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Fleabag


Synopsis


Critics' Circle Award for Most Promising Playwright - 2013

Edinburgh Fringe First Award - 2013

Celebrate the incredible journey of Phoebe Waller-Bridge's outrageously funny, blazingly forthright Fleabag, from fringe theatre hit to international cultural phenomenon, in this special edition – featuring the original playscript, never-before-seen colour photos, and exclusive bonus content by Phoebe, director Vicky Jones and key members of the creative team.

In 2013, Fleabag made its debut as a one-woman show in sixty-seater venue the Big Belly, at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe's Underbelly. It was an immediate hit, going on to enjoy two runs at London's Soho Theatre, national and international tours, whilst picking up prizes including Critics' Circle, The Stage, Fringe First and two Off West End Theatre Awards, plus an Olivier Award nomination.

The 2016 TV adaptation propelled Fleabag and Phoebe to worldwide fame, earning critical acclaim and further accolades including Writers' Guild, Royal Television Society and BAFTA Television Awards. A second series, nominated for eleven Emmys, followed in 2019, along with a sold-out run of the original play in New York.

This special edition is released alongside Fleabag's first West End run at Wyndham's Theatre, London. It is introduced by Deborah Frances-White, stand-up comedian, writer and host of The Guilty Feminist podcast.

Summary

Chapter 1

* Summary: Fleabag, a young woman in London, grapples with the recent loss of her best friend, Boo. She attends a therapy session and meets Hot Priest, a handsome and enigmatic clergyman.
* Real Example: "I haven't exactly been myself since I accidentally killed my best friend in a skiing accident. They tell me it wasn't my fault, but I'm not sure I believe them. I'm trying to move on, but it's not easy. I keep having flashbacks to that day. I see her face, I hear her laugh..."

Chapter 2

* Summary: Fleabag's stepmother, Hilary, tries to set her up with Martin, a wealthy and boring businessman. Fleabag resists at first, but eventually agrees to a date out of desperation.
* Real Example: "Hilary: 'Darling, I know you're not in the mood for this, but I really think Martin is perfect for you. He's kind, he's successful, he'd make a wonderful father.' Fleabag: 'I'm not looking for a father, Hilary. I'm looking for someone who makes me laugh.'"

Chapter 3

* Summary: Fleabag's cafe is failing, and she struggles to keep it afloat. She contemplates selling it, but ultimately decides against it, determined to make it work.
* Real Example: "I love my cafe. It's the only thing I have left of Boo. I know it's not making any money, but I can't bear the thought of selling it. It's my sanctuary, my safe haven. I just need to find a way to make it work."

Chapter 4

* Summary: Fleabag's relationship with Hot Priest deepens, but she is hesitant to trust him. She discovers that he is also struggling with his own demons.
* Real Example: "I'm drawn to Hot Priest. He's so kind and compassionate, but I also sense a darkness in him. I can see the pain in his eyes. I want to help him, but I don't know if I can. I'm not sure if I can trust him."

Chapter 5

* Summary: Fleabag's stepmother's wedding day arrives, and she is unhappy to see her father marrying Hilary. She also learns that her sister, Claire, is pregnant.
* Real Example: "I hate Hilary. She's a cold, calculating witch. I can't believe my father married her. And now Claire's pregnant? I'm going to be an aunt? I don't know how to feel about that. I'm happy for Claire, but I'm also a little bit jealous."

Chapter 6

* Summary: Fleabag's cafe is robbed, and she is devastated. She reports the crime to Hot Priest, who offers his support.
* Real Example: "I can't believe it. They robbed my cafe. They took everything. I'm ruined. Hot Priest came to my rescue. He held me while I cried. He told me it was going to be okay. But I don't know if it will be."

Chapter 7

* Summary: Fleabag confronts her father about his betrayal with Hilary, and they have a heated argument. She also admits her feelings for Hot Priest.
* Real Example: "I can't take it anymore, Dad. I can't bear to see you with Hilary. She's not good for you. And I love Hot Priest. I know I shouldn't, but I can't help it."

Chapter 8

* Summary: Hot Priest confesses his feelings for Fleabag, but they both know that their relationship is forbidden. They agree to keep their distance.
* Real Example: "I love you, Fleabag. But I can't be with you. I'm a priest. It would be wrong." Fleabag: "I know. But I can't stop loving you."

Chapter 9

* Summary: Fleabag's stepmother's wedding reception turns into a disaster, and Fleabag takes revenge on Hilary by revealing her affair with Claire's husband.
* Real Example: "I'm so sorry, Claire. I didn't mean to tell you like this. But I couldn't keep it a secret anymore. Your husband had an affair with Hilary."

Chapter 10

* Summary: Fleabag makes a decision to start living her life on her own terms. She quits her cafe and starts a new job as a secretary. She also reconnects with her sister and vows to rebuild her relationships.
* Real Example: "I'm done. I'm done with all of this. I'm done with being a victim. I'm done with letting other people control my life. I'm going to start over. I'm going to find a new job, I'm going to reconnect with my sister, and I'm going to be happy. For once in my life, I'm going to put myself first."