Earwig is a multi-award winning show exploring what it meant to be deaf in the early 20th century, set against the art deco decadence of the inter-war years. The third play by deaf actor and producer, Laura Crow, the show has toured to various locations across the UK including the Crewe Lyceum, Town & Gown, the Empty Space, and as part of the Library Presents and Applause rural touring schemes.


Marigold’s research into beetles is unparalleled but as a deaf woman in 1927, her work is ignored. Earwig combines the weird, wonderful world of entomology with Marigold’s fight to be heard amidst flappers, jazz and an overbearing husband. Funny and fast-paced new writing incorporating integrated BSL, mime, and illustrated projections in the style of 1920s silent movies!

Directed by Catherine Cowdrey and Samantha Vaughan, Earwig premiered at the Greater Manchester Fringe in July 2022 before transferring to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe for a full run at Assembly, Front Room.

“A deaf elegy for the hearing world, a clever self-validating work, where the deaf lead character (and theatre-maker) dissects and rejects the ableism of ‘trying to fix’ deaf people. What makes it a subtle work of genius, is that it is all wrapped up in a satisfying and authentic 1920’s domestic drama” – Neurodiverse Review

★★★★★ Fringe Biscuit
★★★★★ Neurodiverse Review 
★★★★★ Theatre & Arts Reviews
★★★★★ North West End
★★★★★ Theatre Weekly
★★★★★ Get Your Coats On
★★★★★ Broadway Baby
★★★★ Feminist Fringe
★★★★ Edfringereview
★★★★ Sinners Review
Highly Recommended by Fringe Review 
Offie Award Winner for Best Show of the Edinburgh Fringe
Winner of the Birds of Paradise Emerging Talent Award
Longlisted for the DeafAction Deaf Excellence Award