Edinburgh Artist Interview: Eleanor Higgins from WANTED

As so many shows prepare for their trip to Scotland in August, I am so excited to launch my Edinburgh Fringe 2025 Artist Interview series. I'm hoping to share some amazing shows with you, as I chat to the artists who are working tirelessly behind the scenes to make them a reality! Today, I got the chance to chat to Eleanor Higgins from WANTED who talks about the nerves and excitement for the Fringe, a love for Julie Andrews and whether a Jaffa Cake is a cake of a biscuit.

Photo: Oviya Thirumalai

Since this interview, Eleanor Higgins has been nominated for a Popcorn Award! Congratulations!!

Without spoiling, what is your show about?

WANTED follows two women in the late noughties who, after being left wanting, and inspired by some really questionable icons in the form of Lindsay Lohan and Tony Soprano, begin wreaking revenge, particularly on men… It’s a story about female friendship, survival, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. It’s fast-paced, darkly funny, and rooted in emotional truth.

How did this show come to fruition?

It began as a way of exploring the idea of women as both victims and perpetrators of crime, and how women are so often let down by a social contract that’s just not set up to serve them. I wanted to look at the conditions that can lead someone to act out, particularly when they feel invisible or powerless. Over time, the piece grew into something more dynamic and layered: part character study, part crime caper, part moral provocation. I also think it’s pretty damn funny in parts, but happy to let audiences be the judge of that! 

Why do you think this show is an important one for audiences to see?

I want audiences to question easy ideas about guilt and innocence, especially when it comes to women who don’t fit a neat victim narrative. It challenges the idea that people are either good or bad, and instead offers a more human, complex story. It doesn’t ask for sympathy, rather curiosity! 

How are you feeling about performing at the Edinburgh Fringe?

A mixture of nerves and excitement. Bringing work to the Fringe is a huge commitment - emotionally, physically, and financially… but it also creates the rare opportunity to share your work with a wide, diverse audience. I’m so proud of the show and ready to give it everything.

What advice would you give somebody who wants to pursue a career in theatre?

Be proactive. Say yes to things that scare you, but also know your boundaries and when to say no. And remember that your voice is valid - even when the industry feels overwhelming or exclusive.

Is a Jaffa Cake a cake or a biscuit?

A cake in disguise - but it plays by biscuit rules.

If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would you invite?

Julie Andrews for ever. 

What song would represent your show?

It’s gotta be Release Me by Agnes! The Lindsay Lohan & Sam Ronson break up anthem. Readers of the late noughties Perez Hilton blog will know ;)

And finally, why should I buy a ticket to see your show?

Because it’s a gripping, emotionally charged story that asks difficult questions in an entertaining way. It will stay with you after you leave the theatre - not because it offers easy answers, but because it challenges the ones we often accept.

Ticket Information for WANTED:

WANTED runs at Belly Button at Underbelly Cowgate at 12:40PM each day as part of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival until the 24th of August. You can buy tickets here.