Sad Girl Songs is a musical comedy performed by Gwen Coburn at the Edinburgh Fringe 2025. The show combines humor with personal storytelling to examine issues related to gender violence, trauma, and the lasting effects of abusive relationships. Drawing from Coburn’s own experience with an abusive affair involving her improv teacher, the narrative reveals the ongoing impact on mental health and professional life. The work also intertwines ancient mythology, such as Medusa’s story, with modern concerns like victim blaming and workplace power dynamics.
Paul Levy chatted with Gwen in a noisy Edinburgh Cafe about the origin of the show and her approach to making work at the Fringe.
The performance features satirical and autobiographical songs created from real-life elements, including adaptations of Bumble dating profiles into musical form. Coburn describes the piece as a dark feminist comedy that engages with the improvisational comedy culture alongside contemporary discussions around the #MeToo movement. Its intention is to be both entertaining and thought-provoking, addressing complex topics such as post-traumatic stress disorder openly but with humor.
Critics have noted the show’s blunt honesty and sharp wit, recognizing the way it balances difficult subject matter with moments of laughter that encourage audience empathy rather than avoidance. In this interview, Gwen discusses how her songs are both funny but also prepared to take these important issues head on.
Originating in North America, Sad Girl Songs earned accolades such as Best Musical at the Winnipeg Fringe. The 2025 Edinburgh Fringe marks its first presentation in the UK, with accommodations made to enhance accessibility. The show confronts challenging material while fostering a reflective dialogue on gendered trauma through music and comedy.
