Lubna Kerr returns to the Edinburgh Fringe with Lunchbox, a powerful solo show exploring identity, bullying, and belonging through the eyes of two teenagers in Glasgow.
Following the success of Tickbox and Chatterbox, Lunchbox marks the final chapter in Kerr’s acclaimed trilogy, blending personal experience with sharp social commentary.
Lunchbox runs from 30 July to 24 August 2025 (excluding 12 & 19 August) at Pleasance Courtyard. Tickets are available here.
You’re bringing Lunchbox to Pleasance Courtyard – what can you tell us about the show?
Lunchbox describes the lives of two teenagers growing up in very different households in Glasgow. It shines a light on the nature vs nurture debate as well as choices vs expectations, and it asks questions that we are often too scared to ask.
Lunchbox is the final part of a trilogy following Tickbox and Chatterbox. How does this piece build on the themes explored in the earlier shows?
Tickbox, my first play, dealt with the themes of migration, identity, and racism as seen through the eyes of my parents. Chatterbox was about the labels we are given in childhood—like being called stupid—which I then converted into Chatterbox. It deals with discrimination and bullying.
Lunchbox takes these themes further, weaving them throughout the play. It adds another layer of intricacy and detail, especially around bullying, but this time through the eyes of Steven, the local bully. It examines the impact on Lubna, one of the recipients of his bullying, shedding light on life for these two adolescents.
You play multiple characters in the show, including two very different teenagers. What was the biggest challenge in bringing these roles to life?
I play up to eight characters, including my dad and Jeannie—two characters already seen in Chatterbox. There are new characters too, like Steven, his mum, and Granny Smith.
Trying to differentiate between all the female characters, especially those from similar backgrounds like Jeannie and Sandra, has been a challenge. I want to ensure the audience can distinguish them through my voice and body positioning. I’ve never had so many female characters in one play, so it’s been important to highlight not only their differences but also the nuances within each role.
The show tackles complex issues like bullying, identity, and belonging. What inspired you to explore these themes through the lens of a school setting?
It’s based on my own life experiences. They say, “Write what you know!” I keep getting asked, “Where are you from?”—and I never know if they mean ethnically (Pakistan) or where I grew up (Glasgow). So identity has always been a recurring theme for me.
When we move from primary to secondary school, there’s a shift in belonging. Do we stick with our old friends and bullies, or do we find a new place to belong? Bullying happens throughout life. As adults, we can rationalise it, but as children, it can feel like we’re the only ones going through it.
I wanted to show children and their parents that bullying is more common than they might think, and to highlight the importance of talking about these issues. It’s a topic that’s just as relevant now as it was when I was growing up.
How have audiences responded to the personal and cultural elements woven into your storytelling?
They love it. Caucasian audiences are educated and find it fascinating. Asian audiences sit there nodding and smiling with happiness that their story is finally being told and heard.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see Lunchbox?
Bring your family and use it as a starting point to initiate conversations about bullying at school. Be ready to share your own experiences with family and friends. Reflect on your relationships—and think about someone who could use your help.
