hope people leave feeling like they’ve met two real people.
I want audiences to leave with hope. The show deals with difficult things, but it’s also about love, friendship and the people who help you through.
Do you tend to take inspiration from events happening in the world around you in terms of your work? Do you think artists have a responsibility to respond to what’s happening?
I think you naturally write from the world around you. The things you notice, the conversations you have and the things you care about always find a way into your work.
I don’t think every artist has to respond in the same way, but I do think storytelling is such a powerful way to make people feel seen and understood.
What do you do to relax in August?
Ask me again after Fringe haha.
Hopefully watching lots of shows, meeting other artists, having fun and remembering to sleep!
How do you feel about the current arts landscape in your country and your part in it? Does it excite you and inspire you to keep pushing the boat out?
It’s exciting seeing more artists telling stories from perspectives we haven’t always seen on stage.
There’s still a lot more work to do, but it’s really encouraging to see audiences connect with stories that are specific and personal.
Fringe is also super inaccessible, and I don’t think I realised just how much everything costs until I started this journey. But it’s also been so beautiful seeing how many Somalis are coming to Edinburgh to watch our play. It’s really special to remind our community that we belong in these spaces too.
Why are arts festivals such as the Fringe so important for international exchange?
You get to experience so many different stories and perspectives in one place.
That’s the amazing thing about theatre. Someone’s story can be completely different from yours, but you can still find something in it that you relate to. It can also be super inspiring too.
What can the wider arts community do to get more people involved in their specific disciplines?
Make people feel like they belong.
A lot of people don’t engage with theatre because they feel like it isn’t made for them. The more we remove those barriers and support new voices, the more exciting the work becomes.
I didn’t go to drama school, my training came through places like National Youth Theatre and Bush Young Company. Those opportunities gave me a way in and helped me find my voice as an artist.
I think we need more initiatives like that, spaces where people can learn, create and get their foot in the door. Talent is everywhere but opportunity isn’t always accessible.
Have you got your eye on any other shows that are part of the programme?
There are honestly so many. I’m excited to discover new work, especially shows I know nothing about beforehand and discover some hidden gems. That’s one of the best things about Fringe.
My best friend Maryam Garad is also going to Fringe with her show Reparations at the Pleasance, so I’ll definitely be watching that multiple times!
What’s next for you and how are you feeling about the future in general?
At the moment, I’m focused on bringing Crush to Fringe and giving the show the best possible life.
After that, I’d love to keep writing, performing and telling stories that feel personal and meaningful to me.
How can Edinburgh audiences keep up with you beyond the festival?
Follow me on socials to keep up with Crush and whatever comes next.
Follow @crushtheplay on Instagram and TikTok
Anything else?
Come see CRUSH. Bring your friends, bring tissues, but also be ready to laugh!
CRUSH, Underbelly Bristo Square, 5-30 August (not 17), 3.55pm